The CHOGM 2026 Secretariat has announced the selection of four young Antiguans and Barbudans who will serve as official Social Media Correspondents for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.

Chosen for the role are Janet Simon, Gabrielle Hamlet, Lutrell John and Joshua Edwards.

The Secretariat said the correspondents were selected based on their strong communication abilities, professional digital content skills and engaging on-camera presence.

As part of the initiative, the correspondents will help amplify the visibility of CHOGM 2026 by producing timely updates, behind-the-scenes features and community-focused stories across official digital platforms.

Officials say the programme is aimed particularly at connecting with young audiences through creative, relatable and informative content while upholding high standards of accuracy, ethics and professionalism.

The selected correspondents are expected to cover key developments surrounding the summit, spotlight major themes and provide fresh perspectives on the CHOGM experience.

To qualify, applicants were required to demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills, an understanding of news-style storytelling and experience in content creation. Candidates also needed access to HD video recording equipment and editing tools, along with knowledge of production elements such as lighting, framing and sound.

Applicants were additionally expected to have involvement in youth leadership and development programmes, including the Antigua and Barbuda National Youth Ambassador Programme, the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Programme, the National Youth Parliament, or leadership positions within secondary schools such as Head Boy, Head Girl or Prefect.

According to the Secretariat, the successful candidates also showed keen interest in issues aligned with the CHOGM agenda, including climate change, gender, civil society, youth development, sports and social issues.

A panel made up of representatives from the Commonwealth Secretariat and the CHOGM 2026 Taskforce oversaw the adjudication process.

Committee Co-Lead Sharifa George praised the selected correspondents, saying they displayed “intelligence, professionalism, and a passion for their areas of interest,” while impressing the panel with their individual talents.

The CHOGM 2026 Secretariat congratulated Janet Simon, Gabrielle Hamlet, Lutrell John and Joshua Edwards on their appointments and said it looks forward to their contributions in shaping a vibrant and engaging digital narrative for the major international event.

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting is scheduled to take place in Antigua and Barbuda from November 1 to 4, 2026.