Eastern Caribbean students attend first-ever ECCU Youth LEAD Conference for secondary schools

Over 300 students representing 40 schools from across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) are now more self-aware of their potential to be leaders, after having attended the first-ever ECCU Youth LEAD Conference for secondary schools on 19 January. The forum was conducted via videoconference It allowed Parliamentarians, representatives of business and educators, to share insights on leadership & entrepreneurship with the students and teachers in attendance.
 
In his welcoming remarks, The Honourable Shawn Richards, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, St Kitts and Nevis, reminded the students that innovation begins with them. He encouraged them to maximise the opportunities available for their self-development and that of their respective countries. Senator Winston Garraway, Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Religious Affairs of Grenada, who delivered the opening remarks, challenged the students to place learning, self-empowerment and that of others, achievement of goals & self-development, as the basis of their growth & success.  
 
The challenging yet rewarding journey of entrepreneurship and leadership was highlighted by the presenters as they encouraged the students to tap into their creative side to become problem solvers and innovators; to purse their passion, to plan their success in a systematic and disciplined manner, to seek out business partners and mentors who share their vision and values.
 
Additionally, several hands-on activities afforded the students opportunities to share experiences and network with their peers from across the region. In their evaluation of the Conference, the students echoed sentiments such as: “I never thought I could be a leader”. “I am thinking now of the possibility of entrepreneurship”. “It helped me focus on my talents and how I can develop those talents into forming a business”.