By Linus Flomo
The Roger Gibson Foundation is offering cost-free vocational education to the city’s youth in a groundbreaking move set to impact over 300 young individuals in Paynesville and neighboring areas.
This initiative aims to provide valuable skills and training to help them build a brighter future.
Roger Gibson, the CEO of the Roger Gibson Foundation, announced the initiative at a press conference, emphasizing his commitment to giving back to society.
“This gesture is my way of giving back,” Gibson said. “I felt a strong need to empower young people because they represent the future of our country. Many of them face significant challenges due to limited opportunities.”
Gibson highlighted the importance of vocational training, stating, “I see that they need helping hands that can support them through vocational skills training. This will equip them with constructive knowledge and guide them towards a life-changing direction.”
The foundation’s program will offer training in a range of disciplines, including tie-dying, cosmetology, tailoring, soap-making, and catering. Importantly, all courses will be provided at no cost to the participants.
The decision to cover all expenses reflects the foundation’s belief in removing financial barriers to education and ensuring that every interested youth can take advantage of the opportunity.
To enhance the impact of the training, the Roger Gibson Foundation has partnered with local experts and established professionals in each field.
These seasoned mentors will not only provide hands-on instruction but also share their personal experiences and insights, offering a real-world perspective that can inspire and guide the trainees.
Lawrence Dayougar, the youth focus person for the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC), praised the Roger Gibson Foundation for its contribution.
“This initiative is a significant boost for Paynesville’s youth,” Dayougar said. “Our young people are the heartbeat of the city. They are eager to gain vocational skills that will enable them to secure employment, overcome hardships, and advance in life.”
Dayougar reaffirmed the PCC’s commitment to supporting youth development, emphasizing the city’s dedication to nurturing future leaders.
“We are excited to see the positive changes that this program will bring,” he added. “The collaboration between the foundation and our city shows a powerful commitment to building a better future for our youth.”
The first batch of beneficiaries is set to begin their training this Saturday, September 7, 2024. The program will serve communities including 72nd Community, Du-port Road, Redlight, Neezo, and Somalia Drive.
As part of the program’s kickoff, a community event will be held to celebrate the launch and introduce the participants to their trainers and fellow trainees.
This event will feature demonstrations of the skills that will be taught, as well as motivational speeches from successful individuals who have benefited from similar training programs. Attendees will have the chance to interact with the trainers, ask questions, and get a preview of what to expect from the courses.
The Roger Gibson Foundation’s initiative represents a vital step toward empowering Paynesville’s youth and addressing the challenges they face in their pursuit of a better future.
By equipping young people with practical skills and fostering a supportive environment, the program aims to create pathways to success and inspire a new generation of skilled professionals ready to make a positive impact on their community and beyond.
