Seychelles shone a spotlight on its brightest young talents at the Positive Youth Awards 2024, an inspiring celebration of youth excellence hosted at the prestigious Constant Ephelia Hotel yesterday evening. President Wavel Ramkalawan, accompanied by the Minister for Youth, Sport, and Family, Mrs. Marie-Céline Zialor, led the ceremony, which showcased the transformative power of the nation’s youth and their critical role in shaping Seychelles' future.
The event’s highlight was President Ramkalawan awarding Liam D’unienville the title of Most Engaged Youth of 2024, a recognition of his extraordinary achievements in community development and personal growth. His accolades reflected not only individual brilliance but also a profound commitment to fostering a better society.
Themed “Positivite Toulezour” (Positivity Always), the ceremony celebrated youth contributions across eight categories, including Positive Image (Secondary and Post-Secondary), Humanitarian Contributions, Youth Environment Activism and Advocacy, Youth Sports and Healthy Lifestyle, Youth Innovation, Youth Engagement in Civil Society, Media Influence, and Literacy, Art, and Performing Arts.
In his welcoming address, the CEO of the Seychelles National Youth Council, Mr. Albert Duncan, praised stakeholders for their unwavering support in nurturing the potential of the nation’s youth. "The youth are the heart of transformation, innovation, and creativity. They are the solution for a brighter and sustainable future," he said, urging young people to recognize their importance and their power to achieve great things.
Minister Zialor echoed these sentiments, encouraging the youth to embrace their achievements with pride and continue contributing positively to society.
President Ramkalawan, in his keynote address, underscored the pivotal role of young people in the nation’s future. Announcing a dedicated school for performing arts, he acknowledged the wealth of creative talent among young Seychellois and the need to nurture it further. "The future of Seychelles is with you," he declared. " Seize every opportunity, remember that the horizon is your limit, sky is your limit, and do not let challenges become stumbling blocks."
The evening was a dazzling showcase of talent and creativity, featuring electrifying performances by popular artists, mesmerizing dance routines by the Emergency Crew, and heartfelt recitals by young performers. Each act vividly demonstrated the boundless potential of Seychelles’ youth.
The Positive Youth Awards 2024 stands as a testament to Seychelles’ dedication to empowering its youth. It sends a powerful message that talent, determination, and positive contributions are not only recognized but celebrated as pillars of the nation’s future—truly embracing the spirit of positivity every day.
Also present for the ceremony was Minister for Education, Mr Justin Valentin, Minister for investment, entrepreneurship and investment, Mrs. Devika Vidot, Second Lady Stella Afif, Hon. Wavel Woodcock, Principal secretary for sport, Mr. Ralph Jean Louis, Principal secretary for Family, Mr. Mike Morel, Principal secretary for Culture, Ms. Cecile Kalebi, CEO for NCC, Mrs. Yasmin Umaji, CEO for NSC, Mr. Mark Arrisol, CEO of SBC, Mr. Berard Dupres, CEO CEPS Mr. Alvin Laurence, distinguished guests, youths and Staff of the SNYC.