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More than 70 residents of Salt Spring, St James, have successfully secured employment following their graduation from a job readiness training programme delivered under Project STAR.

The initiative provided participants with the tools to become job-ready and the confidence to step into the world of work. The most recent graduation ceremony, which took place in Salt Spring, saw a new cohort of 36 participants completing the programme. In addition to job placement, graduates were awarded several industry-recognised certifications, including National Council on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (NCTVET) certificate in quality service, an NCTVET certificate in hospitality guest services, a certificate of completion in Project STAR job readiness training, and the certified guest service professional designation from the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute.

Denisha Brown, one of the graduates, said the programme changed her outlook on life.

"Three of the most important things that I've learnt are how to be more responsible, how to resolve conflicts, and that each one can teach one," she said. "We can always reach out to people in the community and encourage them to take this step too." Fellow graduate Nick Anthony said teamwork played a big role in his experience.

"The most helpful part was when everybody came together and worked as a team to make sure that we all did our best to learn more and achieve more," he said. "I also learnt how to resolve workplace conflicts and handle guest communication. Learning new things like resume writing was just beautiful."

Stephanie Massa shared that the programme helped her feel more confident about re-entering the workforce.

"This isn't my first job," she said, "but I know I'm walking away with new skills that I can apply to any role."

Project STAR is a a five-year social and economic transformation project that targets under-resourced and underserved communities experiencing high levels of crime or violence. Kelly Griffith, training coordinator at Project STAR, praised the graduates' determination and highlighted the significance of their achievements.

"We are incredibly proud of this latest cohort from Salt Spring," she said. "Their success is a powerful reminder of what is possible when people are given the right tools and support. These 70 job placements in Salt Spring are not just numbers; they represent transformed lives, improved families, and a more hopeful, empowered community."

The programme combined practical training with mentorship and certification, resulting in employment for graduates across the hospitality and customer service sectors, and in administrative support roles. The certifications not only boost participants' resumes, but also open doors to advancement in the tourism and service industries.

Griffith said Project STAR will continue its work in the five targeted communities in the programme, with the aim of empowering community members through training, employment, and sustainable development.