The Berkeley Institute Key Club, a youth-led service organisation sponsored by the charity Kiwanis International, has welcomed 24 young members into its ranks.

The charter and pinning ceremony for students was performed by Timothy McMahon, past governor of the New England and Bermuda District of Kiwanis International.

Mr McMahon was assisted by Leleath Bailey, of the Kiwanis Club of Hamilton, which is the founding sponsor for The Berkeley Institute Key Club.

Ms Bailey serves as the liaison between the two groups.

Key Club International is an international service organisation for high school students. It is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

At the May 19 event, the students were installed by Kristin Holden, the district governor of the New England and Bermuda District of Kiwanis. Ms Holden offered words of encouragement to the new members.

This year, Dee-Ah Iris and Oneka Smith will serve as teacher advisers of the club.

Patricia Swan, the lieutenant-governor of the Kiwanis Club of Hamilton, said the main role of the Key Club is to build leadership skills along with community service.

She said the youth-centred programme offered numerous benefits for students.

She explained: “These benefits include developing strong leadership skills, participating in service projects that improve the community and school, and connecting with a global network of Key Club members and alumni.”

Ms Swan said the programme enabled them to build a strong school culture, develop a deeper commitment to service and improve academically.

The Berkeley Institute Key Club was founded in 2006 by Niamah Denbrook, a former teacher at the school.