T he Cayman Islands Youth Development Consortium’s (CIYDC) Celebrate Our Youth Day attracted high-level support with a host of senior government officials attending the occasion held Saturday, 28 January 2012.

Described as “a national celebration of partnerships and opportunities” guests at the event included His Excellency the Governor Duncan Taylor, CBE, Mrs. Beatrice Taylor, several Cabinet ministers, Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, Attorney General Sam Bulgin, the Hon. Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Mary Lawrence and Leader of the Opposition Alden McLaughlin.

“So many times we look at what is wrong with our students. Today the focus is on their successes and strengths. In this regard it is simply fantastic to see this concept being visibly supported by so many government, community and business leaders,” noted CIYDC Director Sylvia Wilks.

The event, which included a youth expo and awards ceremony, focused on the positive contributions made by young people, while also highlighting the many ways youth can become involved in their community.

It was initiated by CIYDC in January 2010 when the Hon. Premier McKeeva Bush, OBE, JP signed a proclamation to observe January as Support Our Youth Month.

This year’s event saw more than 40 youth organiaations, sports associations and schools at the exhibition.