Counselors Assist At-risk Youths

Fermin Olivera

The University of Belize also facilitated the retreat by providing a team of counselors to stimulate the sensitive conversations that would eventually lead to healing. Despite the logistical nightmare that ensued, Fermin Olivera is grateful that the attendance showed that there is a willingness on the part of these young men to begin the discussion.

Fermin Olivera, University of Belize

“Our responsibility really was to facilitate some therapeutic sessions during this camp experience and I can say that we did most of the sessions planned.  There were some little logistical situations, you know, but we were very happy to be able to join in this initiative, [and we are] very grateful that the guys did come out.  Clearly, an operation such as this there is little room for improvement and we hope we can improve on that.”

Isani Cayetano

“In terms of discussing with these young men and listening to what some of their root issues are in their respective communities, what was that like and perhaps what were some of the recurrent themes that came up in these conversations?”

Fermin Olivera

“Well, it is no secret.  These guys have had, you know, varying life experiences as is expected.  The group sessions we did at this point was not at that level to know too much into their personal lives.  It was more about presenting them with ideas to talk about and let them see a little bit about their identity, culture, a little bit about society and how all these things interplay.  So it was a little bit different from the therapeutic scheme.  That, we’re hoping, would happen after the camp in the next upcoming weeks.”