A Bermudian motivational speaker has delivered a powerful message to Harvard University students.

Dennis Rahiim Watson, recently spoke at the 11th Annual Tribute to Black Men Forum on Black Masculinity at Harvard University, hosted by the Association of Black Harvard Women.

During his address he challenged students to become articulate, to learn debate skills, to master the English language and to follow Harvard Alumni President Barack Obama's example by being proactive, volunteering to mentor other youth and becoming beacons of hope and role models for those in their communities.

Mr. Watson, CEO of the Center for Black Student Achievement and Chairman of the National Youth and Gang Violence Task-force, commended the current students and reminded them of their opportunities encouraging them not to let their parents and ancestors down.

"You are the most awesome and phenomenal generation we have ever produced. I say this from experience because my generation grew up in a segregated system with black-and-white television, transistor radio, black telephones, no computers, no cell phones, no internet, nor ATM cards.

"To keep busy and entertain ourselves we played marbles, tops and made our own toys. You have a responsibility to make your mothers, fathers and family proud by acting responsible, dignified, intelligent and productive.

"Your families have invested in your success, do not let them down. Do not allow yourself, as President Barack Obama repeatedly said during his campaign, to get bogged-down by distractions."

Mr. Watson also challenged students to stay focused, up-beat, positive, hopeful and enthusiastic by saying: "God is good all the time no matter what you're going through."

He continued by encouraging the current generation to help his generation solve some of the most pressing problems of out time.

"You must use your God given gifts, talents, knowledge, learning and degrees to lift up your communities and empower your brothers and sisters from the ravages of ignorance, hopelessness, drugs, crime, illiteracy, thuggery, senseless violence, unemployment, incarceration and gang-warfare," he said.

President Barack Obama, in a recent commendation honoured Mr. Watson and said: "We know what our young people, especially our boys, need. They need education and opportunity, but also strong role models who can lead them toward responsible adulthood and away from the temptations of gangs and making a quick buck."

The President added: "You have been such a role model, working tirelessly in high schools and colleges, churches and prisons, and many other places where there are people who need to hear the message that they can do well for themselves and be a blessing to their neighbours at the same time.

"For over three decades, you have been a strong voice for good in our communities, and I wish you continued success in your work with the next generation of African American youth."

Mr. Watson, who is from Ord Road and raised in Southampton, has lectured at more than 1,000 colleges and universities throughout the United States, Africa and the Caribbean and was recently named one of the top 50 best Black speakers in America.

He will be in Bermuda today to be the keynote speaker at the Berkeley Institute Student Leadership Conference.

Mr. Watson said he was honoured and delighted to return home to give Berkeley Institute students the keys to success and leadership in a globally competitive world.