Hamilton, valedictorian of the graduating class and resident of Kencot, St Andrew, almost didn't even make it into the programme.
"I was told it was too late to attend classes, but somebody was watching out for me," he said. Hamilton is thankful for the patience and support of community action officer, Unicie Delapenha, who helped secure a place for him.
Hamilton admits that sometimes he became tired of the classroom.
"It was difficult because most of us did not have any knowledge of welding, but the CSJP staff were always there to encourage," he said.
Proud of the accomplishments
Instructor in the programme, Wesley Green, said he was proud of the accomplishments of the youths, many of whom were faced with disciplinary problems at first.
The graduation was the culmination of a journey that began several months before, but not a journey all the participants completed. The youngsters were given a grim reminder of the horrific effects of violence when two participants fell victim to gun violence in their community.
Kitson Bryan was extremely happy to be graduating.
"It seems at times it wouldn't happen. I hope it doesn't stop here; I would love other organisations to help the CSJP launch more programmes like this one," he said.
The journey through the programme and the joy of success were overwhelming for one graduate. Close to tears, he declared, "The programme got me off the streets. If it wasn't for the programme, I don't know where I would be right now."
Kimberlee Tracy-Ann Salmon, the sole female among the 65 graduates, described the experience as a dream come true.
Agents of change
Major Richard Reese, permanent secretary in the Ministry of National Security, commended the graduates on successfully completing the programme, but implored them to use the skills they acquired to be agents of change.
"These are tough times economically and you must use the skills you have learnt to create jobs and help alleviate some of the problems that exist in your communities," he said. Reese also promised the ministry's continued involvement and support of the programme.
Community action coordinator with the CSJP, Orville Simmons, said the programme was overall a success, as a dozen of the participants had already secured employment.
Mother of two of the graduates, Rosalee Williams, is grateful for changes she has seen in her twin sons' development. "They have improved a lot, they are more motivated and more responsible," she said.
The Citizen Security for Justice Programme is a unit of the Ministry of National Security designed to equip inner-city youths with practical skills with the goal of making them employable. The component of the programme from which the youths recently graduated offers a comprehensive welding course, along with remedial courses in math and English. There are also classes that cover conflict resolution and entrepreneurial skills.