The Government highlighted work to empower young people before tomorrow’s UN International Youth Day.

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport, said that this year’s theme focuses on the creation of a sustainable world.

“Our belief is that sustainability for our young people involves every aspect of their lives. This includes their safety, their health and their place in the community,” Mr Darrell said.

“A sustainable future is one that allows our youth to be included in the conversations and decisions made that impact their lives.

“It also means supporting and empowering them in their career goals and community pursuits, by helping to enhance their knowledge, skills and abilities needed to thrive and succeed in a changing world and environment.”

Mr Darrell noted the Department of Culture’s work to create opportunities to showcase young people and offer funding to assist young artists and creatives, while progressing the National Youth Policy.

He also noted the recent success of young athletes overseas, while stating that greater investments need to be made to allow Bermuda’s athletes to compete with their global peers.

“So, as we reflect on International Youth Day, Bermuda should be extremely proud of the strides and contributions our young people are making in our community,” he said.

“The Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sport remains committed to strengthening and preserving our young people. They are at the forefront of shaping our future and they are the ones who will create a pathway to sustainability for all.”

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, highlighted the difficulty young people faced securing employment, with the International Labour Organisation estimating a 13.1 per cent global youth unemployment rate — higher in developing countries.

He noted that in Bermuda, unemployment stood at 11.1 per cent for those aged 16 to 24 last November, down from 32.1 per cent two years earlier.

As part of this year’s Department of Workforce Development's summer employment programme, a student committee was tasked with reviewing and researching the nine goals outlined in the Government’s youth employment strategy.

The group was led by Malaysia Burt, Justin Ebbin, Matthew Elliott, Precious Perinchief, Olivia Washington and Chontelle Williams.

The committee held discussions with participants in the summer employment programme and presented recommendations to Mr Hayward last week.

Mr Hayward called Bermuda’s young people “the architects of our island's progress” and invited the community to celebrate their potential for International Youth Day.