UNICEF and Ministry Launch Second Cohort of Child Rights Ambassadors in Barbados

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, 1 July 2026 – Twenty-four children from across Barbados have officially joined the second cohort of Child Rights Ambassadors, a collaborative initiative by the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs through its National Monitoring Committee on Child Rights, in partnership with UNICEF, which empowers children and young people to champion the rights of their peers.

Following the successful launch of the first cohort of 19 ambassadors in 2025, this year's expanded group reflects a diverse cross-section of Barbadian youth, including children from various schools, communities and with diverse abilities.

The ambassadors participated in intensive training held at UN House from 7–10 April 2026. The programme included sessions focused on child rights, advocacy, leadership, communication and personal development, with support from the National Transformation Initiative (NTI), which will continue to provide mentorship, guidance and mindset development to support the ambassadors' overall growth and leadership journey.

Each ambassador has been paired with a mentor selected from a distinguished group of young Barbadians who are volunteering their time and experience to support the ambassadors' leadership journey.

The Child Rights Ambassadors are expected to lead and participate in a range of activities and campaigns aimed at raising awareness of children's rights and encouraging other young people to speak out on issues affecting them, including abuse, community violence and mental health. Their outreach will include sporting activities, the arts, digital platforms and traditional media engagement.

“Children and young people have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives and communities,” said Maryam Abdu, Deputy Representative a.i. for the Eastern Caribbean. “These ambassadors are not only advocates for children's rights, they are leaders, innovators and changemakers. UNICEF is proud to support spaces where children's voices are heard, valued and amplified.”

Faith Marshall-Harris, Chair of the National Monitoring Committee on Child Rights, said the initiative is designed to strengthen children's participation while helping them develop leadership and advocacy skills.

“The National Committee on the Rights of the Child strongly endorses this initiative to encourage children to participate while developing the requisite leadership skills. We also know that the best influences on children are often other children who have displayed the talent for advocacy to ensure that children's rights are consistently promoted. We look forward to the ambassadors' positive engagement,” she said.

Racquel Griffith, Communications Lead at the National Transformation Initiative, said the programme is already helping ambassadors develop the confidence and mindset to become leaders in their communities.

“One of the most encouraging discussions we've had with the ambassadors throughout our sessions has been about the power of choice. While there will always be challenges beyond their control, they can choose how they respond, how they adapt and how they lead. It's a privilege for the NTI team to be part of that journey, helping to reinforce the mindset and confidence they're building as ambassadors for children's rights and champions of positive change within their communities.”

The programme has already inspired many of the ambassadors to use their voices and talents to support other children.

“My goal is to create a safe space for others,” said Child Rights Ambassador Abigail. “I want children to know that there is someone who wants to listen to them, believe in them and help them express their feelings. I want to help children understand their rights and know where to turn for support when they need it.”

For fellow ambassador Makai, education is a key priority.

“One of the rights I am especially passionate about is the right to education,” he said. “Every child deserves access to quality education because it opens doors to opportunities and helps build a better society. Through this programme, I hope to encourage young people to stand up for their rights and ensure that no child is left behind.”

The Child Rights Ambassador Programme forms part of broader efforts by UNICEF and partners to strengthen child participation and ensure that children's perspectives are included in national development efforts.