BASSETERRE St.Kitts, January 12 2011 - As we roll the curtains down on 2010 and celebrate the dawn of a new year, we must first give thanks and praise to the Almighty God. It is through His never-ending love and protection, we, as the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, can celebrate the start of a new era with renewed hope and vigor. Truly, we have many things to be thankful for. However, in the midst of all the celebrations, we must take a glimpse into the past year, with the view of ensuring that the mistakes of the past are not repeated and that we strive for excellence in this coming year.
As a nation, we sympathize with those who have lost a loved one and those who were made victims by heinous crimes. In the eyes of many, it may appear, as though the youth of today, and indeed our nation have gone astray, this is certainly not so. We must not allow the minority of young people who are involved in criminal activity to overshadow the majority of us, who, day by day, uphold the rule of law, while we battle the tough global economic situation.
It is an open secret that the success of our nation depends strongly on our youth. The United Nations (UN) knows the power and potential of youth. In December 2009, the UN proclaimed 2010 the International Year of Youth under the theme “Dialogue and Mutual Understanding, Our Year, Our Voice”. Indeed, we cannot underscore enough the power compounded within these few words.
As youth we are often considered the problem, often blamed for social ills and often ridiculed for our non-traditional approach in an ever evolving world. However, like the United Nations, the Commonwealth believes that young people are key development partners and that while we represent the future of the Commonwealth, our skills, energy and enthusiasm are needed now, not later. This clearly shows that our importance in development cannot be ignored and our voice must not be muffled. Instead, we must advocate for the things we want to see happen and become activists for positive national, regional and international development. Young people must be involved in every sphere of development.
As 2011 opens its doors to greater possibilities and fresh opportunities there will be challenges, however, do not become discouraged or shamed into inaction, rather, develop the drive to overcome and persevere. Let us always remember our Motto: “Country Above Self,” for if the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is to continue to grow and develop, the intellectual capacity, the energy and willingness of youth will be needed to safeguard our progress.
As your Commonwealth Youth Ambassadors we, Azard Gumbs and Isalean Phillip, wish you all the best of luck and support you in your endeavors for this New Year, as we look forward to advocating with and for you for positive nation building.
