THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE RECENTLY-held Prime Minister Youth awards showcased and highlighted some of the most creative and intelligent young minds in the island. As an 18 year-old male, I must say that I was truly proud to see the men receiving awards for their contribution to this country.

I was especially pleased to see my fellow Excelsorians Randy McLaren and Joseph Collington receiving awards for their contribution to the arts. These are the type of role models that more young men should have. Instead of looking to the deejays, we, as young men, should find good examples within our peer groups and seek to emulate them.

Many of the older folks in society seem to have 'given up' on males in this generation. To be honest, we are to be blamed. We are the ones who do most of the killing and, as a consequence, we are usually stereotyped.

For the sake of our blessed nation, I implore the young men of this country to strive for excellence and avoid the violence. All is not lost. We, as young men, need to set a standard for the future generation to follow, where men refuse to settle for mediocrity and live in peace with one another.

I am, etc.,

RUSSAINE BERRY

jonoy_26@hotmail.com

Ziadie Gardens

Kingston 20