Participants in the Future Leaders Programme were presented with $19,000 by the Premier today.

David Burt handed the cheque to Ryan Robinson-Perinchief, the programme’s organiser, at Cabinet Office.

Mr Burt said the money would help ensure that anyone who wanted to participate in the programme could do so “without concern for the cost”.

He congratulated those joining the programme for “exploring the world around you as you make a difference to your family, community and Bermuda”.

Mr Burt said: “Leadership does not depend on your age, experience or knowledge.

“It only requires the willingness to be bold with the desire to help guide and shape others.”

He added that skills learnt in the programme would allow participants to lay the “foundation for the future”.

The youths will take part in the three-week training programme which examines issues including poverty, violence and social justice.

They will also participate in community service projects.

Mr Burt said the Government believed in Bermuda’s youth.

He said: “We encourage you, we support you, and I look forward to hearing of your future successes.”