Deputy Prime Minister Cooper Encourages L.N. Coakley Students to Develop and Implement a Life Plan.

Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation of The Bahamas, addressed the Falcons Boys Club & Champs Mission, emphasizing the importance of their motto, “Building Youth is Better Than Mending Men.” He commended the organization for their 28-year commitment to nurturing young male leaders throughout the islands. Speaking to nearly 200 students at L.N. Coakley High School in Moss Town, Exuma, Cooper likened personal development to the construction of a building, a continuous work in progress demanding ongoing effort and refinement.

Cooper shared his personal journey, highlighting the challenges he faced growing up in Forbes Hill, Exuma, after the loss of his father. Despite hardships, he stressed the importance of setting goals and striving to achieve them, emphasizing the critical role of community support in overcoming adversity. He encouraged the young men to envision their desired futures and develop a roadmap to reach their aspirations, emphasizing that success is attainable with determination and the right support system. He underscored the value of mentorship and community involvement in shaping their paths.

The Deputy Prime Minister outlined the key elements of self-development, drawing parallels to the construction process. He stressed the need for a blueprint, a well-defined plan, emphasizing that this requires seeking guidance and support from family, community, and mentors. He highlighted the crucial role of education in building knowledge and skills, emphasizing the importance of diligent effort and consistent focus to bring their vision to fruition. He also acknowledged that the journey will not be without obstacles, encouraging them to lean on their support system during times of difficulty.

Cooper emphasized the need for patience and resilience in pursuing their goals. He likened the journey of self-development to a construction project, prone to delays and unexpected challenges. He advised the young men to maintain focus and perseverance, trusting in their plan and support system to navigate obstacles such as peer pressure and difficult choices. He reinforced the idea that achieving their goals is a rewarding experience, but the journey itself, with its inherent challenges and learning opportunities, is equally important.

He encouraged the students to view the Falcons Boys Club & Champs Mission as part of their support team, offering guidance and encouragement on their journey. He reiterated that the process of self-development is ongoing, requiring continuous learning, growth, and adaptation. He likened this ongoing process to the maintenance required for a building, emphasizing the need for constant improvement and refinement.

In closing, Cooper reiterated the importance of viewing life as a continuous construction project, requiring consistent effort, adaptation, and a strong support network. He encouraged the young men to embrace the challenges, learn from their experiences, and continuously strive for growth, emphasizing the Falcons Boys Club & Champs Mission as a valuable resource on their path to becoming successful and well-rounded individuals. He reinforced the message that personal development is a lifelong journey, demanding continuous dedication and the willingness to adapt and evolve.