On Saturday at the Sir Rupert Briercliffe Hall, young people from around the territory will hear from former gang members about the harsh realities of gang life.

Members of Project Lion Heart and officials of the Ministry of Education and Culture made this announcement during a press conference on Monday while unveiling Youth Rally 2011, themed “Stand Out.”

Former United States gang members Joseph Jennings and Alfred Lomas will share their experiences during the rally, which is geared toward helping young people make positive decisions in life, according to Mitch Turnbull, a member of Project Lion Heart.

The Virgin Islands-based mentoring programme started in 2005, according to Mr. Turnbull, a Virgin Islander. Since its start, the programme has mentored about 16 young men in the territory, the organiser said.

See the May 5, 2011 edition for full coverage.