He plans to go on to college after high school and wants to become a motor mechanic because he says he enjoys fixing things.

The 18-year-old, who describes himself as outspoken, warm and humorous, says he wishes there were more things for Bermuda's youth to get involved with.

"There should be more activities and programmes, such as fun centres and sports activities, for youth to do in their spare time, especially in the summer and other holidays,'' he said.

Allen also explained that many Bermudian youth do not have ambition or make plans for the future.

"The youth today don't have consciences. They live for today and whatever they do is for themselves. They don't make plans for tomorrow,'' he said.

Allen says one of his favourite hobbies is playing the drums.

"I've played the drums my whole life,'' he said. "When I was young I was always banging on things. I basically taught myself how to play. When I was ten I joined the Warwick United Majorette drum corps and have been with them since.'' Africa is the one place that Allen would like to visit.

`It is the land of creation. I would like to feel how it is to be back home, where we came from. I'd also like to enjoy seeing all the animals and the beautiful people,'' he said.

Given the chance to meet anyone in the world, Allen said he would choose Dr.

Martin Luther King because "he was a great freedom fighter and he achieved a lot in his shortened life''.