Young campers charged to lead with character, courage & confidence

– as GPF Youth Camp 2026 5-day concludes

The Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Annual Youth Camp 2026 concluded on Friday after five days of activities aimed at building character, confidence and leadership among young people. Held under the theme “Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Building Character and Youth Confidence,” the camp took place at the Kuru Kururu Co-operative College along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway and brought together more than 100 young people between the ages of seven and 13 from across the Police Regional Divisions. The camp was organised by the GPF in collaboration with the Guyana Association of Women Police (GAWP). The campers were supported throughout the week by caregivers, police officers, members of the organising committee and support staff.
At the closing ceremony, Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond stated that the camp was significant because it brought young people from every region of Guyana together to learn, share experiences and build lasting friendships. She encouraged the campers to recognise that Guyana’s future must be nurtured and empowered, reminding them that true leadership is built on character, courage, kindness and making responsible choices. Walrond also told the young participants that among them could be future lawyers, police officers, nurses, firefighters, Ministers and even the future President of Guyana.

She also reflected on Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken’s personal experience, noting that he had attended the same youth camp when he was their age and had gone on to become Commissioner of Police. The top cop echoed those sentiments, noting that the camp had provided the youths with new skills and valuable experiences. He encouraged them to remain focused on their education, improve their vocabulary and communication skills and appreciate the diverse cultures and backgrounds of their fellow campers. The camp was led by Head of the Strategic Planning and Implementation Unit and President of the GAWP, Senior Superintendent Dr Nicola Kendall. She was assisted by Head of the Community Relations Department, Superintendent Leslyn Smith while Assistant Superintendent Michael Kurt served as Camp Father.
The closing ceremony featured cultural performances, songs, spoken word, a fashion show and an arts and crafts display. Awards were also presented for Most Outstanding Camper, Most Improved Camper, Most Disciplined Camper, and Best Dormitory. Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Home Affairs Ministry Andre Ally, senior and junior police officers, community Toshaos, caregivers, and parents. The 2026 Youth Camp concluded with participants leaving with new friendships, valuable skills and lasting experiences as they prepare to play their part in Guyana’s future.