The Saint Lucia National Youth Council has elected Bernell St Rose as its new president following a closely watched digital vote, ushering in a new executive at a milestone moment as the organization marks its 40th anniversary.
St Rose secured victory over challenger David Henry, pledging what she described as “real change” for young people across the island.
She assumes leadership of the council at a time when youth advocacy, development, and representation remain central to national discourse.
She will be joined on the executive by Dequan Charles as First Vice President and Edisa Eugene as Second Vice President. Alrica Antoine was elected General Secretary, with Marcus Giraudy named Assistant Secretary. Phoebe Smith will serve as Public Relations Officer, while Nazan Hutchinson was elected Treasurer.
Outgoing president Yaniqueca Jn Bart Williams reflected on the work of the previous executive, highlighting gains in institutional stability and partnerships.
“We’re very thankful that NYC has a rent-free space,” she said. “We were able to partner and collaborate with regional and local entities and also to build the capacity of our youth leaders.”
Jn Bart Williams said strengthening relationships at the community level was a major focus of her tenure.
“Build that bond with the District Youth and Sports Council, create more opportunities, sporting opportunities, youth development opportunities, programs, initiatives, so that our young people can develop,” she noted.
In her first comments as incoming president, St Rose outlined a measured and consultative approach to leadership, beginning with a comprehensive review of the council’s current position.
“My approach really is to first have an audit to see what our gaps are, whether it is through agencies with our DYSCs and students councils, as well as any gaps with private and public entities,” she explained.
She said the aim of the exercise is to ensure that the council’s work is responsive and inclusive.
“To really assess those gaps and see how we as stakeholders and youth leaders can come together to make it work for our young people,” St Rose said.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, the new president stressed the importance of collaboration and solidarity.
“There will be challenges, I don’t anticipate that there won’t be any challenges, there will be,” she said. “But the thing is building strength in unity and that’s what I’m working on.”
The newly elected executive now assumes responsibility for guiding the National Youth Council into its fifth decade, with expectations high among young people for renewed advocacy, coordination, and impact.