In a landmark event that underscores its commitment to youth empowerment, Teen Rescue Mission (TRM) hosted its inaugural graduation ceremony at its youth centre in Seke on Saturday, which has seen 26 young people receiving certificates after they have completed their studies in various self-sustaining courses through TRM’s Life-Skills Program.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the youths who successfully completed TRM’s comprehensive life-skills program, designed to equip young people with the tools necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.
The disciplines from which youths graduated include, dressmaking, baking, poultry production, motor mechanics and horticulture among others.
Parents and guardians who were in attendance testified the profound impact that TRM has so far brought to their community indicating that all the organization’s initiatives have started to register a success in alleviating youth crimes, teen pregnancy, drug and substance abuse cases.
“Seeing my child graduating today is a milestone and I can say hope has been restored to us as a family. TRM has made my child’s dream come true, TRM has given our young people a second chance in life and we are eternally grateful,” said Mrs Mawodza.
Speaking during the ceremony, TRM Director Abraham Matuka said the occasion is a testament to their hard work and reveals that there is a brighter future for the young people of Chitungwiza and areas around especially towards poverty reduction.
“We are incredibly proud of our graduates and the progress they have made. This milestone is a testament to the hard work and resilience of our youths and we are honored to have played a part in their journey.
“As TRM we remain resolute to make a positive impact in the lives of young people, this graduation ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in the next generation. With our commitment to empowering youths with valuable skills and support, TRM is shaping the future leaders of tomorrow,” said Matuka.
Speaking as the guest of honor, Mrs Chivandire commented TRM and its partners for their meaningful contribution towards changing the lives of young people and their commitment to eradicate substance abuse.
“I am happy to be the guest on this great occasion of our youths. I stand to applaud Teen Rescue Mission on the great work that they are doing as team. Having all these youths being empowered really means that we have our youths not taking drugs, our young girls not getting into early marriages and the youths not getting into crime. They are going to have something positive to do for their personal development,” she said.
Meanwhile, Headman Besa said “As the leaders of the community we are happy for what this organization is doing in our area. When youths are empowered and have something to do, they will not become thieves or do other things which are not acceptable in our culture and tradition,” he said
One of the graduates Mellisa Mugabe hailed the organization’s intervention in their community saying “As young girls who have been equipped with various skills which include hairdressing, dressmaking and baking, we are going to start our own projects so that we can have a better living. I am happy to be graduating today, my life will never be the same and I want to encourage my peers to come and learn at TRM,” she said.
Through its life skills program, TRM provides young people with critical skills in areas such as entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and conflict resolution, setting them up for success in their future endeavors.
