The power of youth is the common wealth for the entire Cayman Islands, to paraphrase a celebrated quote. That is why the Caymanian Times has always lauded our amazing, conscientious youngsters and all their wonderful achievements. From teenagers to millennials, we applaud you all and throughout 2023 we are devoting immense coverage to celebrate the abundance of talent and endeavour repeatedly evidenced in our wonderful three islands.
The Cayman Islands has always had a progressive attitude to enhancing opportunities for its youth which is why the Caymanian Times is making that one of its priorities this year. We fully support the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage and its affiliate the National Youth Commission in announcing the appointment of the Cayman Islands CARICOM Youth Ambassadors.
For the next two years Caymanians Vanessa Burke, Chad Powell Jr, and alternates Destiny Dalley and Juan Pablo Valerio are members of a regional network of young Caribbean nationals mandated to advocate for and educate their peers on local and regional youth priorities identified by the NYC and the CARICOM Secretariat.
These are four astute appointments. That’s why NYC Chair Dr Ruthlyn Pomares said: “Our appointees are well-qualified and are committed to continue being change agents, seeking out the opinions of other youth in Cayman on issues which affect them.” She added that the NYC is looking forward to working with the appointees and hearing their ideas.
Minister for Youth, Bernie Bush, a life-long supporter of adolescent activities, also endorsed them. “Since our youth will one day lead this nation, we want them represented in local, regional and international forums by capable and motivated young persons. Our CYAs and CYA Alternates are passionate, determined, and ready to engage and empower our young people.”
All their credentials are impeccable. Burke, a John Gray High School graduate, has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of Liverpool. A former member of the Youth Parliament and Junior Achievement of the Cayman Islands, Vanessa currently supports several local not-for-profit organisations and is the Cayman Islands Our Little Miss.
Dalley, a Clifton Hunter High School graduate, is studying for a Bachelor of Science in Primary Education from the UCCI. Destiny has volunteered for various charitable entities such as the Jasmine Hospice and the Family Resource Centre. A member of the Alex Panton Foundation’s Youth Ambassador programme, she is currently the Cayman Islands Our Little Miss.
Powell Jr is an Associate’s degree scholar in Arts and Social Sciences at UCCI. The Clifton Hunter High School graduate is a member of several youth organisations including the Alex Panton Foundation’s Youth Ambassador programme, Protect Our Future, and Youth Parliament.
Valerio is studying for an Associate’s degree in Business Administration at UCCI. The John Gray High School graduate’s interests include the Cayman Islands Scouts Association, the Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme, and Save Our Youth.
The Caymanian Times will be 100% behind them and all the other high flying youngsters.
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