Three young people have successfully graduated from one of Raleigh Bermuda’s scholarship programmes.

Established in 2004, Raleigh International Bermuda teaches young people various skills and self-confidence outside a traditional class or workplace setting.

Yeshai Burgess, Zyire Gomes and Sianon Thomas completed the charity’s venturers’ scholarship programme, which offers 17 to 24-year-olds personal coaching and the chance to participate in a ten-week survival journey overseas.

A charity spokeswoman said: “After completing the local training camps, our venturers are then sent overseas for ten weeks to continue their advanced survival training – an expedition in the remote jungles, mountain and rivers of Costa Rica and working with the indigenous communities by helping to build schools, irrigation systems, engaging in environmental projects and trekking for several weeks through the jungles.”

After graduating from the year-long programme, alumni can become project managers, mentors, coaches or board members within the charity.

Dany Rodriguez, Raleigh’s executive director, said: “The three final graduates we witness today succeeded in completing their advanced local training camps and their overseas expedition.

“Today we also celebrate our 2023 Raleigh graduates and the rite of passage and acknowledgement of our young Bermudians stepping into manhood and womanhood – I am extremely proud of all of them.”

Mr Burgess also received the Malcolm K Outerbridge Transformation award, given to the participant who showed the greatest transformation within the programme.

He also earned the Michael J Spurling “Raleigh Champion” award, given to an outstanding organisation volunteer and advocate.

Ajahni Roberts-Smith, who won the award last year, handed Mr Burgess this prize.

He was given these awards at Deloitte’s Hamilton headquarters last week.

Ms Rodriguez said: “Congratulations Yeshai, we are deeply proud of you, and we hope the award will help you transition into the next phase of your young adult life; whether it be with education advancement, skill development or support in your life’s journey.”

Graduates were not the only ones recognised at the event – Milvin DeRosa was crowned alumni of the year for his commitment to the charity and Nicole Warren won parent of the year.

Programme co-ordinator Keri Pacheco received a special thank you from the organisation for helping the venturers succeed in their journey.

To learn more about the charity and Venturers’ scholarship programme, visit raleigh.bm or contact info@raleigh.bm or call 333-5678.