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JAM | Jul 25, 2023

D&G Foundation, DECS and Project STAR collaborate to bring forklift training programme to youth

/ Our Today

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D&G Foundation Director, Dianne Ashton Smith joins partners DECS Management & Logistics Services Limited and Project STAR for the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the launch of the certified forklift training programme on Monday (July 17). From left to right: JMMB Group CEO and Co-Chairman of Project STAR, Keith Duncan; D&G Foundation Director, Dianne Ashton Smith; and CEO of DECS Management & Logistics Services Limited, Sheldon Beckford. (Photos: Contributed)

The Desnoes & Geddes (D&G) Foundation has joined forces with DECS Management & Logistics Services and Project STAR to introduce a training and certification programme for forklift operators.

The initiative was formally launched on Monday, July 17, at Red Stripe’s Spanish Town Road Brewery, with training set to commence today, July 25).

The programme, aptly named “Project Lift,” is a shining example of corporate social responsibility, according to JMMB Group CEO and co-chairman of Project STAR, Keith Duncan, who delivered the ceremony’s keynote address.

“This is a symbol of big businesses, medium-sized businesses and small businesses joining forces to create opportunities for unemployed and marginalised youth residing in Jamaica to become fully trained and productive individuals in the country’s workforce.”

Keith Duncan, JMMB Group CEO and CO-Chairman of Project Star

The primary objective of Project Lift is to increase the number of certified forklift operators in Jamaica. By doing so, it aims to enhance the safety operations of various companies and ultimately improve production coverage and productivity within the country. The programme will span one month, providing comprehensive training to the selected candidates.

DECS Management CEO Sheldon Beckford expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting the pivotal role of partnerships in their growth and success.

“Our growth and success has only been made possible by the great partnerships that we have enjoyed, especially with Red Stripe over the years. At DECS, we seek to expand and make reality our commitment to give back to our communities because until everyone sees this country as theirs, there will be no ownership. We are then pleased to partner with D&G Foundation and Project STAR to make transformations for the benefit of Jamaica,” said Beckford.

D&G Foundation Director, Dianne Ashton Smith (second left) joins partners JMMB Group CEO and Co-Chairman of Project STAR, Keith Duncan (far left) and CEO of DECS Management & Logistics Services Limited, Sheldon Beckford (far right) for a photo-op with participating trainees at the official launch of the certified forklift training programme.

Director of D&G Foundation, Dianne Ashton Smith, warmly welcomed the trainees, assuring them that they were now a part of the Red Stripe family. She stressed the importance of forklift training, describing it as an essential aspect of the manufacturing process that keeps the wheels of industry turning. Ashton Smith expressed the toundation’s commitment to contribute positively to building a better Jamaica by impacting lives and enriching communities.

Under the guidance of expert forklift trainer, Patrick Pottinger, a total of 21 trainees will receive practical and soft skills training during the one-month programme. Upon successful completion, DECS Management will offer 20 days of paid internships, providing the graduates with valuable real-world experience and a pathway to gainful employment at Red Stripe or Celebration Brands Limited.

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