Thirteen Young Caymanians Graduate from Passport2Success

This summer, a group of 13 young Caymanians marked a milestone in their personal and professional development as they graduated from Cohort 40 of the Passport2Success (P2S) Programme on Friday, 22 August.

Passport2Success, run by the National Development and Training Unit within the Ministry of Education and Training, is a flagship employability initiative delivered through a public-private partnership with The Wellness Centre. The programme equips young people with the confidence, skills, and workplace readiness required to succeed in today’s evolving job market.

Cohort 40 was the first cohort tailored exclusively for 15 to 18-year-olds. Over six weeks, participants were immersed in a dynamic learning environment, gaining hands-on training in resume writing, communication, teamwork, and workplace etiquette. A highlight of the programme was a two-week industry placement, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world work environments.

Dr. Shannon Seymour, Director for The Wellness Centre emphasised the impact of the programme: “P2S offers young people so much more than work readiness skills; it creates a supportive environment where they are heard, encouraged to be curious about the world of work, explore their passions, and develop critical interpersonal skills. It has been a privilege to watch these young people grow in both confidence and capability. We are grateful to have been part of this initiative and to contribute to the empowerment of Cayman’s youth.”

Shantannia Bryan, Programme Coordinator for P2S at the National Training and Development Unit, reflected on the dedication of the group, saying,“Cohort 40 was an inspiring group. These young people chose to spend their summer investing in themselves, learning practical skills, and gaining meaningful experience. It’s encouraging to see how much growth can happen in just six weeks when youth are supported, challenged, and given the tools to succeed.”

Kimone Chambers, Manager for the National Training and Development Unit, commended the achievements of the cohort and highlighted the impact of employer partnerships.

“Over the past six weeks, we have witnessed the remarkable growth of 13 young Caymanians who embraced every opportunity to learn, adapt, and shine,” she said. “Their commitment was evident not only in the classroom but also during their internships, where several participants impressed employers to the extent that they received offers for full-time, part-time, or school-break employment. This pilot has shown that, with the right guidance and exposure, our young people are ready to shape their own futures.”

Cohort 40 stands as a testament to the Ministry’s commitment to investing in its youth and ensuring that the next generation is not only prepared for employment but also equipped for lifelong success.