On March 21, 2026, the Rotary Club of Dominica wrapped up a highly successful Youth Symposium centered on the foundational theme “Leading with Integrity: Building a Culture of Diligence and Ethical Leadership”, held at the University of the West Indies Open Campus on Elmshall Road from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., according to an official press release from the Rotary Club of Roseau.
The dynamic, interactive gathering brought together hundreds of upper secondary school students from Forms 4 and 5 across the island nation, alongside undergraduate learners from Dominica State College, creating a collaborative space for emerging young leaders to connect and learn. Designed as a targeted investment in Dominica’s next generation, the symposium aimed to inspire and empower young people by instilling core values, teaching frameworks for responsible decision-making, and nurturing a lifelong commitment to personal and community excellence.
Over the course of the four-hour event, participants took part in structured talks and open, guided discussions that left them with actionable insights into how integrity, discipline, and ethical leadership can shape both their individual futures and the long-term trajectory of Dominica. Attendees were invited to reflect deeply on their emerging roles as community and national leaders, examining how ethical behavior influences outcomes across every sphere of life: academic pursuits, future professional careers, and personal relationships. Core session topics highlighted the non-negotiable value of diligence, personal accountability, and principled decision-making in an increasingly interconnected and complex global landscape.
The event featured a diverse, distinguished panel of speakers from across multiple professional sectors, each bringing unique lived experience and expertise to the conversation. The line-up included Reverend Father Brancker John, a parish priest; Dr. Gilda Nesty-Tonge, a consultant psychiatrist; Ms. Chelsea Frampton, an attorney and international trade policy professional; and Mr. Kevin Julien, a practicing attorney-at-law. Every panelist delivered a memorable, impactful presentation that centered on the critical roles of integrity, resilience, and ethical governance in leadership. The interactive format of the day also created ample space for students to pose questions to panelists, share their own lived perspectives, and engage in constructive, meaningful dialogue across peer and generational lines.
In closing remarks, the Rotary Club of Dominica reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to youth development and national building initiatives that equip young people with both the practical tools and moral foundation necessary to grow into accountable citizens and principled leaders. This symposium is just one component of the organization’s ongoing work to cultivate leadership capacity among Dominican youth, and to embed a widespread culture of excellence and community service across the island.