Basseterre, St. Kitts- “We hope to bridge the gap between youth organizations in the Federation”, said the President of the St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association (SKNYPA), Mr. Azard Gumbs, at a cocktail held last Sunday 1st November 2015, in commemoration of Youth Month (November), at the Governor General’s residence, Springfield, Basseterre.
The cocktail, which was hosted by SKNYPA under the patronage of the Governor General, His Excellency S. W. Tapley Seaton CVO, QC, JP, saw representation from other youth organizations in the Federation, the Student Government Associations (SGA) from the various high schools around St. Kitts as well as young entrepreneurs.
In brief remarks, Mr. Gumbs stated that “This cocktail this evening is in recognition of us as young people, the work that we do. SKNYPA wishes to celebrate Youth. We wish to recognize the contributions of other young people. Many of youpresent this evening are youth leaders, whether in your community, school or church. Many of you volunteer your time, your talent to a cause greater than yourselves. We encourage you to continue the good work, especially in a time when young people are often seen or spoken of negatively.”
He indicated that this year’s youth month is celebrated under the theme ‘Give youth a voice and inspire Greatness’.
He added, “When we think of the theme we recognise the importance of young people in nation building and policy making, we are reminded of the purpose of the National Youth Parliament Association. We are reminded of the vast potential that we possess as young people. We have the ability to be great. Often we forget that we are capable of achieving great things. We have the creativity and the energy to solve many of our society’s most difficult problems. We have the ability to shape the world into the place we want it to be. Our potential is limitless.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Youth, Hon. Shawn Richards attended the event along with the Director of Youth and Honorary Member to the Association, Mr. Geofrey Hanley and the Advisor to the Youth Department, Mr. Vernon Connor. Ambassador Sam Condor, and Charles Wilkin QC were also in attendance.
SKNYPA officially launched on September 13th 2001 and has been in existence for fourteen (14) years. During its tenure, it has tackled issues surrounding tourism, education, climate change, electoral matters, national security and health. To this date we pride ourselves as the main youth group within the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis that advocates on behalf of young people.