ST ANN, Jamaica — Twenty residents from Chalky Hill and Steer Town in St Ann have benefitted from a job readiness workshop hosted by the Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA) in partnership with the Sandals Foundation.

The workshop, which was a concerted effort to uplift communities and provide tangible pathways to employment, catered to individuals aged 18 to 29 years old, with a high level of unemployment and large family size.

Research Associate at VPA, Jonelle Llewellyn emphasised the workshop’s pivotal role in equipping participants with fundamental skills essential for navigating the job market.

“The workshop was designed to arm participants with essential tools for success in the workforce,” Llewellyn said. “We focused on key areas such as resume writing, cover letter composition, and interview preparation, providing participants with the confidence and proficiency needed to seize employment opportunities.”

The workshop comprised a comprehensive curriculum, encompassing various interactive activities aimed at fostering personal growth and professional development. Participants engaged in reflection activities, allowing them to reflect on their personal experiences and aspirations.

Additionally, they undertook a self-assessment exercise, identifying individual strengths and challenges, which served as a foundation for personalised skill enhancement.

Participants gained insights into the importance of interpersonal interactions and work ethics, vital attributes for thriving in diverse professional settings.

Reflecting on the workshop’s impact, participants expressed gratitude for the invaluable knowledge and support they received. Many highlighted the newfound confidence and clarity they attained, enabling them to approach job hunting with renewed vigour and optimism.

Llewellyn said the collaborative effort between VPA and the Sandals Foundation underscores a commitment to empowering communities and fostering sustainable socio-economic growth.

She noted that by equipping residents with the requisite skills and resources, initiatives like these serve as catalysts for positive change, paving the way for a brighter future for all.

“As communities continue to benefit from such initiatives, the ripple effects of empowerment and opportunity are poised to create lasting transformation, enriching the lives of individuals and strengthening the fabric of society as a whole,” Llewellyn said.