A cadre of young Bermudians stepped up to make a difference in Georgetown, Guyana as part of an overseas service initiative organised by the Violence Reduction Team.

The Ministry of National Security said a group of seven aged 13 to 19 took part in Project Guyana: Built for Change — a programme designed to help participants develop a spirit of service.

A spokesman added: “Placed in an unfamiliar environment where they had to co-operate, solve problems and rely on one another, the participants were challenged to grow in ways that extend well beyond the work itself.

“Project Guyana builds on earlier VRT overseas initiatives, including a similar service-based experience in Malawi, where another group of young Bermudian men worked on community projects designed to strengthen teamwork, personal development and positive relationships.”

The cohort travelled to Guyana last month, where they rolled up their sleeves to help renovate classrooms at St John Bosco Orphanage in Georgetown while taking part in social-emotional development activities, one-to-one conversations and group sessions.

A reflection ceremony was held this month, where Ryan Robinson Perinchief, the national security minister, said: “There is a saying that a mind stretched by a new idea never returns to its original dimensions. That is what Project Guyana has given you.

“You have seen another part of the world, carried real responsibility and done service for others in another environment that has caused you to reflect on your own lives and your place in Bermuda and in this world.

“No one can ever take that perspective away from you. It is not about where you are, but where you are going. Every day, you have the power to choose your direction.”

Leroy Bean, the VRT co-ordinator and a Progressive Labour Party backbencher, added: “We have a tendency to focus on what our young people are doing wrong instead of celebrating what they are doing right. It is time to change that narrative and break that cycle.

“We must work together, invest in our young people and celebrate their growth, their achievements and their potential.”