The Ministry of Justice, through its Probation Services Division, has marked the graduation of 15 participants from its Male Mentorship Programme at a ceremony held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Division’s Head Office.
The ceremony marked the completion of the programme’s first six-week cycle, designed to support male offenders under probation supervision through mentorship, behavioural change sessions and vocational skills training.
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, the Honourable Devesh Maharaj, Minister of Justice and Minister in the Office of the Attorney General, said the programme demonstrates the Government’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation while reinforcing accountability within the justice system.
“Since I came into this Government, that is all I have spoken about: second chances. You have been given a second chance in your life, and I want you to take full advantage of it. Remember the lessons. Remember the people who stood by you along the way,” Minister Maharaj told the graduates.
The Minister noted that the programme’s inclusion of vocational training was particularly important in helping participants develop practical skills that can contribute to future employment and self-sufficiency.
The six-week programme, which ran from July 21 to August 25, 2026, featured weekly behavioural change and mentorship sessions, complemented by a vocational component in electrical home repairs facilitated by one of the programme’s mentors.
Permanent Secretary (Ag.), Ministry of Justice, Ms Trudy Lewis, underscored the importance of sustained support and meaningful interventions in helping participants to successfully transition towards more positive and productive lives.
“Being before the Court does not remove one’s capacity to learn, develop and make different choices. Probation provides an opportunity to hold persons accountable, while also supporting the kinds of changes that can reduce the likelihood of a return to the justice system. That is why initiatives such as this matter,” PS Lewis said.
Chief Probation Officer (Ag.), Ms Shervonne Bruno-Pierre, paid tribute to the graduates’ commitment and acknowledged the important role they played in achieving this milestone.
“Your courage to embrace change, your openness to guidance, and your determination to walk a brighter path have brought you to this moment. You are living proof that rehabilitation works, and that with support and commitment, transformation is possible,” Ms Bruno-Pierre said.
During the graduation ceremony, participants received certificates of participation and tokens, while mentors were presented with certificates of appreciation in recognition of their contribution to the six-week programme.
Community Service Officers Ms Carla Watkins and Mr Mark Simmons were commended for their years of service and their commitment to rehabilitative intervention for offenders placed in their care and supervision.
The Ministry of Justice remains committed to strengthening initiatives that support rehabilitation, personal development and successful reintegration, recognising that effective justice responses must contribute to safer individuals, safer families and safer communities.