Junior Chamber International Guyana (JCI Guyana), a non-profit, youth-led civic and leadership development organisation for young people, continues to represent the interests of Guyanese youth on the regional stage.
A delegation of twenty-two (22) members represented Guyana at the recently concluded 66th JCI West Indies National Convention, held in St. Lucia from October 7–11, 2026. The delegation secured multiple awards and saw one of its own elected to serve on the National Executive Board of Directors for 2027. These achievements highlight the organisation’s commitment to leadership development, community impact and regional collaboration.
Among the major highlights was the election and installation of Senator David Seales as the 2027 National Executive Vice President of JCI West Indies, marking a significant milestone for JCI Guyana’s representation within the regional leadership structure.
JCI Guyana also received 11 awards; recognising achievements in individual leadership, organisational development, entrepreneurship, international cooperation and collaborative programming. The awards received were:
- Best Inter-Organizational Collaboration Project: JCI Guyana and Banks DIH Future Leaders Summer Program.
- Best Local Individual Development Program: iMentor Essequibo. ● Best International Cooperation Project: 2026 Peace Walk Initiative. ● Best Local Entrepreneurship and Business Program: Flip the Script. ● Most Outstanding Local President: President Gavin Thomas. ● Most Supportive Senator of the Year: Senator Allison Alexander. ● JCI West Indies Foundation and Enterprising Leader: Senator Christine Neblette.
- JCI West Indies Beacon Leader Award: President Gavin Thomas.
- Most Supportive Board Officer: National Executive Assistant Senator Gregoria Vaughn.
- Most Resilient Board Officer: National Vice President Senator Andrew Belle. ● JCI West Indies 2026 JVC Winner: Past Vice President Patricia Melville.
In addition to its wins, JCI Guyana received finalist recognition in the Skills Development Challenge, Best Local Growth and Development Program for iMentor Berbice 2.0, and Most Outstanding Local Organization.
Leadership development remained central to the delegation’s participation, with Vice President Ulecia Bishop, General Legal Counsel Angelisa Alexander and Past Vice President Patricia Melville graduating from the West Indies Leadership Academy. GLC Alexander also advanced to the final round of the Public Speaking Competition, while other delegates participated in the Debate Competition, Crisis Leadership Training and AI for JCI Leaders Training.
Beyond the convention sessions, the delegation participated in a mangrove restoration project, during which several hundred mangroves and other species were planted. Members also showcased Guyana’s culture, traditions and local products during Island Night, promoting cultural exchange and strengthening fellowship among regional organisations.
JCI Guyana extends appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, the Guyana Office for Investment, the Guyana Tourism Authority through Discover Guyana, and the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance for supporting its cultural representation at Island Night.
Reflecting on the organisation’s achievements, 2026 Local President Gavin Thomas emphasised the collective effort behind the results and the importance of continuing to develop young leaders, strengthen partnerships and deliver meaningful community initiatives.
“To every Chairperson, committee member, advisor, Senator, Board Officer and member who has contributed to our work this year, these achievements
belong to you. I extend commendations and appreciation to each of you,” President Thomas said.
Guided by its 2026 theme, “Igniting empowerment and impact,” JCI Guyana remains committed to building on these achievements, advancing leadership, service and positive change throughout Guyana.
