The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society formally launches its Youth Commission

By Aabigayle McIntosh

The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society has officially launched a critical arm within the non-profit organisation.

The ABRCS Youth Commission is being built as a pivotal arm of the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society, dedicated to engaging and empowering young people in humanitarian efforts that shape a better future while ensuring that diverse voices and ideas are included in decision-making processes.

Its primary roles will include promoting the fundamental principles and values of the Red Cross among youth, organizing educational programs and activities to build skills in disaster response, first aid, and community service, leading mentorship and youth development programs within schools including the ABRCS Youth Links and Junior Red Cross, and fostering leadership and volunteerism.

During the recent ceremony, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society, Dr. Jose Humphreys, congratulated the members of the newly formed Youth Commission on their appointment to body.

The President emphasized the importance of youth leaders as agents of change, expressing that young people possess the energy, creativity, and drive to address and influence social, environmental, and general issues effectively.

By leveraging their unique perspectives and harnessing their enthusiasm, the President outlined that youths can spearhead initiatives that drive meaningful change, advocate for social justice and innovative solutions, mobilize their peers and communities towards positive social transformation, and contribute to the development of sustainable and equitable solutions, while playing an active role in leadership and peer mentorship.

By involving young people in various initiatives, the Commission aims to cultivate a new generation of humanitarian leaders, drive community engagement, and enhance the overall impact of the Red Cross’s mission to alleviate human suffering and uphold human dignity.

The members of the Youth Commission include Julien Kentish (Chair), Aliah Jenkins, Daniella Mohamed, Hannah Hatten, Malik Vincent, Victoria Charlton, Naisha Mohamed, Nerlie Saint Jean, Sheanna Henry and Shemar Abel.