Young Leaders Take the Floor: 19th Youth Parliament Debate Recapped

The Parliament of the Cayman Islands reflects with pride on the successful 19th Youth Parliament Debate, held on Monday, 9th March 2026 at the House of Parliament in George Town, in observance of Commonwealth Day. Guided by this year’s theme “Unlocking Opportunities Together for a Prosperous Commonwealth,” the event showcased the talent, insight, and leadership potential of young Caymanians, while reinforcing the importance of youth engagement in democratic processes. Throughout the sitting, Youth Parliamentarians delivered insightful and well-articulated contributions as they debated two key Motions: • PPM #1: A Comprehensive Framework for Mental Health Support and Youth Rehabilitation in the Cayman Islands. • PPM #2: Establishment of a National Job Criteria Joint Committee. The level of discourse reflected not only a deep understanding of the issues presented but also a shared commitment among participants to propose forward-thinking and impactful solutions. Opening Remarks and Attendance The programme was formally opened with remarks from: • Hon. Kenneth Bryan, Chair of the Youth Parliament Programme • Hon. D. Ezzard Miller, Speaker of the House of Parliament • Hon. André Ebanks, Premier of the Cayman Islands • Hon. Joseph Hew, Leader of the Opposition Each speaker highlighted the importance of youth engagement in the democratic process and commended the participants for the preparation, confidence, and professionalism throughout the debate. Leadership roles were held by Youth Parliament Speaker of the House, Mr. De-Andre Beckford; Youth Parliament Premier and Minister for Financial Services & Commerce, Miss Raniah Berry; and Youth Parliament Leader of the Opposition, Miss Johanah O’Connor.
Receptions and Awards Ceremony The 19th Youth Parliament programme began with a welcome reception held on Thursday, 30th October at the Governor’s Residence, hosted by Her Excellency the Governor, Mrs. Jane Owen. The reception brought together Youth Parliamentarians, Members of Parliament, and parents, providing an opportunity to connect, engage, and reflect on the importance of youth involvement in governance. The programme concluded on the 9th March, 2026, with an Awards Ceremony held at the George Town Yacht Club, where Youth Parliamentarians were recognised for their exceptional performance, leadership, and dedication throughout the programme. Awards highlighted excellence across key areas, including debating and overall contribution, reflecting the high standard of participation demonstrated during the 19th Youth Parliament. The ceremony brought the programme to a close, celebrating both individual achievement and the collective promise of Cayman’s next generation of leaders. Award Winners • Best Debater – Government: Mr. Rayne Harding • Best Debater – Opposition: Mr. Dominic Anderson • 1st Runner-Up (Government): Miss Tashyla Thompson-Brown • 1st Runner-Up (Opposition): Miss Sienna Bryan • 2nd Runner-Up (Government): Miss LeJae McLean • 2nd Runner-Up (Opposition): Miss Johanah O’Connor The Youth Parliament Programme, under the guidance of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Cayman Islands Branch, continues to empower young people by providing them with an authentic experience of legislative debate, policy analysis, and democratic engagement. For more information on the Youth Parliament Programme, visit Parliament’s website.