On July 29, 2023, the Chrysalis Academy witnessed another milestone as 223 young men from the 23 ALPHA group, hailing from every corner of the province, graduated from the renowned academy. The graduation ceremony was graced by the presence of the Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Mr. Reagen Allen, who delivered an inspiring keynote address.
Mr. Allen expressed his joy at witnessing both the graduates and their families brimming with pride. He emphasized the importance of investing in young people, especially those from vulnerable communities, in order to empower and develop them. Such investments, he noted, are crucial in breaking the cycle of disenfranchised youth who might be tempted to take paths leading to drug abuse and crime.
The Chrysalis Academy, known for its commitment to upskilling young people aged 18-25, has reached a significant milestone, with over 10,400 graduates completing their three-month development and empowerment course to date. The academy’s success lies in its comprehensive approach to training and mentoring.
Throughout the course, the graduates received training in various disciplines, including Basic Cookery, Office Administration, Security Training, Peace Officiating, Welding, Office Administration, and Electrical Circuitry. These skills are complemented by personal development and life skills subjects, such as Personal Mastery, Emotional Intelligence, Leadership, Diversity, and Conflict Management.
The Chrysalis Academy aims to be a platform for youth to deepen their resilience and unleash their potential through physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development. The program not only helps them become role models and agents of positive change but also inspires them to set and achieve their future goals.
Speaking highly of the academy’s dedication, Mr. Allen praised Dr. Meyer and her entire team at Chrysalis for their tireless work in helping young people discover their potential. He urged the graduates to showcase and share their Chrysalis experience, encouraging other youngsters to avoid paths that can be harmful.
The impact of the Chrysalis Academy goes beyond just training; it offers a 12-month work placement program for the graduates with various safety partners through the Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety. This step ensures that the skills learned during the course are put to practical use, fostering meaningful career opportunities for the graduates.
Graduation day at Chrysalis is not just a celebration of successfully completing the program; it symbolizes a new lease on life for the graduates. It marks the beginning of opportunities they have already embraced and those that await them after graduation. Through the support of the academy and its partners, these young men are well-equipped to shape their future and contribute positively to society.
The Chrysalis Academy’s dedication to developing youth and providing them with valuable skills aligns with the vision of fostering a generation of responsible and proactive citizens. As they venture into the next phase of their lives, the 223 graduates from the 23 ALPHA group are now better prepared to face life’s challenges, secure in the knowledge that they have the tools to make a positive impact on their communities.
The success of the Chrysalis Academy not only reflects the commitment of the institution and its team but also highlights the importance of continued investments in the youth. As more young people are upskilled and empowered, the prospect of a brighter and more secure future for the entire nation becomes increasingly promising.
