Energy, creativity, and purpose filled the Human Resource Development Centre in Gros Islet as the Boys Training Centre (BTC), in partnership with the Amy Winehouse Foundation, brought the curtain down on the Drug Awareness and Internet Bullying Workshop.
The closing ceremony on August 20, 2025, not only celebrated the remarkable achievements of participants but also underscored a united resolution to protect Saint Lucia’s youth and strengthen
communities through awareness, empowerment, and support.
Amellia Charles Luctor, workshop facilitator and programme officer at the Substance Abuse Advisory Secretariat in the Ministry of Health, highlighted the value of this approach.
“The boys were presented with information about substance use and misuse. They were engaged in group work activities.
One component was designing a poster to illustrate the dangers associated with substance abuse. They also wrote and produced a song and collaborated to sing it.”
Bridget McNamara, representative of Amy’s Gift to Saint Lucia, encouraged participants to carry forward the lessons learned.
“I hope that you are becoming more aware of and better equipped with the knowledge of the dangers of internet bullying and
that you are more aware, now more than ever, of the dangers of drugs,” she said.
Samantha Fevrier, officer in charge at the Boys Training Centre, re-emphasised the importance of continuous support for vulnerable youth.
“We know that some of the vulnerable youth we have in
our care struggle with substance abuse, so it is always important to reinforce positive values and virtues. We are always delighted when organisations come on board, and they assist in trying to get that point across,” Fevrier said.
The initiative not only empowered participants with practical knowledge but also inspired them to use creativity and
collaboration as tools for resilience and positive change.
