To be given a second chance is often called a golden opportunity, something 11 young persons from the Fletcher's Land community were given recently.

The 11 are now certified in food preparation.

"I am glad for this training and certification as I did not know that my life could turn out so well. Thank God and the Jamaica Cooperative Credit Union League (JCCUL). I now have a chance to work professionally," said Kavon Jones before getting his certificate.

His view was echoed by 19-year-old Sheneda Ashley, who said it was a great feeling to be certified.

"I just feel great about the certification. It gives me a chance to shine and make my family and community proud," she said.

The youth, who attended a year-long training programme at the Amy Bailey Training Centre at the Young Men's Christian Association, were being honoured by their sponsor yesterday in a ceremony at the JCCUL's head-quarters in St Andrew.

honouring their effort

"We think they have done well, therefore, we are honouring their effort, as we continue to give back to the community," said Glenworth Martin, general manager of the JCCUL.

He implored the youth to continue developing, as the more qualified they became, the more employable they would be.

The JCCUL forked out approxi-mately $450,000 to help the young men and women achieve National Technical Vocational Educational Training Level One certification.