25 August 2026 – Ten young Antiguans who recently completed their Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) examinations were given a unique opportunity to step into the world of diplomacy through a special shadowing programme with the Hon. E. P Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration and Chair of the CHOGM 2026 National Taskforce.

The initiative formed part of the national outreach programme leading up to the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) which Antigua and Barbuda will host from 1–4 November 2026.

Designed to give young people meaningful exposure to diplomacy and public service the shadowing programme allowed the students to experience first-hand the work taking place behind the scenes as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to welcome Commonwealth leaders and representatives from across the Commonwealth.

Throughout the day the students accompanied the Minister and were exposed to aspects of his work, gaining insight into foreign affairs, international relations, government and the responsibilities involved in representing Antigua and Barbuda on the international stage.

The programme also featured a number of engaging activities and interactions with diplomats and public officials. One of the highlights was a conversation with Ambassador Wriggly George, who spoke to the students about the importance of setting goals, believing in themselves and pursuing the opportunities and ambitions they have for their future. The discussion encouraged the students to think seriously about their aspirations and the steps they can take to achieve them.

Minister Chet Greene with young students

The students also received an introduction to Mandarin with Ninette Benta-Lares from Fluent ED conducting an interactive language lesson. The session provided the students with an appreciation for the importance of language and cultural understanding in diplomacy and international engagement, while adding an interactive and enjoyable element to the day.

As part of the experience the students also participated directly in CHOGM outreach efforts. They visited the Directorate of Gender Affairs, where they delivered presentations on CHOGM 2026 sharing information about the meeting, its significance to Antigua and Barbuda and the importance of national participation.

The opportunity allowed the students to move beyond simply learning about CHOGM and become active contributors to the awareness campaign. They engaged with officials asked questions, shared their perspectives and used their communication and presentation skills to educate others about the upcoming Commonwealth meeting.

The programme provided exposure to diplomacy, leadership, public speaking, international relations, government, communications and public service, while also encouraging the students to consider the various educational and career opportunities available to them.

Minister Greene said:

“CHOGM is not only about the leaders and officials who will gather in Antigua and Barbuda; it is also about our people, particularly our young people, who are the future of this country and the Commonwealth. I wanted these students to have the opportunity to see, first-hand, what diplomacy, public service and international engagement look like and to understand that there are many pathways through which they can contribute to their country.

“Experiences like this can help young people identify their interests, build confidence and broaden their understanding of the opportunities available to them. As we prepare to welcome the Commonwealth family, I hope these students recognise that they too have a place in this historic moment and that their voices, talents and ideas can make a meaningful contribution to Antigua and Barbuda.”

Public Relations Officer and CHOGM 2026 Outreach Lead Briana Anthony said the initiative was deliberately designed to make the CHOGM experience personal and meaningful for young people.

“We did not want the students to simply hear about CHOGM through a presentation. We wanted them to experience it. The shadowing programme gave them the opportunity to see diplomacy in action.”

Anthony added:

“As we prepare to welcome the Commonwealth family to Antigua and Barbuda it is important that our young people understand that CHOGM is also their moment. They have a role to play in how we welcome our visitors, tell Antigua and Barbuda’s story and represent the country. Giving them opportunities such as this allows them to build confidence, develop their skills and recognise that their voices and contributions matter.”

The day concluded with a luncheon hosted by Minister Greene providing an opportunity for the students to reflect on the experience, share their thoughts and continue discussions about diplomacy, education, leadership and possible career pathways.

As preparations continue for CHOGM 2026 the Taskforce will continue engaging schools, government departments, businesses, community organisations and other stakeholders to build awareness, encourage participation and ensure that the benefits and significance of hosting the Commonwealth family are understood across Antigua and Barbuda.