On September 15, Junior Achievement (JA) Saint Lucia honored the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of its participants during the Junior Achievement Awards Ceremony held at the Finance Administrative Centre in Pointe Seraphin.
This significant event marked a milestone in the resurgence of the JA program, recognizing the achievements of its inaugural cohort of young participants. The ceremony celebrated the dedication of individuals who seized the opportunity to develop practical skills, build confidence, and explore entrepreneurship, all while preparing themselves for future educational and professional endeavors.
It also served to acknowledge the partners, sponsors, teachers, and stakeholders whose unwavering support has been vital in revitalizing the program and creating impactful opportunities for youth.
Featured guest speaker Ashnel Delice, a Junior Achievement alumnus and Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Economy Agency (YEA), underscored the importance of initiatives like Junior Achievement in equipping young individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for contributing to national development.
He stressed the need for collaboration, stating, “Our country is too small for silos, and the challenges we face are too important for fragmentation. Lasting progress will require partnerships, alignment, and a shared national vision.”
Rankin Morgan, Chairman of the Junior Achievement Board, praised the financial support from the Department of Commerce, emphasizing its commitment to investing in youth initiatives that foster personal and professional growth. He remarked, “This financial contribution reflects the Government’s dedication to empowering the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to participate meaningfully in our economy.”
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Dr. Shanda Lee Harracksingh underscored the importance of practical side of the program. “Knowing the theory is one part of it. You can read about entrepreneurship, you can study the Principles of Business {POB}, you can learn about finance in a classroom, but the practical experience is invaluable. Having to develop an idea, work with a team, make decisions, meet a deadline, and discover that the first plan may not always be the best plan. You cannot beat experience, particularly in this world that we are living in today.”
The JA Directors highlighted the crucial role of corporate sponsors, noting that the initiative demonstrates the collaborative strength of the private sector, youth-serving organizations, government, and other stakeholders in creating pathways for young people to develop their abilities. The ceremony featured award presentations, recognizing participants for their achievements, and honoring teacher advisors for their significant contributions to student success.
In addition, Massy Stores generously donated gift vouchers totaling $1,000 to teachers and students, alongside a 55” television set presented to the six participating schools. The Junior Achievement Awards Ceremony was not only a celebration of accomplishments but also a reminder of the ongoing need for investment in Saint Lucia’s youth and the collective responsibility of stakeholders to create opportunities for the next generation.
As Junior Achievement Saint Lucia looks toward the future, the organization remains committed to strengthening partnerships and expanding opportunities that empower young people to learn, lead, and build successful futures.
Awards presented included:
