ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — National Youth Ambassador Shacia A. has launched a new youth agriculture initiative, Plant the Seed, Grow the Future, in partnership with the 10th Antigua Girl Guides, aimed at engaging young people through mentorship and hands-on learning.
The programme is designed to introduce participants to agriculture as a field connected to science, technology and innovation, while fostering leadership, responsibility and community involvement. Organisers say the initiative encourages youth to see agriculture not only as food production, but as a pathway to sustainable development.
Participants took part in practical agricultural activities, including planting succulents, which organisers said symbolised the role of young people in shaping a sustainable future for their communities and the country.
The initiative also seeks to connect traditional agricultural practices with modern approaches, highlighting values such as patience, discipline and environmental stewardship.
As a National Youth Ambassador under the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Youth Affairs, Shacia A. said the programme aligns with the National Youth Policy’s focus on environmental sustainability and supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Zero Hunger, Life Below Water and Life on Land.
Organisers described Plant the Seed, Grow the Future as a long-term commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development through agriculture.