Minister for Youth and Sports, Hon. Mario Bowleg says the groundbreaking ceremony for a proposed Youth Center symbolizes hope, vision, commitment and the belief that the future of Bahamian youth is worth investing in.
“Today, a foundation is being laid not only for the building, but also for dreams to take shape, talents to be nurtured, and lives to be transformed,” added Minister Bowleg. “Our youth are among our nation’s greatest resources. They are our future leaders, athletes, entrepreneurs and change makers. When we provide them with safe spaces, meaningful opportunities and the support they need to succeed, we strengthen our communities and secure a brighter future for our country.”
Minister Bowleg’s comments came during the groundbreaking ceremony for Reach Out Youth Organization’s proposed Youth Center, at the site on Ponce de Leon Drive, on Friday, June 19, 2026. The Minister for Youth and Sports noted that the Youth Center will stand as a place where the voices of young people will be heard and amplified; where they will discover their full potential, build confidence and develop the skills necessary to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
“I commend the vision behind this initiative,” said Mr. Bowleg.
“Dudley is a respected youth leader, veteran and a 2025 inductee into the Youth Leaders Hall of Excellence. He has been recognized for his dedication, stellar work and personal sacrifice in service to young people. We also know that he does not stand alone, therefore I applaud his wife and all those who have contributed their time, resources, expertise and encouragement to this endeavor. Your investment in young people is an investment that will yield dividends for generations to come.
“To the young people here today, know that this space is being built with you in mind. I trust that you will use this wisely to dream boldly, work diligently, support one another and strive for excellence in all you do.”
As Minister of Youth and Sports, Minister Bowleg reaffirmed his personal commitment and that of his ministry to support initiatives that empower young people, which in turn strengthens the social fabric of local communities.
He pointed out that the Ministry of Youth and Sports has already committed to providing Reach Out Ministries with an annual grant. Since becoming Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Bowleg said that grants have been increased and he has every intention of increasing the amount again.
In fact, Minister Bowleg said that he and Minister for Grand Bahama, Hon. Ginger Moxey have both agreed to discuss the work of Reach Out with the Cabinet and put forth an argument as to why they feel that the Government must get involved with the Youth Center project.
“It is vital that we continue to create environments where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential,” said Minister Bowleg. “As we break ground today, it is my hope that this project progresses safely and successfully and that it becomes a beacon of inspiration, opportunity and achievement for generations of young people to come.”
The new youth center will comprise an after-school center, a feeding center, a basketball gymnasium, a teaching center and much more. The center will be built like a hurricane shelter. Partners of the project include Links Incorporated, the Ministry for Grand Bahama, the Grand Bahama Port Authority, GB Power and Doctors Hospital.
Reach Out Youth Organization, Founded by Dudley and Katie Seide, was originally started to help focus boys and young men on paths that led away from crime to ones that led to success and the building of men who go on to make positive contributions to the society. Over the years, the organization has evolved to assist not just boys and young men, but women and even older persons within the community.
Also on hand for the groundbreaking ceremony was Minister for Grand Bahama, Hon. Ginger Moxey, who has known Dudley and Katie Seide and the work they’ve been doing through Reach Out Ministries for over twenty years.
She reflected on a time, while at the Grand Bahama Port Authority Dudley and Katie had stopped by seeking assistance for a project they were set to launch. Recognizing the work which the couple had already been doing within the community, Minister Moxey told them at the time that it was important to strengthen the organization and help it achieve more good in the community.
The groundbreaking for the proposed Youth Center represented a proud moment for her.
“Dudley and Katie’s dedication to Grand Bahama’s youth has made a meaningful, lasting impact across this island,” said Minister Moxey. “And today, you take that commitment even further. This facility is more than bricks and mortar. It is a safe space, a hub of opportunity, where young minds are sharpened, families are strengthened, second chances are granted and futures become brighter. A place where education, mentorship, recreation and resources will nurture their potential.
“When we invest in our youth, we secure the possibility, growth and prosperity of our entire community. The Davis Administration is encouraged by initiatives like this because they align with our national vision for youth development and community advancement.
“This project reflects the power of collaboration, vision and perseverance. The work Dudley and his partners are doing cannot be measured. The lives that they have impacted cannot be truly measured. And they continue to go above and beyond to reach everyone in Grand Bahama.”
Minister Moxey said she looked forward to seeing the impact the new youth facility will have on Grand Bahama and is excited about the opportunities it will create for Grand Bahamian youth.
