Two young Dominicans are representing the island at the 2026 Caribbean Youth Forum for Environment and Development (CARYFED), as Project Discovery Dominica continues its efforts to develop the next generation of environmental and community leaders.
According to a press release from Project Discovery Dominica, Geyoudena Desir and Reece Lantan are participating in the regional forum, which is being held in Grenada from July 14 to 24. The organization said their participation reflects its ongoing commitment to empowering Dominican youth through leadership development, environmental stewardship and regional collaboration.
The release noted that the opportunity builds on Project Discovery Dominica’s longstanding relationship with CARYFED. In 2023, three young Dominicans attended the forum in Trinidad and Tobago, where they gained leadership experience and a broader understanding of sustainable development and youth engagement across the Caribbean.
That experience inspired the launch of Project Discovery Dominica in 2024 as a national platform focused on developing environmentally conscious and community-minded young leaders. Later that year, Dominica hosted the CARYFED Forum, welcoming youth delegates from across the region and reinforcing the country’s commitment to youth leadership and sustainable development.
Project Discovery Dominica said this year’s participation marks another important milestone in the organization’s growth. Upon returning home, Desir and Lantan are expected to help revitalize the organization by recruiting new members, developing programmes and encouraging more young people to become active leaders in their schools and communities.
Chairperson Beverly Leblanc said the initiative is an investment in Dominica’s future.
“Our investment in young people is an investment in the future of Dominica. We are incredibly proud of our delegates as they represent our country and Project Discovery Dominica on the regional stage. Their participation is not only an opportunity for personal growth but also a chance to bring back fresh ideas, strengthen youth leadership, and help shape the next chapter of Project Discovery Dominica. We are excited about the energy, innovation, and vision they will bring as we work together to expand opportunities for young people across the island.”
Desir, who also serves as the organization’s Communications Officer, said she is looking forward to building on her previous CARYFED experience.
“My first CARYFED Forum was held in Dominica, and it was an incredible experience. It was also the year Project Discovery Dominica was launched. Although I was unable to attend last year’s forum, I am thrilled to participate in this year’s CARYFED Forum in Grenada. This is my first visit to the island, and I look forward to fully immersing myself in the experience. CARYFED has consistently created meaningful opportunities for young people across the region. As a representative of Project Discovery Dominica, I hope to use the knowledge, experience, and networks I gain to strengthen our chapter and share those opportunities with youth throughout Dominica.”
Lantan said he hopes the experience will inspire other young people to get involved.
“I expect CARYFED to be both an interesting and enjoyable experience, and I am looking forward to learning and growing throughout the forum. I would encourage other young people to get involved in opportunities like this. I hope to return with a new perspective that will help create a better future and inspire other young people to enjoy the same life-changing experience.”
Project Discovery Dominica said it remains committed to creating opportunities that promote leadership, volunteerism, environmental responsibility and active citizenship, while equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and regional connections needed to become advocates for sustainable development.
The organization also wished both delegates, who attend the Dominica Grammar School, a successful and rewarding experience at the regional forum.
