PAVE Centre

Based in Port Antonio, Jamaica, the Portland Arts and Vocational Education (PAVE) Centre transforms at-risk youth in Portland and surrounding community into self-sufficient adults through self-worth, life skill and vocational training. PAVE creates customized training classes that provide students with the training, mentoring and hands-on experience needed to succeed in their vocation of choice.

The class offerings for the inaugural year focused on the Hospitality sector because the tourism industry is critical to the Jamaican economy, and industry partners have highlighted the need for well trained professionals in and around Portland.  It was a universal success as each graduate had at least two job interviews upon graduation, 40% of students had jobs before graduation, 80% of students have secured employment since graduation. Eleven industry partners and three community partners contribute to the organization’s success.

SEE is working with PAVE to create a new school and training center on the East Harbor of Port Antonio.