To the remarkable young people of Antigua and Barbuda, including the vibrant youth of St. John’s Rural South
Today, on International Youth Day, we celebrate you, not just as the leaders of tomorrow but as leaders of today. You are trusted. You are seen. You are not lost. You are not forgotten.
We have faith in you. Whatever hurdles life places before you, whether personal challenges or national struggles, know that you have the resilience, strength, and wisdom to rise above them. You are not only learners but also teachers. Your awareness, courage, and commitment to sustainable living inspire us all to see the world differently and to live with greater purpose. For that, we thank you. You have shown us that our future is in capable and caring hands.
I see so many of you leading with strength and vision; in our Youth Parliament, in dynamic youth organizations across Antigua and Barbuda, and in community groups that are making a difference every day. I see you in St. John’s Rural South, working hard, organizing, mentoring, and building a better community. Whether through advocacy, volunteerism, or creating opportunities for others, you are demonstrating that leadership begins now, not years from now.
Through recent years of trials, whether in the face of economic hardship, global uncertainty, or social challenges, you have shown determination and creativity. You have adapted, innovated, and proven that you can lead with courage even in the toughest of times.
This year’s International Youth Day theme, Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond, reminds us that young people are already making a difference in their communities, turning vision into action. Whether through protecting the environment, creating opportunities, speaking out against injustice, or building stronger communities, your work is shaping a better Antigua and Barbuda and sending a message to the world that our youth are powerful forces for change.
Leadership is not just about age; it is about vision and responsibility. Our nation is strongest when generations work together, hand in hand, learning from each other. You are not simply the future of Antigua and Barbuda, you are its heartbeat right now.
To those who say this is a lost generation, I say you are not lost. You are rising, you are leading, and you are proving every day that you have the power to transform the future. I believe in you, and I know many others who believe in you as well.
So take your place as leaders. Let your voices be heard. Let your actions speak for you. Lead with courage, compassion, and determination, not just for yourselves but for the generations that will follow. The future is here, and it begins with you.
Stand tall. Lead boldly. Make Antigua and Barbuda proud.
With faith and gratitude,
Jermaine N. Edwards
Community Advocate, St. John’s Rural South
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
