Teen mothers attending the Providing Access to Continued Education (PACE) in Nassau will now benefit from cosmetology training and certification to bolster their livelihood opportunities thanks the opening of a Cosmetology Lab made possible by the Sandals Foundation.

The investment, valued at just over US $30,500 involved the retrofitting of an old building on the grounds of the PACE headquarters to provide a space for expecting mothers to learn hair dressing, make-up, and nail technology. The skills are intended to provide a sustainable source of income for young mothers by improving their employability and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Speaking at the opening ceremony held on Friday August 30, Principal at PACE, Patrice Miller says, “This Lab is for training our students not just for the work force but to become business owners and to help them prepare a lifestyle for themselves and their babies.”

Emphasizing the importance of technical education and certification, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Lorraine Armbrister says the empowerment of young ladies in cosmetology is very important.

“While we accept that all children must be literate and numerate we know that not all children are the same. The goal of the Ministry of Education is to ensure that every child is self-empowered, self-fulfilled and that they have what they need [to] achieve. Initiatives like this go a long way to make sure these young women … go on and do great things with their lives.”

Patrice Gilpin, Public Relations Manager at the Sandals Foundation says the philanthropic organization is committed to the empowerment of women and facilitating conditions that propel them to thrive.

“Our teen mothers need that second chance to create a solid framework for their lives. The addition of the Cosmetology Lab opens new doors for employment, entrepreneurship and ultimately – sustainably earning a living…not only for themselves but their new family.”

In a sobering testimonial, PACE graduate, Aliyah Bane shared how her life has been transformed by the programme. “My journey at PACE has elevated me to higher heights. Not only was I equipped with the skills necessary to become a wonderful mother, but I was also able to enhance my skills in hair braiding, needle work, cosmetology and culinary arts. I encourage any young lady in my situation to never give up and to utilize the service at PACE to support them in their life journey to success.”