The Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry partnered with the Ministry of Human Services to launch the BRAVE Centre, a groundbreaking initiative empowering men and youth, supported by West Central Mall’s generous donation.
-- The Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) Chamber of Commerce and Industry (R3CCI) is proud to announce the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) to launch the groundbreaking BRAVE Centre at the West Central Mall, Leonora. This monumental partnership underscores a shared commitment to supporting men and youth in the region, fostering empowerment, healing, and personal growth.
The BRAVE Centre—which stands for “Build your legacy, Reclaim manhood, Activate goals, Visualise success, and Execute fearlessly”—was ”officially commissioned on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. This initiative is part of the national BRAVE policy, launched just a month prior, which seeks to actively involve men and boys in combating gender-based violence, promoting emotional well-being, and reshaping traditional gender norms. https://www.r3cci.org/about
The establishment of the BRAVE Centre has been made possible by the remarkable generosity of the West Central Mall, a member of Region Three Chamber of Commerce, that donated the space rent-free for an entire year. This in-kind donation reflects the local business community’s dedication to creating a safe, confidential, and judgment-free environment for men and youth to thrive.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, President of the Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Managing Director of the West Central Mall, Bhabita Albert, expressed the private sector’s deep commitment to this initiative. “In today’s society, men are expected to be nurturing husbands, fathers, breadwinners, and protectors of the family. These responsibilities are only achievable with positive mental health and emotional well-being. The BRAVE Centre offers men a space to express themselves, gain new perspectives, and develop strategies to tackle life’s challenges,” she remarked.
The BRAVE Centre serves a dual purpose:
- Men’s Empowerment Hub: A supportive environment where men can engage in counseling, share their experiences, and redefine their sense of manhood.
- Youth-Friendly Space: A resource hub for children and teenagers to receive homework assistance, counseling, and other forms of support.
The initiative was described as “historic” by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between domestic violence and the emotional well-being of men. “Men need a space to share, heal, and be held accountable. The BRAVE Centre is not about stereotypes or labels—it’s about supporting men in redefining themselves and taking responsibility for their actions,” Dr. Persaud asserted.
Dr. Cona Husbands, Manager of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit at the MHSSS, echoed these sentiments, stating, “This space creates opportunities for men to heal and grow while fostering accountability. It is a testament to how community engagement can drive meaningful change.”
The event, which was attended by regional stakeholders and private-sector representatives, also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in addressing critical social issues. The Chamber of Commerce extended its gratitude to all members and staff who attended or contributed to the event, demonstrating their unwavering support for this transformative initiative.
The R3CCI and MHSSS are calling on other business owners and community leaders to emulate the example set by West Central Mall. By supporting initiatives like the BRAVE Centre, businesses can contribute to creating a healthier, more inclusive society where men and youth are empowered to succeed.
The BRAVE policy is a national framework designed to redefine traditional concepts of manhood, encouraging men and boys to embrace emotional intelligence, accountability, and community leadership. This initiative seeks to shift the narrative from viewing men solely as perpetrators of violence to recognizing them as agents of positive change.
The Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, the West Central Mall, and all attendees for their shared vision and commitment to this groundbreaking initiative. Together, the Chamber is supporting the building of a brighter future for Region Three, the Epicenter of Opportunities.
For further information, please contact:
The Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Email: r3cci.gy@gmail.com
Phone: +592-630-7050
Contact Info:
Name: Theon Alleyne
Email: Send Email
Organization: The Region Three Essequibo Islands-West Demerara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (R3CCI)
Address: West Central Mall - Office Floor Track 4-6, Groenveldt, Leonora, West Coast Demerara 11111, Guyana
Phone: +592-618-0644
Website: https://www.facebook.com/r3cci
Source: PressCable
Release ID: 89165590
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