On Friday 8th March the Brian Lara Promenade was buzzing with excitement as young people flocked to the launch of the Ministry of Youth and National Service latest youth initiative, ‘Youth on Stage Talent Search.
The Ministry of Youth Development and National Service hosted Councellor Abena Hartley, Deputy Mayor of Port of Spain, newly appointed alderman, Mr. Kareem Marcelle and Heads within the Ministry of Youth.
The launch started with a Pre-Show in the form of a flash mob, taking patrons by surprise with the dance performance by Lael Dance Academy, accompanied by the drummers of the Point Fortin Iron Giants. Along the Promenade music blasted from the MYDNS’ Big Truck, from which Andre ‘Viking Ding Dong’ Houlder alighted, and encouraged passers-by to join in on the festival of the launch and to register for the Talent Search. While Akil ‘Akil 5.0’ Newton conducted interviews with young patrons entering the arena, young Kaisoca Moko Jumbies pranced around to the amazement of onlookers.
The Youth on Stage Talent Search aims to discover and unveil youth talent across the country and is geared towards citizens between 10-35 years. Permanent Secretary Narine Charran stated, “The MYDNS is providing opportunities for youth to be celebrated.” He added, “The Minister Foster Cummings loves young people and their progress. The MYDNS has many Programmes for our Youth and Youth on Stage, is yet another one that gives our young people the opportunity to show their talent.”
The MYDNS aims to provide youth with energy-packed, youth-led competitions across the country, going to communities in Port of Spain, San Fernando, Arima, Mayaro, Diego Martin, Couva, San Juan, Point Fortin, Toco and La Horquetta. The search is designed to encourage youth talent in categories of song, dance, instrumentals, spoken word, acting and drumology to participate.
Youth Development Coordinator and Chair of the Youth on the Stage Talent Search, Ndale Young noted, “The Honourable Foster Cummings has moved a lot of cloud from over the youth, allowing them the opportunity to win $150,000.00 for their talent.” Continuing he stated, “It’s not about winning the money though; It’s about searching for talent that brings positivity among youth.”
Participants in the Talent Search will be judged by a cadre of professionals in the Performing Arts Industry, who will also conduct training workshops and provide mentorship in preparation, delivery, creativity and presence.
The format of the launch of Youth on Stage Talent Search displayed talents representing what the MYDNS expects in the competition. The gospel artist, Sean Daniel, performed the opening prayer in song. The National Anthem was played on steelpan by pannist Daniel Gulston and the welcome and overview of the Talent Search was performed by poet and spoken word artiste, Derron Sandy.
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