U.S. Alumni–led community programme celebrates first cohort of graduates

Apr 12, 2026 News

First cohort of graduates of the U.S. Alumni–led community programme Brighter Future Skills Initiative.

(Kaieteur News) – The Brighter Future Skills Initiative, (BFSI) a U.S. Alumni–led community programme, successfully hosted its first Certificate Presentation Ceremony on April 4, 2026, at The Outlook, Peters Hall, marking the completion of its inaugural cohort of participants.

BFSI is a community empowerment programme connecting women and young adults with certified skills training that builds confidence, independence, and brighter tomorrows.

The initiative is led by U.S. Alumni Mrs. Carolyn Caesar-Murray, Founder; Ms. Benita Davis, Monitoring, Evaluation and Feedback Lead; and Ms. Shevon Wood, Programme Operations and Participant Support Coordinator.

Together, the team worked collaboratively to design and deliver a programme focused on practical skills training, personal development, and entrepreneurship.

Some of the participants during their training in makeup artistry by the U.S. Alumni–led community programme Brighter Future Skills Initiative.

The BFSI was established to provide fully sponsored training opportunities for individuals who may not otherwise have access to affordable skills development programmes. The initiative aims to equip participants with both technical and soft skills needed to improve their employment prospects, income-earning potential, and overall quality of life.

For its first cohort, participants received training in Graphic Design, Makeup Artistry, and Manicure and Pedicure. In addition to technical training, participants participated in Soft Skills Development sessions, which covered areas such as professionalism, communication, time management, and workplace behaviour, as well as Entrepreneurship training designed to help participants start or expand small businesses.

Founder of the initiative, Mrs. Carolyn Caesar-Murray, noted that the programme was inspired by her experiences growing up in underserved communities, where many individuals possessed talent but lacked access to guidance, certification, and structured opportunities for development.

“This initiative is about creating pathways,” Mrs. Caesar-Murray stated. “Many people have skills, but without guidance, training, and support, those skills are often underutilized. Through this programme, we are not only providing training, but also building confidence and helping individuals see the potential within themselves.”

The ceremony featured remarks from programme facilitators and invited guests, including Dr. Felicity White, who delivered the Soft Skills training component, and Ms. Lyndell Danzie Black. Participants were presented with certificates recognizing their successful completion of the programme.

The event also highlighted the importance of community collaboration and the role of U.S. Alumni in supporting development initiatives aimed at empowering individuals through skills training and education.

The Brighter Future Skills Initiative intends to expand its reach in future cohorts, offering additional training opportunities and continuing its mission of empowering individuals through accessible and impactful skills development programmes.

“This is only the beginning,” Mrs. Caesar-Murray added. “We are committed to building a strong network of trained individuals who can grow, support each other, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

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Brighter Future Skills Initiative, Graduates, Peters Hall, U.S. Alumni

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