National Youth Ambassador Makiba O. Ward has returned to Antigua and Barbuda following a two-week visit to China, where she represented the twin-island nation at the Youth Leader Experience Exchange Seminar for Developing Countries. According to Antigua News Room, the programme ran from May 19 to June 1 and brought together youth leaders from across Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, and Latin America.
During the seminar, Ward engaged with young leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from multiple regions, exchanging ideas on youth development, leadership, and innovation while building international friendships and partnerships.
As part of the programme, she attended the 2026 Jinjiang International Economic & Trade Cooperation Fair, where she gained exposure to entrepreneurship, business development, and international cooperation through direct interaction with young entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
Ward described the seminar as a transformative experience that strengthened her leadership skills and complemented her academic studies in Youth Development Work, with a minor in Management Studies. She expressed gratitude to the organizers and hosts for their hospitality and underscored the value of creating meaningful opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and contribute to national development.
She highlighted the cross-cultural connections formed during the seminar as among its most rewarding aspects, noting that despite participants coming from vastly different regions, they shared common aspirations — empowering youth, strengthening communities, and driving positive social change.
Ward also used the occasion to encourage young Antiguans and Barbudans to seize opportunities for personal and professional growth. "Take up space and never be afraid to pursue opportunities that can broaden your horizons. Every experience has the potential to teach valuable lessons, create lasting connections, and open doors to new possibilities. Continue to dream big, remain committed to your goals, and believe in your ability to make a difference," she said.
Ward, who also serves as President and Founder of Youth Arise Antigua, returned home with expanded global networks and a renewed commitment to advancing youth development and international cooperation both locally and abroad.
