Hosted every four (4) years, the 10th Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting (10th CWYMM) addresses youth policy for Commonwealth member states. In 2023, the Hon. Minister Bernie Bush and a delegation from the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, were joined by two (2) youth of the Cayman Islands CARICOM Youth Ambassador Cohort. These were: CYA Ms. Vanessa Burke and Alt. CYA Mr. Juan Pablo Valerio.
At the meeting, CYA Burke and Alt. CYA Valerio, shared their views about youth issues faced by the Cayman Islands, Caribbean and the wider international community. Convened by the Commonwealth Secretariat at Marlborough House in London, United Kingdom, from 11th to 15th September 2023; the meeting's theme was: ‘Aiming Higher: Delivering More for Young People in the Commonwealth.’ Topics discussed, included:
Education
Employment
Environment
Engagement
The meeting also entailed a broader discussion of the social and sustainable development goals from a youth development perspective. Cross-cutting themes included: Human Rights, Transformative Technology and Disability. Having Youth Ministers, senior government officials, youth representatives, youth workers and other stakeholders; provided a diverse perspective.
Youth representatives at the 10th CWYMM included CYA Burke & Alt CYA Valerio - pictured 2nd row, far left.
For the CYAs, the highlight of this experience, was the opportunity to connect with other youth across the Commonwealth; and to network while trading ideas and prospective solutions to the issues faced by youth locally and internationally.
At the 10th CYMM, CYA Burke & Alt CYA Valerio were honoured to meet Patricia Scotland KC, Commonwealth Secretary-General.
Sources: thecommonwealth.org