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In his address, Sir Rodney emphasized that youth leadership is not preparation for the future, it is essential to transformation now. He referenced the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), the foundation document that arose from the historic SIDS4 conference in Antigua and Barbuda, as a framework for placing young people at the center of resilient prosperity for Small Island Developing States.
His Excellency expressed appreciation to Ambassador Walton Webson, Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, Consular Officer Michelle Lightfoot and Mr. Daniel Lee, President of the International WeLoveU Foundation United States Chapter for their initiative and coordinating roles in the important exercise.
He also commended the two youth representatives from Antigua and Barbuda, Mr. Kamalie Mannix and Ms. Latisha Brown, praising their enthusiasm and active engagement as participants in the forum.
The various partners who facilitated Antigua and Barbuda’s in-person engagement were also singled out for praise by His Excellency.
A commemorative photograph following the Forum captured Their Excellencies alongside Ambassador Webson, Mr. Mannix, Ms. Brown, and Mr. Lee — symbolizing intergenerational partnership and shared commitment to peacebuilding and sustainable development.
The day’s engagements showcased Antigua and Barbuda’s continued active presence within multilateral dialogue at the highest level. Through participation in both the Women and Girls in Science Assembly and the Youth Empowerment Forum, Their Excellencies reinforced the nation’s commitment to Gender equity in STEM and artificial intelligence, Disability-inclusive innovation, Youth leadership in climate resilience and volunteerism and sustainable development for Small Island Developing States.
As the international community enters the final years of the 2030 Agenda, Antigua and Barbuda remains steadfast in its advocacy for inclusive progress that leaves no one behind.
