The Antigua and Barbuda National Scout Association officially hosted a Scouts Leadership Training Programme at the Conference Centre, Camp Blizzard, Headquarters of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF).
The event marked a significant step forward in building leadership capacity within the organization. The activity is supported by the virtual presence of Governor General and Chief Scout, Sir Rodney Williams, who addressed the opening exercises speaking from England, the birthplace of the Scouting movement.
The training brought together 24 participants, including existing Scout Leaders and individuals who have volunteered to serve as future leaders. The sessions were facilitated by two experienced World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) Consultants:
– Laura Baldassari of Uruguay, an educator and expert in the Safe from Harm programme, who works with a Montevideo-based NGO focused on youth development; and
– Luis Gonzales of Ecuador, a former National Chief Commissioner with eight years of national service and expertise in the Global Support Assessment Tool (GSAT).
In his virtual address, Sir Rodney commended the initiative and emphasized the need to create a culture of safety, service, and integrity in Scouting. “Let this training be a catalyst—not just for personal growth, but for strengthening the movement in Antigua and Barbuda,” he said. He thanked the international consultants for their generous commitment and expertise.
Chief Commissioner Patricia Salmon expressed her satisfaction with the training outcomes and the quality of engagement from the facilitators. “We are truly grateful to Laura and Luis for their energy, insights, and professionalism. Their contributions have been invaluable,” she said. “We also thank our Chief Scout for his consistent support of youth and volunteer development.”
The training focused on equipping leaders with tools to foster youth protection, strengthen organizational accountability, and uphold the values of the global Scouting movement.
