YOUTH CONTINGENT TO REPRESENT SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS AT INAUGURAL CARIFESTA XV STUDENT JAMBOREE

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, August 14, 2025 (SKNIS): Saint Kitts and Nevis will be well represented at the inaugural CARIFESTA XV Student Jamboree in Barbados, a celebration for 5th and 6th form students focusing on Caribbean identity, creativity and connection. The Jamboree will immerse campers in the ten-day Caribbean Festival of Arts from August 22 – 31, 2025.

The youth representatives, along with 80 creatives, feature a diverse range of talent in the twin-island Federation participating in CARIFESTA XV. They include visual artists, dancers, musicians, film-makers, literary artists, cultural entrepreneurs, agro-processors, fashion designers, and exponents of folklore. The delegation presents a dynamic portrait of the Federation’s creativity, innovation, and traditions on the Caribbean’s most celebrated cultural stage.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, emphasised that the participation of such a wide cross-section of individuals, particularly 24 young students, represents a meaningful investment in leadership, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding.

“Through workshops, performances, and exchanges, our youth will gain invaluable exposure to regional perspectives and artists’ traditions, helping to shape them into well-rounded global citizens,” said Dr. Hanley at a press conference on Thursday (August 14) organised by the Department of Creative Economy. “This initiative, of course, aligns seamlessly with the Ministry of Education’s commitment to holistic education, one that nurtures both academic excellence and cultural growth.”

Deputy Prime Minister Hanley stated that the students, youth leaders, and emerging artists will benefit greatly from the sessions.

“We believe that education must extend beyond the classroom and this experience at CARIFESTA XV [provides] a powerful platform,” he said. “… These experiences enrich our educational landscape and strengthen our bonds across the Caribbean.”

Dr. Hanley wished the entire delegation travelling to Barbados well and encouraged them to proudly demonstrate the “vibrant spirit” of Saint Kitts and Nevis at CARIFESTA XV.

The delegation leaves the Federation on August 22 and 23. CARIFESTA XV celebrations fall under the theme “Caribbean Roots – Global Excellence.”