The historic inaugural SIDS4 Child and Youth Action Summit (CYAS), a
pivotal gathering for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), concluded
successfully in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday. This milestone event,
organized by the Ashley Lashley Foundation, UNICEF, and the Government of
Antigua and Barbuda, brought together over eighty delegates from the
Caribbean, the Atlantic, Indian Ocean and South-China Seas (AIS), and Pacific
regions.
The summit’s goal was to create a robust Commitment to Action document.
This document lays out concrete steps stakeholders are prepared to take across
thematic areas such as Safe and Prosperous Societies, Resilient Economies,
Secure Future, Environmental Integrity, and Planetary Sustainability. Each
regional group presented a project aimed at tackling specific challenges faced
by their communities.
Caleb Gardiner, representative of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and
Chair of the National Steering Committee, highlighted the importance of youth
involvement in solving regional issues. This summit not only fosters dialogue
but is a testament to the power of inclusive youth engagement in crafting
sustainable futures for our islands, Gardiner said. He further praised the
organising teams comprehensive agenda and collective efforts, emphasizing the
overarching benefits to Antigua and Barbuda. The Summit was further
supported by the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United
Nations through Claxton Duberry and Asha Challenger.
Ashley Lashley, Executive Director of The Ashley Lashley Foundation,
expressed her motivation for initiating the summit, "Our youth face myriad
challenges daily, and it is crucial that they are integral to our decision-making
processes. This summit aims to be a beacon of unity and action for SIDS youth,
setting the stage for annual gatherings that drive substantial change."
The summit unfolded over several days, featuring workshops, panel discussions,
and networking sessions designed to forge actionable pathways for the future.
Gardiner extended his gratitude to his steering committee, including members
from the Department of Youth Affairs, the Department of Environment, Sanka
Riley from the Office of the Prime Minister, and May-Olga Browne from the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, commending their dedication and commitment.
Special thanks were also given to Assistant Superintendent of Police Jeffrey
Morgan, in charge of major events, and Devon Graham, in charge of the traffic
department, alongside Shawn Greenidge, Director of Antigua and Barbuda
Emergency Medical Services, the University of the West Indies Five Islands
Campus and Candier Lewis of South Coast Horizon, for their exemplary
leadership and responsiveness throughout the summit.
This groundbreaking summit marks the beginning of a transformative journey
for SIDS, with the youth at the helm of advocating for and implementing
sustainable solutions across their regions.
