Youth leadership in the spotlight

At 13, Cleah San Nicolas is urging youngsters like herself to take part in activities that she says will empower the youth and turn them into productive citizens.

San Nicolas was one of the youth leaders who took part in yesterday’s signing of a proclamation declaring July 11 to Aug. 13 “Youth Leadership Month.”

The monthlong celebration, which includes summer sports camp and summer day camp, will be capped by the Division of Youth Services’ 30th anniversary celebration on Aug. 13 at the Susupe basketball court from 9am to 4pm.

“I would like to have this moment to recognize the Division of Youth Services-DCCA [Department of Community and Cultural Affairs] for providing opportunities and support that enables youth functions to become a reality,” San Nicolas said in her opening remarks.

Seven-year-old Alysonred Camacho and 17-year-old John Cenir read the proclamation that acting governor Eloy S. Inos signed before youth leaders, government officials, parents, and other members of the community.

In an interview with reporters after the proclamation signing in the governor’s conference room on Capital Hill, Inos said one of the major challenges is the ability to keep a greater number of youth in productive and positive activities.

He said the government is doing its best to keep as many youth as possible away from drug abuse, alcohol drinking, cigarette smoking, and other activities that put their health and safety in danger.

In his proclamation, Inos said youth leadership can be successfully achieved when youths receive support and training, share their expertise and leadership, and participate in the decision-making process in the planning and implementation of programs and policies affecting the youth and communities.

“The power of youths speaking publicly about their needs, interests, and their experiences has made and will continue to make an impact on the lives of youth everywhere,” he said.

San Nicolas, in her remarks, said youth policy has identified the key areas of youth concerns including education, training and employment, health, environment, recreation and sports, arts and culture, civic and citizenship.

DYS community action team chair Luis I. Camacho and DYS community outreach program coordinator Bill P. Limes are inviting the community to join the summer sports camp from July 11 to 22, from 8:30am to 12:30pm, at the Ada Gym in Oleai.

Participants will be able to take part in baseball, basketball, track and field, soccer, and volleyball.

The summer day camp will be from Aug. 1 to 12 at the Garapan Community Development Center, from 8:30am to 12:30pm.

Participating youth will be able to learn about bead-making, mwar making, banana painting, and weaving.