The Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, through its Department of Youth Affairs, is preparing to observe National Youth Week 2026 with a series of activities aimed at empowering, celebrating and creating opportunities for the nation’s young people.
Being held under the theme “Building Intentionally: Youth in Motion,” National Youth Week will run from August 9 to 14, with activities highlighting youth development, entrepreneurship, community service, recognition and wellness.
The Ministry views the observance as an important opportunity to celebrate the contributions of young people while providing meaningful avenues for them to develop their talents, ideas and leadership potential.
Speaking ahead of the week, Director of Youth Affairs Dr. Jrucilla Samuel encouraged young people and the wider public to participate.
“National Youth Week is a time for us to celebrate the creativity, resilience and determination of our young people. We encourage the entire community to join us in these events and to stand alongside our youth as they continue to shape the future of Antigua and Barbuda,” Dr. Samuel said.
Activities begin on Sunday, August 9, with the National Youth Week Church Service at the Salvation Army St. John’s Citadel Corps from 10:30 a.m.
On Monday, August 10, the Department will host a Youth Media Spotlight, followed by a Community Outreach initiative on Tuesday, August 11, encouraging young people to embrace service and play an active role in strengthening their communities.
A major highlight will be the Entrepreneurship Edge Expo on Wednesday, August 12, International Youth Day, at 4:30 p.m. at the Multipurpose Cultural and Exhibition Centre. The Expo will showcase youth creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship while allowing emerging entrepreneurs to promote their businesses, products and services.
National Youth Week continues on Thursday, August 13, with the Humanitarian Spirit Awards, recognising individuals whose service, compassion and commitment have made a positive difference.
The week concludes on Friday, August 14, with Yoga on Runaway Beach from 4:30 p.m., placing emphasis on wellness and healthy, balanced lifestyles.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, Dr. Samuel said it speaks directly to the importance of purposeful action among young people.
“Building Intentionally: Youth in Motion’ reminds us that progress requires both purpose and action. Our youth are not waiting for opportunities to arrive; they are moving forward with intention, and it is our duty to guide, mentor and celebrate them as they do so.”
Minister of Social and Urban Transformation, Hon. Rawdon Turner, and the wider Ministry continue to support programmes that enable young people to participate meaningfully in the social and economic development of Antigua and Barbuda.
Through the Department of Youth Affairs, the Ministry remains committed to creating an environment where young people are encouraged to lead, innovate, serve and transform their ideas into action.
Young people and members of the wider public are encouraged to participate in and support the activities planned for National Youth Week 2026.
Sometimes the young people who really want to attend this and other such events don’t even know they exist