In a significant move to amplify youth voices in regional development, fifteen emerging leaders from across the Eastern Caribbean have been selected to join the 2026 United Nations Youth Advisory Group (YAG). This strategic appointment reinforces the UN’s dedication to positioning young visionaries at the core of sustainable development initiatives throughout the sub-region.
The newly formed cohort, marking the fifth installation of this initiative, represents a diverse cross-section of nations including Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines. These dynamic individuals, aged between 18 and 30, bring substantial expertise across critical development areas including climate action, mental health advocacy, gender equality, disability inclusion, educational reform, food security, crime prevention, and indigenous rights protection.
UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Simon Springett emphasized the transformative potential of youth engagement, stating: ‘Our youth represent both our present and future. We’ve merely scratched the surface of what young people can contribute to governmental and international institutions. Their increased involvement is crucial for driving meaningful transformation.’
Rianka Chance of St Vincent and the Grenadines returns for her third term, assuming the role of Chair. She articulated the group’s ambitious vision: ‘I envision the YAG evolving into a unifying force across Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean—propelling collaboration, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, and ensuring inclusive youth engagement at all decision-making levels. Our objective extends beyond participation to actively shaping policies, influencing systems, and leading sustainable change locally, regionally, and globally.’
The selection process adhered to the UN’s Leave No One Behind principle, ensuring substantial representation from marginalized and underserved youth communities. This year’s cohort includes advocates working on indigenous identity recognition and social justice, alongside young leaders with notable accomplishments at national and international levels.
Throughout their one-year mandate, YAG members will serve as UN Youth Advocates, collaborating with other ambassadors to implement critical policy frameworks including the Youth Development Strategy for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, the UN Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, and respective Country Implementation Plans. Their engagement will encompass advocacy campaigns, outreach initiatives, and regional forums aimed at advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The United Nations anticipates productive collaboration with these emerging leaders to drive inclusive, youth-centered development outcomes across the Eastern Caribbean region.
2026 YAG Country Representatives:
– St Vincent and the Grenadines: Rianka Chance (Chair)
– Anguilla: Melissa Edwards
– Antigua and Barbuda: Amelia Williams and Shaquan O’Neil
– Barbados: Kalan Alleyne and Jovanaa Ifill
– British Virgin Islands: Angeleah Cupid
– Dominica: Loik Charles and Emmana Jeffers
– Grenada: Kerri-Ann Marrast, Zinzee Noel, and Raheem Smith
– St Kitts and Nevis: Hasani McDonald
– St Lucia: Davianne Alexander and Ethan Leandre