Peetron Thomas Uses Storytelling to Promote Ocean Conservation During Royal Visit

Young people gathered at Government House on Monday received a lesson in ocean conservation and sustainable development through an interactive storytelling presentation by Antigua and Barbuda's Peetron Thomas, during activities surrounding the visit of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Thomas, a representative of the National Public Library and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Coordinator for the Americas with Next Generation Global Connect (NGGC), used the occasion to connect literacy and creative education with the importance of protecting the marine environment.

Representing the National Public Library of Antigua and Barbuda, Motion Pictures Antigua and NGGC, he introduced participants to the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals, placing particular emphasis on SDG 14, Life Below Water, which promotes the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources.

Using the Commonwealth-themed book A Message in a Bottle, Thomas combined storytelling, environmental education and a specially developed activity booklet to engage members of the Brownie Guides and students of Motion Pictures Antigua.

The presentation formed part of wider efforts to encourage literacy and environmental responsibility as Antigua and Barbuda marks its 45th anniversary of Independence while hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

One of the highlights came when Queen Camilla joined the young participants during the presentation, while King Charles continued viewing other displays at Government House.

Thomas described the engagement as an important opportunity to demonstrate how storytelling and creative learning can inspire children and young people to take a greater interest in sustainable development.

Beyond the royal engagement, Thomas is also working towards a regional initiative that would establish SDG Youth Groups throughout the Americas.

The proposed programme would use public libraries as platforms to connect young people across the region through virtual forums, educational discussions, collaborative projects and interactive activities focused on the Sustainable Development Goals.

Thomas hopes to formally advance the proposal through Next Generation Global Connect, creating additional opportunities for youth participation and cooperation across the Americas.

NGGC has congratulated Thomas on the presentation, commending his representation of the organisation and his efforts to bring greater awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals to an international platform. The organisation also announced plans to feature the engagement on its official social media channels.

The initiative highlights the potential role of public libraries beyond traditional reading and educational services, positioning them as spaces where young people can develop environmental awareness, explore global challenges and participate in conversations about sustainable development.