Virgin Islands youth entrepreneur, Ms. Sharie De Castro joins 29 other young entrepreneurs from various OECS Member States as a winner for the 30 under 30 competition.

Ms. De Castro and the other 29 selected cohorts represent a diverse cross section of industries and have been accepted for business support by the OECS Competitive Business Unit. The winners will also receive mentorship to aid in their professional and business development; technical assistance; and assistance in sourcing markets and financial inputs.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Culture, Dr. Marcia Potter, who presented Ms. De Castro with the awarding certificate during the virtual ceremony, offered congratulations to Ms. De Castro on behalf of the Minister of Education and Culture, Honourable Myron V. Walwyn.

Dr. Potter said, “The Ministry of Education and Culture is pleased to see one of our young people excel in the OECS 30 under 30 competition as the Ministry continues to work towards the development our youth in the Territory. It is truly a rewarding moment and we commend her for a job well done.”

OECS Director General, Dr. Didacus Jules, commended this initiative that seeks to bolster the creativity of the region’s youth.

Dr. Jules said, “At the centre of this effort is youth development. The youth demographic is among the most disadvantaged segment of the population characterised by unacceptably high rates of unemployment; therefore youth empowerment and entrepreneurship must be a priority if we are to drive the change we all seek.”

Through its Youth Empowerment Strategy (YES), the OECS Commission opened nominations for its inaugural 30 Under 30 in entrepreneurship initiative in November of 2016 and extended the nominating period until March 31, 2017.

Eligible entrepreneurs had to be 30 years old or younger at the time of nomination, and be a citizen or resident of an OECS Member State.

Ms. Sharie De Castro’s winning business programme, ‘Write to Read’, is aimed at building a nation of readers, in addition to helping individuals achieve academic excellence through literacy.

The programme shows whether children are reading and writing below, at or above their expected levels. The screenings highlight areas of strength and weakness, and a detailed intervention plan for each child to address their individual needs.

Interested persons can call 442-7335 or email writetoreadbvi@gmail.com for further details and registration.

The Ministry of Education and Culture is committed to creating a ‘Culture of Excellence.’

Photo Caption: Ms. Sharie De Castro receiving her certification from Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Culture, Dr. Marcia Potter during the virtual awarding ceremony. (Photo Credit: Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)