"Toastmasters showed us how young men should speak and socialize with each other," said one 14-year-old who participated in the Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) which culminated in a graduation exercise last month.

"I am now better able to express my ideas and thoughts," said the eighth grader, whose identity is being withheld as he is a minor.

The YLP empowers young people to become effective communicators and leaders through a workshop style, eight week programme. Each Saturday in October and November the young men learned how to participate in and lead group discussions/meetings, organize and present their ideas logically and convincingly, and overcome the nervousness everyone feels when asked to speak before an audience.

The teens were also taught to listen carefully to the ideas of others and were offered advice to help improve their speaking and leadership skills. As they progressed, their self confidence grew.

"Our motto is building nation builders," said children's home administrator, Betty Ann Brooks. "It's vital that these young men have interaction with positive role models. It enables them to enhance their self-esteem and self-worth."

The programme positively impacted the youths in several ways. 

"From the onset the young men begun to look persons in the eye when talking to them," said Mrs Brooks. "The programme has made them more self-assured and confident. I wish there was a phase two."

Coordinating the programme was David Brown. He was assisted by Dion Knowles. Serving as senior advisors to the programme were Anthony Longley, Terrance Pratt and Clement Foster.

Franklyn Winder, the club's Vice-President of Education organized the event.

"Programmes like this make a positive change which trickles throughout The Bahamas," said Mr. Winder. "We intend to conduct more of these in key areas throughout New Providence."

Club President Pedro Young thanked the home for opening its doors to the initiative.

"We thank Betty-Ann Brooks for seeing the wisdom in allowing Toastmasters Club 1600 to conduct this Youth Leadership Programme at the home," he said. "It was as much a pleasure for us as it was for our young participants."