Full-time music teacher at the Elmore Stoutt High School and part-time music teacher at the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports and Harrigan’s Music School, Brent Hoyte has been announced as the face of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports (DYAS).

Acting Director Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye said that the department is currently undergoing significant changes to better provide for the youth in the community and that the announcement of Brent Hoyte as the official face of the department plays a substantial role in that provision.

Mrs. Lettsome-Tye said, “Brent is a very influential youth who takes pride in what he does. His love for music and his drive to make a difference are some of the reasons why we decided to make him the face of our department.”

She added, “There is a great deal to consider when determining a person who can connect with our youth and to become the primary individual directly linked to the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports. However, there is something truly special about Mr. Hoyte. His ability to blend his career path, passion and hobby into one capsule is truly admirable.”

Twenty-two year old Brent Hoyte earned his High School certificate at the Elmore Stoutt High School and completed his Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.

Shortly after graduating, Mr. Hoyte started a full time job working as a High School music teacher at the Elmore Stoutt High School. Brent is also a music teacher at Youth Affairs and Sports after school programme, where he instils the love of music in young and growing minds. Currently, he is a member of 2nd Degree Band and the music director and producer for High Frequency Band.

Mr. Hoyte has also been the music director for esteemed gospel artists throughout the region. In addition, he has played and produced tracks for various local artists in the Territory. He recently produced the beat and developed the song concept for the tribute song, “Play On” for the late local musician Threcio G. Phillips.

Mrs. Lettsome-Tye further stated that the department will be announcing the upcoming changes and initiatives for 2016 and that the aim is to work to reach out to its primary audience: “the youth.”

Persons are strongly encouraged to support the Department’s initiative as the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports continue to cultivate an environment through programme development and community partnership to equip and empower youth in the Virgin Islands.