Young People Take Centre Stage: SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA – 25 May 2024 – The future of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is in capable hands. On Friday over 80 passionate young delegates from across the Caribbean, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean and South China Sea (AIS) kicked off the groundbreaking SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit in Antigua and Barbuda. United under the theme “Small Islands: Big Dreams,” these young leaders are ready to shape a brighter future for their communities.

This inaugural event, championed by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Ashley Lashley Foundation and UNICEF, empowers young people to become effective changemakers. Over the next two days, participants will delve into critical themes like environmental sustainability, building safe and prosperous societies, and achieving resilient recovery. Interactive workshops, discussions, and project development will equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle pressing challenges.

A pivotal moment for SIDS

The official opening ceremony, held at Government House, under the patronage of Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, marked a turning point. Sir Rodney declared the summit "a historic occasion for Antigua and Barbuda," highlighting its importance in empowering future leaders to build a more resilient and sustainable future.

UNICEF/ANelson: Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda Sir Rodney Williams delivering remarks at the official opening of the SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit.

UNICEF Representative for the Eastern Caribbean, Pieter Bult, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the vital role young people play.

"The urgency of the climate crisis, poverty in SIDS, and persistent violence in some regions demands fresh solutions from young minds," said the UNICEF Representative.

"These challenges require innovative thinking, and this summit provides a platform for exactly that."

Executive Director of the Ashley Lashley Foundation, Ashley Lashley, said the inaugural summit was conceptualized two years ago to amplify the voices of young people, which had been overlooked "for too long". 

Building teams, addressing challenges

The summit commenced with a symbolic team-building activity – a tree planting eco tour at South Coast Horizons, fostering environmental awareness and symbolizing delegates’ shared commitment to conservation and a sustainable future for SIDS. 

UNICEF/ANelson: Jean Luc Constantine from Saint Luca and Kavish Seedam from Mauritius participating in the tree planting event.

Young leaders share their dreams

These young participants are brimming with enthusiasm for the impact they will make. Jean Luc from Saint Lucia expressed his excitement to "work with vibrant people around the world" and develop solutions for a better future. 

Nianna St. Claire from Montserrat aspires to see the projects developed translated into action and build valuable connections. 

Tamarua Marsters, from the Cook Islands, highlighted the importance of networking and sharing experiences to find global solutions for young people everywhere.

UNICEF Pacific: Tamarua Marsters, from the Cook Islands, highlighted the importance of networking and sharing experiences to find global solutions for young people everywhere.

The SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit concludes on May 26th with the adoption of a "Commitment to Action" document. This document, formulated by the young delegates themselves, will be presented to world leaders at the upcoming 4th International SIDS Conference. It commits young people and governments to taking action to address the most pressings issues from SIDS children and youth.