My Brother's Workshop 2023 Graduates. Photo Credit: MBW
In a heartening celebration at St. Thomas Reformed Church, 24 trainees graduated from My Brother’s Workshop with certifications in a range of fields including Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Carpentry, Welding, Marine and CNC Machine Shop, the nonprofit has announced.
The organization aims to tackle youth crime and violence in the area through initiatives such as mentoring, counseling, education, and job training and placement.
The ceremony was attended by a proud mix of family, friends, dignitaries, volunteers, MBW board, committee, and staff members, as well as supporters of the graduates. Opening the ceremony was a rendition of "Pomp and Circumstance," performed by the Eljhaie Brathwaite Project. MBW's Communications Director, Chrystie Payne, led the event as MC, while Board President, Ty Troutman, and Cafe and Bakery Manager, Julius Jackson, warmly welcomed the attendees.
Carol Callwood, a long-time advocate for alternative learning programs and multiple chances for the USVI youth, graced the event as the keynote speaker. Having previously served as the president of the St. Thomas/St. John Federation of Teachers, Callwood is currently teaching English Language Arts at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School and English as a Second Language at Adult Continuing Education. Her impassioned message to the graduates highlighted the importance of their chosen career paths to the community's sustainability.
Deandra Wheatley, a former trainee and now a Junior Trainer in the CNC Machine Shop, spoke about her journey with MBW, inviting attendees to visit the Workshop to learn more about their work.
MBW Executive Director, Jenny Hawkes, detailed the different levels of certifications and programs signified by the cords and stoles. Kerwin Solomon was presented with the STRC “Love Thy Neighbor Award” by Pastor Jeff Neevel and Ty Troutman for his outstanding character and exemplary community service.
The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to the graduates, each of whom left with new qualifications and opportunities. Payne provided closing remarks and invited everyone to enjoy refreshments prepared by the MBW Café and Bakery.
MBW graduates have now embarked on their careers equipped with a wide variety of skills, from carpentry to hospitality, ready to contribute to their community's future. As they step into the workforce, they carry with them the mission of MBW – to transform their community through skill, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to their trades.
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