Scott Bradley, founder and program director of My Brother’s Workshop (MBW), has announced his retirement, while Chrystie Payne will step into the position as the new program director.
After years of dedicated service, Bradley has made a lasting impact on the organization and the community, and his vision has shaped MBW into what it is today. He will be greatly missed, but MBW will always honor and remember his remarkable accomplishments and contributions. Upon Bradley’s retirement as program director, he will take a seat on the MBW Board of Directors to allow for a smooth transition, as he will still be a part of MBW’s mission, according to the press release.
“It’s been an honor and a pleasure to serve the community of the Virgin Islands since 2007. Thank you to all who have supported MBW and the young men and women that we have worked with. I will cherish the memories of being a part of helping young Virgin Islanders build a better life. I have confidence that MBW will continue to grow while maintaining the integrity of the program under the new leadership. May God bless the USVI,” Bradley said.
As they embark on this new chapter, MBW is pleased to announce the succession plan that will ensure the continued success and integrity of the organization. Stepping into Bradley’s esteemed position as program director will be Chrystie Payne, the press release stated.
Payne has been a vital part of the MBW team since 2018, initially serving as communications manager, then development director, and later as assistant program director. Her work has involved coordinating numerous events, building strong relationships with staff and students, and engaging deeply with various MBW committees. Through these efforts, Payne has established valuable connections with government agencies and non-profits throughout the USVI. In addition to her work with MBW, Payne serves as the secretary on the State Rehabilitation Council, demonstrating her dedication to ensuring that every voice is heard. Her deep commitment to MBW’s mission and her extensive experience within the organization make her the perfect choice to lead MBW forward, the release stated.
In addition, Julius Jackson will move into the role of assistant program director. Jackson has been an invaluable asset to MBW since joining the team in 2016 as the leader of the MBW Cafe and Bakery, where his deep passion for youth development and the community shines through in every aspect of his work. Committed to making a difference in the lives of young people in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Jackson actively engages with program participants, serving as both a mentor and a positive role model while emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships. His leadership at the Cafe and Bakery has led to the implementation of valuable training programs that equip youth with essential skills in culinary arts, customer service, and entrepreneurship. As he transitions into the role of assistant program director, he is excited to expand his impact and work closely with the team to further support and empower the youth in our community, exemplifying his inspiring commitment to making a lasting difference in their lives, according to the release.
Jenny Hawkes will continue her vital role as executive director, a position she has held since 2014. Hawke’s leadership has been instrumental in the growth and development of the organization, and they are confident that under her guidance, MBW will thrive.
“MBW would not be here without Scott Bradley. We are so thankful for his labor of love for our youth. Along with the new program director, Chrystie Payne, and the new assistant program director, Julius Jackson, we extend our gratitude for the service that Scott has done for MBW and all past and present students. Even though change is often regarded as scary, Scott has chosen a great team to lead the programs of MBW. We look forward to continuing to serve the community by offering hope and faith to all young people,” Hawkes said.
The MBW board members, committee members, staff, and students thank Bradley for his unwavering dedication and wish him all the best in his retirement. Together, they look forward to building on the strong foundation he has established and continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of young people in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the release stated.
My Brother’s Workshop is a non-profit Virgin Islands charitable corporation. It has been organized to provide hope, faith, and purpose to at-risk and high-risk USVI youth by offering mentoring, mental health counseling, paid job training, education, and job placement.
