Dozens of people who coach, instruct and mentor youths were recognized during a reception held in their honour on Saturday, 1 October.
Cayman Islands youth workers and volunteers were applauded by National Youth Commission (NYC) Chairman Jenny Manderson, JP for their efforts to uplift all children and young people. Also congratulating youth workers from all communities, Youth Minister the Hon. Mark Scotland, JP, said, “We must listen more closely to our young people, and step outside our comfort zones to reach those on the fringes.”
This annual event is part of the regional celebration of Caribbean Youth Day (Friday 30 September). Saturday’s function was one of several positive youth highlights last week, which also included the unveiling of the revised National Youth Policy on Friday by Minister Scotland and Mrs. Manderson.
Speaking of the updated policy document, which was first introduced 12 years ago, Minister Scotland added, “We’re not reinventing the wheel, for there are many good programmes already underway.”
The Minister encouraged continued collaborative efforts between the NYC and government ministries and portfolios, and encouraged private sector companies to become more involved in youth development – citing the ongoing Superior Auto training programme as a good example.
Other dignitaries included National Hero Sybil McLaughlin, MBE, JP; Deputy Governor (Designate) Franz Manderson, MBE; Chief Officer Jennifer Ahearn of the Ministry of Health, Environment, Youth, Sports and Culture; YCLA recipient Natalie Urquart; Miss Cayman Islands Lindsay Japal and Miss Teen Brooke Parchment.
NYC committee members and young parliamentarians – the students who are members of the Youth Assembly – were also present, as were representatives of groups such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award Programme, the Cadet Corps and the Scouting Association. Attendees enjoyed music from a school band, as well as song, dance and skit performances.
