The Human Services and Social Security Ministry has issued a call for responses from persons interested in becoming a part of the next Young Influencers programme via its social media pages.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (in pink), sharing a light moment with some of the first batch of Young Influencers during one of their outreaches in 2021
The Ministry is currently seeking out 25 diverse and dynamic youths between the ages of 15 and 25 years who had applied to be included in the programme via the Google form that is available on the Ministry’s social media platforms.
The Young Influencers programme is geared at encouraging and empowering young people to make meaningful impacts in their communities through their skillsets and talents, while reflecting characteristics of a positive role model and ambassador for young people.
Once selected, the selectees would get the opportunity to work along with the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who conceptualised this programme, to tackle social ills and participate in impactful projects for a year.
According to Andrew Hing from Region 4 (Demerara-Mahaica), who was part of the inaugural batch of Young Influencers, “As a Young Influencer, I got exposed to training that enlightened me on social issues and ways to deal with them. It was very interesting to learn about conflict resolution, abuse, and so much more from institutions that actually handle these situations.”
He related that, “Public speaking training was one of my favourites, as I needed to come out of my shell. We were also provided with resources to escalate situations should we encounter someone facing these issues. I would encourage anyone that is interested to be part of this incredible journey. You definitely will not regret it.
“Being on the Youth Unfiltered show also helped me to open up about topics affecting young people unscripted,” the Young Influencer has said.
Junisha Johnny of Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo) shared, “Being a member of the Young Influencers programme 2021 was a great way to gain valuable life experience as well as skills which will stay with me throughout life. The ability gained, to empathise with a group of youths who often have very different needs, will be a huge help in the future, whether in the workplace or in the home. Therefore, I encourage youths out there to join, and become a Young Influencer. Let’s pave the way and give Guyanese youths a better future.”
Young applicants can expect a journey filled with opportunities: from speaking on international platforms to learning about the Ministry’s services and social ills, to community outreaches and projects, to television and talent expression forays, to peer engagements and education, and participation in a number of programmes.
In order to be considered, candidates would be required to show their skills by conceptualising a promotional video piece on one of the Ministry’s existing programmes. The candidates would also have to detail some of the work they have done within their communities.
Some of the traits these Young Influencers must possess are: good communication skills; social media savviness and influence; eloquence; strong morals and ethics; and a passion for volunteering and community work.
Application deadline is February 18, 2022, and the application form can be completed via link: https://forms.gle/ur5nJS5riLpEoNAZ8
