22-Year-Old Shaquan O’Neal Says Senate Appointment Is ‘A Burden’ to Represent Youth
Newly appointed Senator Shaquan O’Neil says he views his historic appointment to the Upper House not as a reward, but as a responsibility to represent the nation’s youth and help create more opportunities for young people across Antigua and Barbuda.
O’Neal, who at 22 became one of the country’s youngest senators, spoke shortly after Friday’s swearing-in ceremony at Government House, where he described himself as “elated” by the appointment.
“I’m honestly elated, given the fact that the Prime Minister placed this trust in me, not only to be in the Senate, but also as one of the youngest senators,” O’Neal said.
Reflecting on remarks made during the ceremony, the new senator said he understands the appointment comes with serious responsibility.
“Not to take these appointments as a reward, but it’s a burden and also a part of the legacy that you must be able to represent — not only the presence of Antigua and Barbuda, but especially the youth,” he said.
O’Neal said one of his immediate goals will be ensuring young people feel included in national discussions and understand the importance of democracy and civic participation.
“One of the first things I want to do, I want to be able to ensure that I provide a space for young persons within the room,” he said. “I think many times you have societies that are not inclusive to the fact that they’re bringing in youth.”
The senator also pointed to youth unemployment and related social issues as key concerns he hopes to address during his tenure in the Upper House.
“Youth unemployment also be a big thing,” O’Neal said. “I want to be able to provide a platform and also advocate for them to get the necessary training and equip themselves with the necessary knowledge so that, when opportunities come, such as employment and also elevation, they are well knowledgeable and equipped to take on the world.”
He added that he hopes to help mainstream programmes aimed at increasing youth participation and awareness around democracy and governance.
Asked about his initial reaction when informed he was being considered for the Senate, O’Neal said he immediately began thinking about the work ahead.
“I was excited, to be honest with you,” he said. “I was mainly just thinking about going on with the business of the government.”
The young senator said he is eager to collaborate with ministers and fellow senators in what he hopes will become “one of the most fruitful tenures” in the country’s history.
“I’m excited to see how much I’ll be able to get done, especially speaking with some of the ministers and my senators as well, to see how best we can just make our tenure one of the most fruitful tenures that you’ve ever seen in Antigua and Barbuda,” O’Neal said.
O’Neal was among 10 government senators sworn in Friday following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s victory in the April 30 general election. He is expected to formally enter the Upper House when the Senate convenes on May 20.
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