Twenty-two (22) young Jamaicans have been appointed as Youth Ambassadors by His Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen. They were presented with their
Instruments of Appointment at a ceremony at King’s House earlier this month, and will serve for two years from 2011 to 2013.
In his address, the Governor-General encouraged the Youth Ambassadors to believe in themselves and remain strong, irrespective of the challenges they may encounter. “I know that you might be faced with challenges, obstacles and trying times, but let no one look down on you because you are young. In the execution of your duties, be hopefuland persistent,” The Governor-General said.
He further urged the Youth Ambassadors to insist on real action that will change the social equation and give young people better opportunities to realize their hopes and aspirations.
The Jamaica Youth Ambassadors Programme (JAYAP) is an initiative of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. Youth Ambassadors are expected to advocate on behalf of other young people at the national and international levels, and serve as inspiring role models.
This year, the number of Youth Ambassadors has been increased from 14 to 22 in order to incorporate areas that have been underrepresented in youth development. These include the Diaspora, Disabilities, Disaster Management, Gender, Youth and Agriculture, Human Trafficking and Sustainable Development. Other subject areas to be covered by the Youth Ambassadors include: the United Nations, the Commonwealth and CARICOM.