Key takeaway: Antigua and Barbuda’s youth are not just participants of the 2026 ECOSOC Youth Forum; they are leaders shaping the future of sustainable development, proving that small states can make a big impact on the world stage.
Antigua and Barbuda is making waves on the global stage with its largest-ever youth delegation at the 2026 Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum, held April 14–16 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Under the theme “Transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated actions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs for a sustainable future for all,” the delegation is showcasing the power of Caribbean youth to drive change.
A Delegation of Trailblazers
Led by Dr Jrucilla Samuel, Director of Youth Affairs, the team includes
- National Youth Ambassadors: Christal Percival, Amelia Williams, Kristine Louisa, and Shacia Albertine
- National Youth Volunteer Corps: Sara Bacchus (General Secretary) and Esquire Henry (former CARICOM Youth Ambassador)
Together, they represent the vibrancy, creativity, and resilience of Antigua and Barbuda’s next generation.
Inspiring Voices on the Global Stage
The Forum opened with a powerful presentation by Dr Samuel, who emphasised the importance of workforce rejuvenation:
“Workforce rejuvenation is not simply the next cycle of recruitment. It is a deliberate strategy to revitalise institutions through cognitive diversity… By uniting the insight of veteran staff with the creativity and digital fluency of youth, we strengthen our capacity to confront the world’s most pressing challenges.”
She also underscored the need for sustainable leadership, calling for investments in education, mentorship, and values-driven development.
Caribbean Youth in Action
- Day Two Highlights:
- Amelia Williams spoke on Empowering Caribbean Youth to Innovate, Unite and Transform.
- Kristine Louisa presented on SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- Esquire Henry moderated the Caribbean Regional Breakout Session.
Day Three Spotlight:
Christal Percival showcased Antigua and Barbuda’s initiatives on SDG 11.
Building Bridges for SIDS
The delegation also met with Ambassador Aubrey Webson, Permanent Representative to the UN, who encouraged them to remain steadfast advocates for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). He praised their work in sustainability, education, health, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, while highlighting the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) as a blueprint for resilience and data-driven progress.
