On Monday, February 10, 2025, Youth Development and National Service Minister, the Honourable Foster Cummings, engaged the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors and Youth Councils’ Executives representing Trinidad, and Tobago, in insightful conversation at the La Horquetta Public Library.
Minister Cummings zoned in on the significant work these young leaders are doing, to shed light on the profound impact their responsibilities have had on young people in Trinidad and Tobago and across the region, as well as their own lives. Cummings noted that their collective efforts underscore the significance of youth involvement in policy-making; the alignment of their work to the National Youth Policy of Trinidad and Tobago; and their commitment to making meaningful changes for future generations.
The Trinidad and the Tobago Youth Councils and the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors are providing vital platforms for young people to be heard, especially in the areas of education and capacity building.
CARICOM Youth Ambassadors – Trinidad, Ms. Samantha Rampersad, said her responsibilities include, “Bridging young people and CARICOM, so they gain the knowledge and opportunities for young people to make contributions to policies that effect local and regional changes.” Rampersad advised young people, “Own the space you are in and don’t be afraid to use your voice, it is the most powerful thing you have.”
CARICOM Youth Ambassador – Tobago, Mr. Luke James-Trim, sees young people’s employment in other CARICOM states, “Not as brain drain but rather, as them contributing to other CARICOM islands, since we are a connected body.” Trim encouraged young people, “Never be afraid to network with your peers nearest you, as doing so mirrors CARICOM integration, working together towards a common purpose.”
Minister Cummings asked the Youth Council Executives to share their experiences, and what areas of change they would like to see. Trinidad Youth Council President, Mr. Shane John responded that, “The Council is a Youth-led organization serving all youth across the island, ensuring that their voices are heard in the Implementation of Youth Policies, such as, the National Youth Policy of Trinidad and Tobago 2020-2025.” John further expressed that, “Consideration should be given to revitalizing and re-engineering the education system to cater to young persons who are struggling with SEA and CAPE subjects, by integrating Programmes offered by the MYDNS such as, Youth and Women in Agriculture and National Service.”
Tobago Youth Council General Secretary, Mr. Delano Joefield, said, “The umbrella organization is established to provide guidance to Youth and bridge the gap between government bodies; Central Government; The Tobago House of Assembly and Youth organizations.”
Joefield highlighted that, “In Tobago, we deal with capacity building for young persons and Youth-led organizations, using the strength of organisations with initiatives such as the Career Catalyst Programme, to provide training and career guidance. I am pleased to see the MYDNS developing human capital through collaboration with the University of West Indies, giving Youths the opportunity to develop themselves.” He added, “Young people should get involved in the Youth Council for the right reasons. It looks good when we are dressed well and travel for Conferences, but it is hard work in contributing to the development of young persons who are expected to leave the country better than we got it.”
Minister Cummings expressed to the Youth panel how proud he was of their work, and ended the conversation stating, “It was a pleasure chatting with brilliant young people who are doing excellent work for young people. I want to commend you and thank you, and your families for supporting you, and giving you time to do this very important job.”
The Ministry of Youth Development and National Service remains committed to bringing all stakeholders together to promote youth development and encourages civic-minded citizens to contribute to National Service across Trinidad and Tobago.
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