The Montserrat National Youth Parliament – a group of young leaders dedicated to fostering civic engagement and advocating for youth-related issues – sat for the first time this year.
On 21 February, the young representatives were officially sworn in, made statements, asked and answered questions, and debated the Education Curriculum Alignment Bill 2024.
Speaker of the House, Charliena White, began the meeting by welcoming the youth parliament members, invited guests and members of the Montserrat Cadet Corps to the Montserrat Cultural Centre.
“Today marks a significant milestone,” she said, “as we witness the emergence of a new generation of leaders, ready to embark on a journey of civic duty and advocacy as the voices of youth.”
She said it has been a pleasure for the Montserrat legislature to work with young minds to provide training on parliamentary procedures, and also to give them a platform for change.
“As I witness the enthusiasm and potential within these young minds, I am hopeful that some, if not all of them, will aspire to take up positions of leadership in the larger parliament,” she said.
White told the new youth parliamentarians that their success will not only shape their individual growth, but contribute to the overall development of society.
“Your commitment to taking up leadership positions demonstrates not only your individual dedication, but also your collective responsibility to be champions of the youth voice.
“In a world where change is constant, your role becomes pivotal in shaping a better tomorrow for our society,” she said during the meeting which was broadcast live on YouTube.
Finding common ground
After her official election, Youth Speaker Shanique Hoyte then welcomed her fellow parliamentarians, encouraging them to work together as a team.
“Regardless of which side you sit, you all have one common duty and that is to serve,” she said, adding that they can do that by acting as the voice of the youth in Montserrat.
“Therefore, it is expected for you to strive and to find common ground each time you enter into this honourable house,” Hoyte continued.
“This means that as opposition members you are expected to support what is deserving of support, and you will critique which is deserving of that.
“As government members you are expected to see to accept criticism which is deemed productive.”
She said the young MPs must put their egos aside and operate with the unified goal of making improvements for the young people of Montserrat.
‘A plethora of opportunities’
Youth Attorney General, Jesumene Pierre, went on to read a statement from Hasani McDonald, president of the St Kitts National Youth Parliament Association.
He reminded attendees of the close relationship between the two youth parliaments, and said 2024 promises to bring “a plethora of opportunities for expanded collaboration and relations”.
McDonald said his association is pleased with the continued membership growth in Montserrat, and he wished members a very successful sitting.
“May the ideas shared, the issues raised and the solutions preferred find their ways to the ears of our leaders,” he said.
The members of the Montserrat National Youth Parliament are:
- Shanique Hoyte – Youth Speaker
- St Luke LeBlanc – Youth Premier and Minister of Finance and Economic Management
- Khayla West – Youth Minister of Education, Youth Affairs, Sports, Health and Social Services
- Mikayla Cole – Youth Deputy Premier and Minister of Communication, Works, Labour and Energy
- Tianna Destouche – Youth Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment
- Jesumene Pierre – Youth Attorney General
- Dieudeline Dubreus – Youth Financial Secretary
- Keanu Kirnon – Leader of the Opposition, Youth Shadow Minister of Finance and Economic Management
- Mauricia Barzey – Youth Deputy Speaker and Opposition Member
- Maretha Greenaway – Youth Parliamentary Secretary
- Jacintha Ryan – Youth Clerk
