Johnson explained that creating opportunities is not enough if people continue to face obstacles that prevent them from taking advantage of them. She pointed to challenges such as poverty, parenting responsibilities and abusive relationships that can affect access to education and employment.

The minister highlighted the Youth Education and Empowerment Programme (YEEP), which provides participants with support that includes childcare and counselling. The programme recorded an overall pass rate of 96.5% in the 2026 CSEC and CAPE examinations, according to Johnson.She also discussed the Entrepreneurial Development Fund, which assists people seeking to establish or expand businesses. The initiative is intended to help entrepreneurs with viable ideas who may struggle to secure traditional bank financing because of limited collateral or financial history.

Johnson stressed the importance of combining education, practical support and access to business financing to help individuals build more secure futures.