The Sandals Foundation has invested EC$38,000 in the Department of Youth Affairs' Entrepreneurship Edge Programme, reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment and economic development in Antigua and Barbuda. According to Antigua News Room, the programme officially commenced this week at the Multipurpose Cultural and Exhibition Centre.
Now in its second consecutive year of partnership with the Department of Youth Affairs, the Sandals Foundation continues to back the development of the nation's next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders.
The six-week programme, held twice weekly, brings together young small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs from across Antigua and Barbuda who are committed to growing their enterprises and turning innovative ideas into sustainable ventures.
Participants will engage with a comprehensive curriculum covering topics including Creativity and Artificial Intelligence, Financial Management, Ethical Leadership, Project Management, Business Accountability and Sustainability, Social Entrepreneurship, Funding Opportunities, Business Plan Fundamentals, and Public Speaking and Pitching Skills. Experienced professionals, entrepreneurs, and subject matter experts will deliver the sessions.
Speaking at the programme's opening ceremony, Sandals Public Relations Manager Leon Norville stressed the importance of investing in young people. "At the Sandals Foundation, we recognize that the future of our communities depends on the ability of our young people to innovate, lead, and create opportunities for themselves and others," he said. "Our investment to date of approximately EC$50,000 in the Entrepreneurship Edge reflects our commitment to empowering the next generation of business leaders with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to succeed."
Sandals General Manager David Latchimy commended the Department of Youth Affairs for its dedication to youth development and for creating a platform that addresses the realities faced by young entrepreneurs. He noted that the Foundation's partnership with the Department extends beyond financial support, representing a shared commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent and equipping young people with the tools needed to transform ideas into viable business ventures.
Director of Youth Affairs Dr. Jrucilla Samuel highlighted the Department's ongoing commitment to fostering entrepreneurship among the nation's youth. "By connecting participants with successful business leaders and providing access to critical resources, the Entrepreneurship Edge Programme is helping to build a stronger and more resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem in Antigua and Barbuda," Samuel said.
She further explained that the programme seeks to address common challenges faced by startups and emerging businesses while promoting innovation, leadership, accountability, and sustainability. Through mentorship, networking opportunities, and practical learning experiences, participants will gain valuable insights into building resilient enterprises capable of thriving in an evolving economic environment.
The programme will culminate in the Entrepreneurship Edge Expo following six weeks of intensive engagement, where participants will showcase their business concepts, products, and services. "By the programme's conclusion, participants will be better equipped to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions, expand their businesses, create opportunities within their communities, and contribute to the continued economic development of Antigua and Barbuda," Dr. Samuel concluded.
The Sandals Foundation is a registered charity operating across multiple jurisdictions, including Jamaica, Canada, the United States, and England and Wales. Created in March 2009, it funds projects in three core areas: education, community, and the environment, with one hundred percent of public contributions going directly to programmes benefiting Caribbean communities.
