PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is urging every young person to channel their energy and ideas into their communities.

She is also calling on civil society and the private sector to ensure youth voices were heard, talents nurtured and aspirations realised.

Persad-Bissessar joined with the global community in celebrating International Youth Day 2025 on Tuesday under the theme “Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Beyond.”

She said in a message, “This underscores the power of our young citizens to engender practical, community-based progress. Our youth are not only tomorrow’s leaders, they are today’s agents of change. Their creativity, innovation and deep community roots drive sustainable development and digital transformation across our twin-island State.”

The prime minister reminded citizens that since taking office, her government has moved swiftly to protect and empower young people.

“We raised the legal age for alcohol consumption to 21 years and for gambling and marijuana use to 25 years, demonstrating our commitment to their health and future,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar said, “To the youth of Trinidad and Tobago, always remember that your passion lights the path to a more just, resilient, and prosperous nation. My government believes in you, stands with you, and will keep investing in your future. May God bless and protect you always.”

Looking ahead, the prime minister said youth policies will focus on:

• Major investment in Technical and Vocational Educational Training (TVET) and digital-skills training for the sustainable, technology-driven jobs of tomorrow.
• Expanded support for youth entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and community initiatives that localise the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Broader access to mentorship, financing, and safe innovation spaces where young people can create, collaborate, and lead