For the majority of youth in the country, finding employment is often viewed as a great challenge, especially if they were unable to attain any job-related skills prior to graduating from high school. Despite the negative behaviour of some young people over the years, there are many of them who want to make a difference by contributing their talents and time to ensure the economic success of this unique Bahamaland.

Such youth have from time to time been encouraged by Government to seek ways of fulfilling their dreams. They have also been inspired by concerned mentors, educators and religious leaders to never give up, but to pursue wholesome endeavours that will enable them to become the productive citizens they were meant to be.

The youth of Grand Bahama are no different from those in other parts of The Bahamas when it comes to a huge need for sustainable employment. In fact, with this island having the second largest population coupled with lesser job opportunities than New Providence, young Grand Bahamians find it even more difficult to obtain a job because of a sagging economy, which has been on the down-low since the hurricanes of 2004/2005.

Therefore, it is good to know that a bright light is at the end of the tunnel for those young people who have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, as the Free National Movement Government has allotted 20 percent of a $1million grant to those who want to start a small business here in Grand Bahama.

Launched in the capital on Tuesday, this timely move by our nation's leaders could prove to be an excellent incentive for our youth as it shows that they (Government) are finally putting the money where their mouth is. Dubbed the Self-starter Programme, this much needed assistance will now give young entrepreneurs a 'head start' on the road to independence where with each step, they will gain control of which direction their lives will lead.

It is believed by the Government that the programme will help to reduce the long-term unemployment rate among the youth of the country while allowing them to see that through their skills or talents, they can achieve a lucrative livelihood.

According to the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports & Culture, the $1 million grant is available for young people between the ages of 18 and 30, and those who are chosen by the Ministry to participate in the programme will be given funds ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to purchase necessary tools or equipment to get their business started.

To qualify for receiving the funds, interested young adults must be Bahamian, self-employed, or unemployed, have a business idea and must obtain a business licence. Applicants are required to bring with them two passport photos, two letters of recommendation, proof of Bahamian citizenship, a current business licence or documented proof they are applying for a business licence, proof of national insurance and those dealing with food must possess a food-handlers certificate.

Budding entrepreneurs will be happy to know that the approval process will take about 30 days and after the selection process, those accepted will engage in a training course to teach them how to draft a business plan, how to market their business in order for it to be successful, etc. They will also be assigned a mentor, in the person of a successful businessman to help them along the way.

With such a wonderful opportunity being given to the youth of Grand Bahama, it is hoped that a good number of them seize this once in a lifetime chance of self-help to build self-esteem that will enable others to see their self-worth.

Now that the programme has officially been introduced in Grand Bahama, concerned youth with good business ideas are being asked to apply at the Department of Youth office and the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce.