By Saskia Warrick
October 9, 2024
Georgetown, Guyana — The 64th National Convention of the Junior Chambers International (JCI) West Indies, held in Georgetown from October 9–13, serves as a vital platform for youth empowerment and development across the region.
Speaking at the convention, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, highlighted JCI’s critical role in fostering positive change among young people, emphasizing the importance of leadership, social responsibility, and entrepreneurship.
Minister Bharrat acknowledged the challenges faced by the region in guiding youth away from crime and delinquency, citing broken family structures as a contributing factor.
He urged for strong role models to lead by example, emphasizing that mentorship can play a transformative role in young people’s lives.
Local JCI Guyana President, Deshawn Walcott, shared updates on initiatives organized by JCI, including community cleanup events aimed at promoting civic responsibility and environmental awareness.
Walcott highlighted that JCI’s projects are designed to equip young individuals, aged 18 to 40, with the skills and values needed to contribute positively to society.
The JCI West Indies network spans several Caribbean nations, including Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, and Dominica, providing a space for youth to collaborate and drive regional development.