“Sometimes, all we need is someone to believe in us—a chance to start anew. Let this opportunity be your momentum. Contribute to your organisations, move up, and choose your career path based on your growth and learning,” shared Sydney Thwaites, President of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA).

He made the charge during his keynote address at the Desnoes and Geddes Foundation Forklift Trainees’
graduation ceremony on Tuesday, 23.

A second cohort of forklift operators have been through the D&G Foundation, in partnership with Project STAR and DECs Management and Logistics Services Ltd.

“Our unemployment rate might be low, but many people remain on the fringes, unable to enter the workforce. So, I extend my deepest appreciation and congratulations to the D&G Foundation, DECs, and Project STAR teams. The JMEA and our member companies are eager to partner with you. To our graduates, congratulations! You’ve learned valuable skills that go beyond just operating a forklift. On behalf of over 500 companies, I express our collective pride in your achievements. I look forward to expanding this initiative and exploring similar programmes for other skills,” added Thwaites.

The graduation ceremony, commemorating the anniversary of the MOU signing last July, celebrated the completion of an intensive programme, including two weeks of training and a 20-day paid internship, undertaken by 19 promising youths.

“We are young people with the opportunity to understand what it means to stay alive and thrive truly,” shared Diandra McKenzie as she delivered her valedictorian speech.

“I am proud to be a part of this programme. About three months ago, we each received a call to join a quarterly training programme, which was one of my life’s best experiences. The programme was
designed to fully prepare us, and upon successful completion, we will face many companies, ready to take on new opportunities.”

In addition to certifying new trainees, the ceremony also recognised exceptional achievements.

Diandra McKenzie was honoured as the Most Outstanding Student, Geovaughie Robinson received the most improved award and Leonardo Fletcher was distinguished with the Apex Civic Award.

“This opportunity has been invaluable for all of us. Despite the challenges I faced while travelling from Clarendon to Kingston, I remained committed and made the most of every moment. My colleagues share the same sentiment and are equally excited about the future. We’re all eagerly anticipating new opportunities and full-time employment,” shared Apex Civic Awardee Leonardo Fletcher.

With the addition of the latest graduates, the programme proudly celebrates the certification of 40 forklift operators since its launch.

“We have witnessed the transformative journey of these students. Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to honing their skills, they have all emerged as certified forklift operators and as a beacon of inspiration for their communities. The manufacturing sector is undeniably a driving force behind Jamaica’s economic growth, but it faces its fair share of challenges. One such challenge that garnered significant attention is the shortage of certified forklift operators.

However, through our partnership with Project STAR and DECS Management & Logistics Services Limited, we have addressed this shortage and created sustainable socio-economic opportunities for underserved youth,” affirmed D&G Foundation accountant Dennis Beckford.