Emerging leaders have completed training to strengthen communication, navigate conflict, build healthy relationships and create spaces where young people feel valued.

The Mirrors Programme celebrated cohort 21 of its Community Programme Leadership Academy for completing the Restorative Circles Training in partnership with Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda.

Participants explored principles of restorative practices including empathy, accountability and understanding different perspectives.

The training emphasised moving beyond blame towards meaningful conversations, shared responsibility and repairing harm.

A key focus was peer-led leadership that aimed to empower the emerging leaders to apply restorative approaches within their schools and communities, support constructive conversations and help create a culture of respect, understanding and belonging.

Kim Jackson, a programme manager at Mirrors, said: “The value of restorative practices extends beyond resolving conflict.

“It is about helping young people understand themselves and others, take responsibility for their actions and recognise the influence they have within their communities.

“Through CPLA, we are equipping our emerging leaders with practical tools to strengthen relationships and become part of the positive change they want to see.”

Stacey-Lee Williams, the executive director at Curb, added: “At Curb, our work with young people reminds us how much they have to contribute when we make space to listen.

“Through our partnership with The Mirrors Programme, we support young people in exploring their own experiences, listening to different perspectives and understanding how their choices affect others.

“Restorative practices help them build relationships, take responsibility and repair harm with dignity.

“Our hope is that they carry these skills into their schools, homes and communities, recognising their power to help shape a fairer, more compassionate and connected Bermuda.”

The training also complements cohort 21's Positivity Project which challenges participants representing The Berkeley Institute, CedarBridge Academy, Sandys Secondary Middle School and the Adult Education School to design and lead three mental wellness campaigns.

The campaigns will be “Awareness” next month, “Support” in February and “Connection” next May.

Together, these initiatives encourage young people to use their voices, support their peers and help build healthier, more connected school communities.

The Mirrors Programme thanked Curb for its continued partnership and commitment to empowering Bermuda’s young people through restorative practices.