Press Statement
Citing a “silent crisis” among men, Minister of State in the Ministry of Social Services, the Honourable Bacchus Rolle, is advancing discussions on a proposed mentorship programme to help young men at the Simpson Penn Centre for Boys develop their potential through positive guidance and consistent support.
Minister Rolle, alongside Mr. Donovan Rolle, Chairman of the Centre’s Visiting Board, met with Superintendent Basil Johnson on Monday, November 9, 2026, to discuss strategies for developing and implementing the initiative.
The meeting focused on providing structured mentorship and meaningful relationships to help shape the lives of residents. The proposed programme seeks to create opportunities for personal development, character building and positive transformation by connecting young men with individuals who can serve as mentors and positive role models.
“There is a silent crisis in the population of men,” Minister Rolle said during the discussion, highlighting what he described as a growing and often overlooked concern within society.
He emphasised that meaningful intervention must go beyond correction and discipline, underscoring the importance of compassion, guidance and consistent support in helping young men realise their potential.
“Love and mentorship are among the key principles for restoration and growth,” Minister Rolle stated.
His remarks build on concerns he expressed in a recent National Men’s Month interview about the uncertainty some men experience when they question whether they can meet expectations placed on them.
“Sometimes we give up because we are afraid that we don’t line up,” he said during the interview.
Minister Rolle stressed the importance of helping men recognise their value and creating spaces where they can speak openly about their challenges. He also called on men to take an active interest in young people in their churches, neighbourhoods and wider communities.
Reflecting on his upbringing, he credited older men who recognised his abilities and invested time in his development. Although he came from a two-parent home, he said the involvement of other adults helped him stay on course and exposed him to opportunities beyond his immediate experience.
Some recognised his athletic potential, while others invited him to observe their working lives. Their willingness to provide guidance illustrated the contribution men can make by sharing their time, experience and knowledge with the next generation.
“We have to find time to mentor the next generation of Bahamian boys and girls,” he said.
Minister Rolle also encouraged adults to help young people develop ambitions that build on their interests and talents. He explained that a young person’s interest in working around aircraft, for example, could become an ambition to pursue aircraft mechanics or engineering with the right encouragement and direction.
The discussions at Simpson Penn reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Social Services, the Centre and its Visiting Board in advancing initiatives that prioritise residents’ wellbeing, development and future success.
Through the proposed mentorship programme, the aim is to empower young men to look beyond their present circumstances, recognise their strengths and build brighter futures with the guidance, encouragement and opportunities necessary to succeed.
