As the 2026 Barbados Tourism Youth Congress got underway on Wednesday, youth and culture minister Senator Shane Archer challenged young people to step forward as leaders and help reshape tourism.

Speaking ahead of the debate at the Walcott Warner Theatre in the Errol Barrow Centre for Creative Imagination at UWI Cave Hill, Senator Archer told participants that hard work, preparation and bravery remain essential in leadership, regardless of age.

“Leadership is not determined by the number of birthdays that you have celebrated. It is determined by your character, your discipline, your preparation, and your willingness to serve.”