Young people were commended yesterday for breaking the stereotypes set against them and pushing forward in their studies.

"It's so reaffirming to see our young black men achieving success in their chosen disciplines because often times the media portrays young black males in a negative light and here, we have success stories," said Deborah Thomas-Gilkes, the Government Senior Training Manager.

Mrs. Thomas-Gilkes served as Mistress of the Ceremony at a Bursary Awards Presentation honouring 13 young Bermudians, who have decided to pursue their studies within the public-service arena.

She said: "It shows that our young men and women are committed in pursuing their chosen careers and are contributing to their country as civil servants in their career choice.

"Their pursuit of higher education exemplifies that young Bermudians are preparing themselves to assume positions of responsibility and they are trailblazers for other young Bermudians."

The $10,000 Public Service Bursary Award was given to four new recipients Auralee Cassidy, Tika Gilbert, Sherleeta Simmons and Dessiree Waldron while seven others were chosen as continuing recipients, including Kristen Darrell, Jamari Douglas, Jacqi Simons, Sidkai Tavares, Kim Thornhill, Don Vickers and Nicola White.

Premier Ewart Brown commended the young people. "Bursary recipients, your range of chosen fields of study is encouraging and demonstrates that you have thought about what this community needs and more importantly, you have considered the needs of the public service," he said. "For this I applaud you as you are preparing for success."

He continued: "You should know that in each of your chosen fields of study there are significant numbers of work permit holders.

"Whilst there will always be a need for guest workers in Bermuda, the aim of this Government is to have as many Bermudians as want to be, employed in the areas of their choosing.

In addition, two former recipients, Shannon Dyer and Tawana Thomas-Tannock were celebrated for graduating in their chosen fields in public service.

Mr. Dyer, a History and Social Studies graduate, received the bursary for three years and now has the opportunity to work as a Curator of Forts and Historic Sites for the Department of Parks.

This bursary means a lot to many recipients, such as Sherleeta Simmons who said she would not have otherwise been able to pursue her law degree. According to her mother, Sherma Simmons, finances deter a lot of young Bermudians from pursuing their masters or doctorates.

Mrs. Simmons said: "I think it helps your children to accomplish their goals and also offers children the opportunity to not stop half-way, mid-stream. If she didn't get this, she would probably settle for less like many young people do."