MAINTAINING the momentum of upskilling underserved youth, Desnoes and Geddes (D&G) Foundation, in partnership with Project STAR and DECS Management and Logistics Services Limited, has successfully trained a second cohort of forklift operators.

The 19 participants in the latest training course were celebrated during a graduation ceremony on Tuesday, having completed an intensive programme, which included two weeks of training and a 20-day paid internship.

“Sometimes, all we need is someone to believe in us, a chance to start anew. Let this opportunity be your momentum. Contribute to your organisations, move up, and choose your career path based on your growth and learning,” said Sydney Thwaites, president of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), during his keynote address at the graduation ceremony.

“Our unemployment rate might be low, but many people remain on the fringes, unable to enter the workforce. So I extend my deepest appreciation and congratulations to the D&G Foundation, DECs, and Project STAR teams. The JMEA and our member companies are eager to partner with you.

“To our graduates, congratulations, you have learned valuable skills that go beyond just operating a forklift. On behalf of over 500 companies, I express our collective pride in your achievements. I look forward to expanding this initiative and exploring similar programmes for other skills,” added Thwaites.

Responding for graduates, Diandra McKenzie said, “We are young people with the opportunity to understand what it means to stay alive and thrive, truly.”

Diandra added: “I am proud to be a part of this programme. About three months ago, we each received a call to join a quarterly training programme, which was one of my life’s best experiences. The programme was designed to fully prepare us, and upon successful completion we will face many companies, ready to take on new opportunities.”

In addition to certifying new trainees, the ceremony recognised exceptional achievements, with McKenzie honoured as the most outstanding student, Geovaughie Robinson received the most improved award, and Leonardo Fletcher was distinguished with the Apex Civic Award.

“This opportunity has been invaluable for all of us. Despite the challenges I faced while travelling from Clarendon to Kingston, I remained committed and made the most of every moment.

“My colleagues share the same sentiment and are equally excited about the future. We’re all eagerly anticipating new opportunities and full-time employment,” said Fletcher.

With the addition of the latest graduates, the programme has seen the certification of 40 forklift operators since its launch one year ago.

“We have witnessed the transformative journey of these students. Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to honing their skills, they have all emerged as certified forklift operators and as a beacon of inspiration for their communities.

“The manufacturing sector is undeniably a driving force behind Jamaica’s economic growth, but it faces its fair share of challenges. One such challenge that garnered significant attention is the shortage of certified forklift operators. However, through our partnership with Project STAR and DECS Management and Logistics Services Limited, we have addressed this shortage and created sustainable socio-economic opportunities for underserved youth,” said D&G Foundation accountant Dennis Beckford.