NATIONAL SECRETARIAT FOR HUMAN SECURITY AND WELLBEING

The National Secretariat for Human Security and Wellbeing is inviting young people across St.

Kitts and Nevis to take part in a national survey that will directly shape the “Own Your Summer

2026” initiative.

The survey is the starting point for the programme, giving youths between the ages of 14 and 20

a clear voice in determining the types of activities, opportunities, and support they want to see

during the summer period.

“Own Your Summer 2026” is being spearheaded by the Secretariat in partnership with summer

camps, businesses and community-based organisations across the Federation, as part of a broader

public health approach to crime and violence prevention.

The initiative recognises that the summer months can present increased risks for young people,

as school closures often result in reduced structure, less supervision, and added pressures on

families. These conditions can heighten vulnerability and exposure to negative influences,

including gang recruitment.

2

By prioritising youth input at the design stage, the programme aims to respond directly to those

realities by creating safe, structured, and engaging spaces that reflect the actual needs and

interests of participants.

Planned areas of engagement include sports and recreation, mentorship, creative and educational

development, and internship opportunities for older youths. Officials stress, however, that the

final programme design will be guided by survey responses.

The Secretariat is also encouraging parents, caregivers, camp leaders, and community partners to

support participation in the survey to ensure broad and representative input from across the

Federation.

“Own Your Summer 2026” represents a coordinated national effort to reduce risk, strengthen

support systems, and create more positive pathways for young people, grounded in their own

voices and lived experiences