Youth In Focus for National Youth Week

Observer News Desk
National Youth Week 2026 officially opened on Sunday with a Service of Praise and Worship at the Salvation Army’s Central Citadel Corps.
Speaking under this year’s theme, “Building Intentionally: Youth in Motion,” the Minister of State in the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, Kiz Johnson, said meaningful youth development cannot be left to chance, but must be driven by deliberate planning, investment and a clear sense of purpose.
“Youth in Motion reminds us that our young people are not standing still. They are moving forward, innovating and shaping the future of our nation,” Johnson said.
National Youth Week runs through August 14, with a series of activities involving the Department of Youth Affairs, partner divisions and youth-focused organisations.
The week is intended to move beyond simply celebrating young people by placing greater focus on purpose, opportunity, participation and the role youth can play in shaping Antigua and Barbuda’s future.
Director of the Department of Youth Affairs, Dr Jrucilla Samuel called on employers, institutions and other sectors of society to give young people genuine opportunities, particularly access to decent work that allows them to develop professionally and become economically independent.
“You do not have to have your entire life figured out to start moving in the right direction,” Percival said.
National Youth Ambassador Christal Percival delivered a message directly to her peers, reminding them that they do not need to have every aspect of their future planned before taking the first step.
“You do not have to have your entire life figured out to start moving in the right direction,” Percival said.
She also encouraged young people not to allow age, titles or their present circumstances to determine what they believe they can accomplish.
“Your age does not disqualify you from making an impact. And your current circumstances do not determine the limits of your future,” she said.
National Youth Week is intended to move beyond simply celebrating young people by placing greater
focus on purpose, opportunity, participation and the role youth can play in shaping Antigua and Barbuda’s future.