Day one of the Seventh Annual National Conference on Youth and Development took place on December 9th at La Vue Hotel in South Hill. This year’s theme was, “Empowering youth through dialogue, training and advocacy.” Ms. Dwynette Eversley and Ms. Heather Hale, facilitated the training which included the role of advocacy, building and understanding advocacy, and knowledge and skills in planing and implementing a community-based advocacy campaign.
A special song selection played by musician Mr. Omari Banks, “Still We Blame It On The Youth,” inspired listeners during the opening ceremony bridging the gap between generations.
Addressing the gathering, the Director of Youth and Culture, Mr. Bren Romney, remarked: “Together all young persons here this morning represent the full spectrum of Anguillian society. We have some seventy-five participants representing academia, business, government and civic society. Your presence here, and cooperation, is so important to the work that we do for your own personal development and to Anguilla’s continued national development.
“We meet at a time when our countries are undergoing significant hardships. On a national level, we continue to chart through rough economic seas without an end in sight. We question the durability of traditional institutions and their ability to shape and model our nation’s future young men and women.
“We are awed by the lack of interest in issues…or conflicts by members of our society. I’m sure, on a personal level, many of you are concerned about the nature and type of opportunities that will be available to your generation. We are also cognizant of the societal ills that continue to chip away the peace that our communities have enjoyed for decades… the carnage that weapons leave behind… In the midst of all of this we are being hopeful.” The conference was made possible by the longlasting friendships with the Anguilla Department of Youth and Culture, the Anguilla National Youth Council, the National Youth Ambassador Corps and the Commonwealth Youth Program.
Article by Josharmond Romney
