The United Progressive Party (UPP) is holding its 12th Biennial Convention activities and youth members of the party are being featured in an event called Youth Connect.

The event aims to inspire, educate, and empower the youth and will be held at Freedom Hall on lower Newgate Street. The theme of the event is “The Contributions of Youth Talent to Socio-economic Development”.

 The keynote address will be given by Senator Damion Crawford, who is the shadow minister of education and community development for the People’s National Party (PNP) in Jamaica.

A panel of local experts consisting of Sowerby Gomes, Technical Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association and two entrepreneurs, MP Anthony Smith and Tricia Edwards, will address the audience on the topic “How is Today’s Economy Affecting the Youth?

The Disparity between Economic Growth and their Pockets.” MP Smith believes that the young people play a crucial role in the development of the country and it is important to invest in their education and entrepreneurship skills to harness their potential and ensure a meaningful contribution to national development.

The Progressive Youth Chairman, Lexianne Powell, agrees that empowering and supporting young people is vital for a smooth transition from one generation to another, making their national role extremely critical.

The event is open to the public and will begin with a networking session at 6 p.m. followed by the general session at 7.

Additionally, there will be various activities and a performance by UCG Entertainment aimed at engaging the youth.