Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 12, 2011 (SKNIS) -  Commonwealth Youth Ambassadors Azard Gumbs and Isalean Phillip recently revealed that they expected a progressive year for youth achievement in 2011.
 

In a statement to the general public, the ambassadors called on the public to support the efforts of positive youth who are conducting themselves admirably in their respective spheres of influence, and to focus on youths’ strengths instead of their risk factors.
 

Commenting on the importance of youth to nation building, Azard reiterated the impact of their involvement in the decision making process as well as public discussion and debate in helping to shape policy that ensures that all youth are ready for college, work and life.
 

“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,” said Gumbs.
 

He added that youth must be activists and should not become disheartened and shamed into inaction when challenged by circumstances but should rather, develop the drive to overcome and persevere and become contributing adults.