In 2017, Bermuda faced challenges with disenfranchised youth caught in gang culture. Visionaries Stephen Parkes and Clarke Fox proposed the "Roundabout Cottage," a vocational training center to empower youth and foster community change. The One Bermuda Alliance initially supported the project by providing access to the Roundabout Cottage and approving a government grant. The Progressive Labor Party revoked the grant and demolished the building causing a significant setback to the initiative. Tragically, both Parkes and Fox fell victim to the cycle of gang violence they sought to address.
Bermuda's youth faced cycles of violence and crime, influenced by lack of opportunities and societal neglect. Many felt disenfranchised and hopeless about their futures.
Clarke Fox's Insight
Clarke Fox, a former convict, articulated the pervasive negativity: "What they're preaching to them is that they've got to be gunmen, to be killers, to be drug dealers." This grim reality highlighted the urgent need for intervention.
Key Stakeholders
Youth
The primary beneficiaries, directly impacted by initiatives aimed at supporting them.
Clarke Fox
A vital advocate with a compelling personal story, emphasizing the urgent need for change.
Stephen Parkes
Master carpenter providing practical foundation and inspiration for vocational training programs.
Political Parties
The One Bermuda Alliance initially supported the project, while the Progressive Labor Party later revoked the grant.
Defining the Vision
1
Empowerment through Skills
Offering vocational training in trades like masonry, painting, and carpentry.
2
Community Engagement
Involving local businesses and organizations to tailor programs to community needs.
3
Long-term Change
Addressing root causes of disenfranchisement for sustainable transformation.
Analyzing the Solution
1
Vocational Training
Equipping participants with essential skills to build confidence and offer pathways to stable employment.
By providing comprehensive training and support, the organization empowers individuals to build the confidence and practical abilities needed to secure stable employment and take meaningful steps towards financial independence.
At the heart of this transformative approach is a deep understanding of the unique barriers and challenges faced by the community Roundabout Cottage serves. Through personalized guidance and hands-on learning opportunities, participants are able to develop a diverse range of skills, from vocational training to essential life skills, all while fostering a sense of self-assurance that is vital for long-term success.
By investing in the growth and development of each individual, Roundabout Cottage not only equips participants with the tools they need to thrive, but also instills a profound belief in their own abilities. This holistic approach, rooted in empathy and a steadfast commitment to empowerment, has become the driving force behind the organization's enduring impact, opening doors to a brighter future for those it serves..
2
Mentorship Programs
Roundabout Cottage's mentorship program is a cornerstone of its transformative work, connecting experienced professionals with youth seeking guidance and support.
Through one-on-one sessions and group workshops, these mentors leverage their expertise to help participants navigate the complexities of personal development and career planning.
By fostering meaningful relationships built on trust and mutual respect, the mentors create a safe space for participants to explore their dreams, identify their strengths, and develop actionable plans to achieve their goals. This holistic approach empowers youth to overcome barriers, build confidence, and unlock their full potential.
At the heart of this mentorship initiative lies a deep commitment to empowering the next generation. The mentors, themselves successful individuals from diverse backgrounds, serve as living examples of what is possible when one is equipped with the right tools and mindset. Their guidance and encouragement inspire participants to dream big and take the necessary steps to turn those dreams into reality.
3
Community Involvement
Fostering partnerships with local businesses and organizations to secure funding and resources.
Roundabout Cottage understands the vital importance of forging strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations to secure the necessary funding and resources to sustain its transformative work. By cultivating these collaborative relationships, the organization is able to tap into a diverse network of support, ensuring the continued growth and impact of its programs.
Through these partnerships, Roundabout Cottage gains access to financial contributions, in-kind donations, and valuable expertise that empower the organization to expand its reach and deepen its impact within the community. Whether it's securing grants from philanthropic foundations or securing sponsorships from local companies, these partnerships are the lifeblood that fuels Roundabout Cottage's ability to deliver life-changing services to those in need.
Beyond the tangible benefits of funding and resources, these partnerships also foster a sense of community ownership and investment in the organization's mission. When local businesses and organizations become active stakeholders in Roundabout Cottage's success, they not only contribute to the immediate needs of the organization but also lend their voices and influence to amplify the organization's message and advocate for the systemic change it seeks to catalyze.
Challenges and Setbacks
1
Political Opposition
The Progressive Labor Party revoked the grant, causing a significant setback to the initiative.
2
Ongoing Violence
Tragically, both Parkes and Fox fell victim to the cycle of gang violence they sought to address.
3
Community Frustration
The revocation left many in the community frustrated and concerned about the future of youth programs.
Evaluating the Impact
Sparking Conversations
The initiative highlighted the challenges facing Bermuda's youth and the need for community-driven solutions.
Ongoing Relevance
The goals of reducing gang violence and enhancing youth employability remain critical for the community.
Inspirational Legacy
The vision of creating a supportive environment for youth continues to resonate and inspire future efforts.
The Enduring Legacy
While the Roundabout Cottage was never realized, the vision of Stephen Parkes and Clarke Fox continues to inspire. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for positive change, even in the face of adversity. As Bermuda reflects on these events, the need for sustained efforts to support disenfranchised youth remains more critical than ever.
The legacy of Parkes and Fox calls for a renewed commitment to fostering a brighter future for the island's young people, emphasizing the importance of community-driven solutions and the transformative power of education and skill development.