Youth Officers and senior personnel from the Youth Development Unit (YDU) within the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports recently concluded their April to September 2025 Reporting Session.
The session took place on September 25 at the National Skills Development Centre in Vieux Fort, gathering around 23 Youth Officers, senior Ministry officials from the Youth Unit, and members of the Communication Unit.
This event created a dynamic environment for reflection, collaboration, and strategic planning.
Nineteen Youth Officers delivered detailed reports on their activities during the period, showcasing impactful community interventions and innovative approaches.
Their presentations reflected a commendable level of professionalism and commitment, with 95% rated as outstanding.
Although some officers encountered challenges related to execution, venue logistics, and funding, the Ministry viewed these obstacles as essential learning opportunities to enhance future support systems.
Among the attendees was Kate Alcindor-Edward, Budget Analyst at the Ministry of Finance. She was impressed by the dedication and quality of work exhibited during the presentations, describing them as “incredible.”
Though she did not commit to increased funding, she assured attendees of her advocacy for additional resources to bolster youth development initiatives.
Director of Youth Development, Lavorne Verdant-Desir, delivered a powerful address that praised the team’s resilience and passion.
“I am proud of what the team continues to accomplish, despite tight constraints in time, financial resources, and physical assets,” she stated.
Desir emphasized the need to engage stakeholders more effectively and consider their payments and personal lives. She encouraged the team to quantify the quality of their interactions and the confidence they instill in their roles.
“We have passion and personality; these must work in tandem to maximize the impact we create,” she asserted.
“I am extremely satisfied with what was presented. We have a hardworking and dynamic team, and our work speaks volumes. I eagerly anticipate the progress we will make in the next six months,” she concluded.
The September Reporting Session reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to transparency, youth empowerment, and the ongoing enhancement of youth development initiatives across Saint Lucia.