BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts – In a move designed to deepen connections between young people and older community members, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has formalized a formal partnership with youth-led nonprofit iSTEAM: The Academy of Arts and Sciences via a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The official signing ceremony took place April 15 at the headquarters of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing, and Disabilities. Honourable Isalean Phillip, Minister of State, signed the agreement on behalf of the national government, while Clilia Davis, Managing Director of iSTEAM, signed for the organization.
This binding agreement cements and expands the ongoing collaborative work between iSTEAM and the ministry, with a core focus on supporting Saddlers Home for the Elderly. For some time, iSTEAM’s young volunteers have carried out regular intergenerational engagement activities for the facility’s residents, alongside delivering critical supplies, personal gifts, and other donations to meet residents’ needs.
In remarks following the signing, Minister Phillip praised the youth-led organization for its commitment to improving the quality of life for senior citizens across the federation. She emphasized that cross-sector partnerships with community groups are a cornerstone of policy delivery across the portfolios she oversees.
“It is incredibly encouraging to see community stakeholders recognize the investments our government is making to support vulnerable groups, and step forward to contribute their own time and effort to that mission,” Phillip said.
The minister added that the MOU holds particular significance because it aligns directly with the ministry’s strategic priority: strengthening intergenerational engagement to build a cohesive community culture where younger people both care for and learn from older generations. She specifically commended Davis for her longstanding leadership in this space, noting that iSTEAM has built a strong track record of empowering young people while delivering meaningful support to seniors across Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Officials from both sides say the partnership highlights how intentional collaboration between government and community organizations can drive measurable positive social change and improve well-being for at-risk and vulnerable population groups.