“Young people who come into conflict with the law should not have their futures defined by their mistakes.”
That was the message from officials at the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre as they welcomed a new batch of young people to participate in an initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Homeland Security.
“The circumstances that bring a young person in contact with the justice system should not determine the limits of that young person’s future.”
Speaking at the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre psychological engagement event on Thursday, Superintendent of Prisons, Lester Walcott, noted that the transformation from a detention facility to a rehabilitation centre underscores the belief that every young person deserves an opportunity to change and build a better future.
“Our institutional framework has evolved to accommodate both male and female residents. Court determined periods of placement rather than a fixed period of detention. And provisions for eligible residents to continue their rehabilitation beyond the age of 18.”
Director of Policy and Community Support Officer, Zaheer Ali, stressed that the programme focused on identifying and developing the young people’s varied talents.
“They are not going to engage you on what you have before the courts of Trinidad and Tobago. They are going to engage you as human beings who within you are great potential.”
He also highlighted the success of a former resident, King Daniel, whose singing talent, discovered during a prison event, later earned him the opportunity to record a song at the studio of international cricketer and entertainer Dwayne Bravo.
Marking 100 years of service, the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre, in collaboration with the Ministry of Homeland Security, remains committed to serving in the best interests of the nation’s youth.
As the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre commemorates 100 years of service, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and development of the nation’s young people.