President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has urged Seventh-Day Adventist youth to build lives grounded in purpose and strong values, with a renewed focus on character and integrity.

The president was at the time delivering remarks during the opening of the Seventh day Adventist Caribbean Union Conference Regional Camporee on Tuesday evening.

The Camporee is a regional gathering of Pathfinder clubs from across the Caribbean Union territory, comprising of nations from the Lower Caribbean. The camp runs until Sunday, and offers a stimulating platform for Pathfinders to hone practical and leadership skills in an environment that promotes spiritual growth, training, and fellowship.

President Ali praised the leadership of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Guyana, describing it as visionary and compassionate.

Speaking directly to the youth, he challenged them to use the camp as a turning point in their lives, calling for the emergence of a new generation of leaders modeled after biblical figures. He said the Camporee should produce young people who lead by example, demonstrate integrity, show courage in the face of challenges and act selflessly in service to others.

Reflecting on its growth over the years, the president reminded that the Adventist movement in Guyana dates back to 1887, when missionaries arrived in Georgetown and established the first congregation with just over 30 members.

Despite early hardships, including difficult travel to remote communities, the church expanded steadily, leading to the formation of the Guyana Conference which now boasts more than 200 congregations.

“Great institutions usually have small beginnings,” the head of state pointed out. “Adventism has grown into a global faith community with a clear focus on spiritual development, service and education.

He added that beyond its religious mission, the church has made significant contributions to education, health, youth development and community service, helping to uplift individuals and promote strong values.

Addressing the theme, ‘Rise of an Empire,’ President Ali said it encourages reflection on the meaning of power and influence.

He cautioned that while historical empires were built on wealth and control, they ultimately declined when they lost sight of fairness and human dignity. In contrast, he pointed to a different kind of kingdom described in the Bible, one built on truth, justice, humility and compassion.

“When we hear the word empire, we often think about power, wealth and control,” he said. “But the Bible also teaches us that no matter how strong the empire is, it does not last forever. Power fades, but values last.“

He urged young people to focus on personal growth and responsibility.

“You all have a role in building something that lasts. Not an empire of control, but a society based on strong values. The process starts with personal growth. It means building character. It means learning discipline, respect and responsibility. It means becoming the kind of person one can trust,” he said.

The Guyanese leader further encouraged the gathering to remain committed to doing what is right.

“Focus on building your life with purpose. Focus on lifting others up. Focus on doing what is right, even when it is hard, because when you do that, you’re helping to build something far greater than any empire – a future that can stand the test of time.”

The Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT) will also be present at the Camporee to support skills development for local Pathfinders, highlighting ongoing government support for the Adventist community.