National Youth Week 2025 Launches With Call To Empower Young Change Makers

Chief Youth Development Officer, Meritta Hyacinth, says young people are not just tomorrow’s leaders  they are the change makers of today.

Speaking at the launch of International Youth Week 2025 in Dominica, Ms. Hyacinth said these change makers are already driving community action and shaping the shared future of the nation.

She noted that the week’s activities are designed to highlight youth achievements, amplify their voices, and encourage the entire nation to rally behind them.

International Youth Week comes on the heels of a month-long Summer Day Camp programme, which reached more than 700 children and was supported by over 100 youth volunteers and 100 NEP education mentors. “This is living proof,” Ms. Hyacinth said, “that when we invest in our young people, we strengthen the very foundation of our nation.”

Activities officially began on August 9–10 with a National Day of Prayer for the Youth, where churches and religious bodies across the island united to uplift young people. On August 11, an online campaign spotlighted youth entrepreneurs.

The celebrations continue with a Talent Night on August 13 at the Marigot Youth Centre, featuring the public launch of a literacy game designed and developed by students from the recent coding camp.

On August 14, a Digital Summer Camp and Coding Graduation will recognize participants who developed their tech and creative skills. The following day, August 15, a Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony will take place at the Kalinago Barana Aute, honoring 120 young volunteers for their service.

Ms. Hyacinth is encouraging the public to follow the Youth Development Division’s WhatsApp channel, Facebook, and Instagram pages, as well as the Youth Vibes platform, for daily updates, motivational content, and highlights of the week’s activities.

She is also urging young people to look out for upcoming opportunities from the Dominica Youth Business Trust (DYBT) and the Skills Training Programme, which prepare them for leadership, employment, and entrepreneurship.

The Chief Youth Development Officer called on valued partners, including the Girl Guides, Cadet Corps, Scouts, Duke of Edinburgh Award Programme, JCI, Rotary, and others, to join the Youth Division in making the celebration impactful and far-reaching.

“By working together,” she said, “we can ensure that youth voices are heard, their talents are nurtured, and their contributions are recognized across Dominica.”

International Youth Week is dedicated to celebrating the vision, creativity, leadership, and strength of young people. This year’s theme is “Global Youth Actions for SDGs and Beyond.”