Downtown Kingston generally struggles under the yoke of negativity. From the ramshackle slums to the tapestry of fear triggered by crime and violence, 'Town' isn't exactly a place showered with auspicious epithets.

But emerging from the shadow of gloom are future nation changers - for the better. Amid the darkness, their stories of determination are as inspiring - and incredible - as a flickering candle in a howling storm.

The Stanley Couch Gym, located on East Queen Street in the capital, is for many inner-city youth boxers an oasis of optimism, imbuing them with pride, self-confidence and, most of all, hope.

Open to all at virtually no cost, the boxing gym is a force which has grounded these kids, insulating them from the distractions of delinquency.

Feast on these knockout shots by Staff Photographer Ricardo Makyn.

CAPTIONS:

(1) Shaquille Linton, a 14-year-old student of Calabar Primary and Junior High, is currently the junior bantamweight champion in Jamaica - My fight is in the ring. Boxing is my way of staying off the streets.

(2) Saha-Gaye Fowler, an amateur female boxer for a year - I box because of the discipline of the sport. It motivates me.

(3) Kingsley Goodison (second left), manager of the Stanley Couch Gym, watches his inner-city charges as they go through their routine - I do this to keep the youngsters occupied.

(4) Fana Walker is 19 years old and is determined to live much longer - I promised my mother, before she died, I would not get involved in gangs.

(5) Ricardo Planter, a middleweight pugilist, shadow-boxes in a corner of the gym - I love the sport of boxing because I had early success with it and decided to stick to it.