The government body tasked with advancing youth empowerment in Antigua and Barbuda has marked a key leadership transition within the country’s youth advocacy ecosystem, welcoming three emerging young leaders to official national representative roles. The Department of Youth Affairs has formally extended public congratulations to Amelia Williams, Rainer Santos Mercado, and Esquire Henry, who have been selected to fill the vacant positions of National Youth Delegates.
In an official statement shared following the appointments, the department highlighted the strong leadership potential of the three new delegates, noting that their selection reflects a commitment to elevating youth voices in national decision-making. The agency expressed full confidence in their ability to deliver meaningful results, offering well wishes as the trio prepares to take on their core responsibilities: amplifying the concerns, priorities, and aspirations of young people across Antigua and Barbuda, modeling inclusive leadership, and driving targeted advocacy for youth-focused policy and community development.
The appointment announcement also served as an occasion to recognize the legacy of the delegates who previously held the roles. The department formally thanked outgoing former delegates Deborah Hatten and Donte Walter for their unwavering commitment to the role and the wide-ranging impact of their tenure. Over their time in office, Hatten and Walter delivered consistent, dedicated service that advanced youth development initiatives across the country and strengthened the framework for youth representation, leaving behind valuable contributions that will benefit future cohorts of delegates and young constituents alike.
This dual announcement underscores the ongoing cycle of growth and renewal within Antigua and Barbuda’s youth governance structures, celebrating both the fresh energy and vision that incoming leaders bring to the table and the foundational work laid by those who have completed their terms.