Youth Excellence Awards

Award: Excellence in Youth Empowerment Award

Award Description: This award celebrates an individual who is deeply invested in the holistic development of young people, preparing them for success in life and fostering the next generation of leaders.
 

Biographies of Nominees

Niah Ferary 

Niah Ferary is a resourceful and detail-oriented Operations Assistant with over three years of experience supporting airport operations at Union Island Airport. She is skilled in coordinating workflows, managing schedules, maintaining records, and ensuring operational efficiency in fast-paced environments.

Niah holds an Associate Degree in Business Management from T.A. Marryshow Community College) and has completed professional short courses in Customer Service, Airport Operations, and Safety. Known for her teamwork, adaptability, and commitment to excellence, Niah continues to contribute to the smooth and efficient functioning of airport operations.

O-Shanna Derrick 

O-Shanna Derrick is a dedicated professional with a BSc in Marketing (First Class Honours) and over six years of experience as a Senior Customer Service Assistant at Argyle International Airport since 2017. In this airport role, she manages passenger flow, assists with inquiries (including lost and found), completes various reports, and facilitates smooth transitions for arriving passengers.

She is a results-driven leader with proven abilities in event planning, organization, and decision-making. Her leadership is further demonstrated through her volunteer work as the Public Relations Officer and Women's Ministry President for New Life Prayer Tabernacle since 2023, where she manages social media, oversees event planning and budgets, and contributes to strategic goals. O-Shanna has also received specialized Protocol & Etiquette Training and is proficient in Microsoft Office and Canva.

Rianka Chance

Rianka R.P. Chance is a passionate and dedicated professional committed to fostering growth and making a meaningful impact in her community. With a strong background in communication, youth advocacy, and administrative support, she brings energy, creativity, and a collaborative spirit to every role she undertakes. Early in her career, Rianka contributed as a Youth Ambassador and Teacher Assistant, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to mentorship and youth development.

Beyond her administrative expertise, she is a skilled strategic communicator and voice-over artist, with talents in creative writing, public speaking, debate, and dance. Her work is marked by strong leadership, interpersonal, and time management skills. Rianka holds a Diploma in Business Studies from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College. Her educational foundation is complemented by active community engagement, including volunteer work with the Key Club and participation in programs such as the International Youth Convention, Youth Leadership Series II, and the Youth Ambassadors’ Programme. Recognized with numerous awards and certificates, including a Global Leadership Certificate and as an NTRC ICODE784 Finalist, Rianka exemplifies dedication to leadership, civic responsibility, and the empowerment of young people.

Isaiah Toney

Isaiah Toney is a self-motivated student and top academic achiever with a passion for Mathematics and Science. Recognized for his strong problem-solving and analytical skills, he has earned numerous accolades, including the Prime Minister’s Award for academic excellence (CPEA 2021), consistent placement on the SVGS Honour Roll, and top positions in national and regional competitions such as the NTRC ICODE784 and the French National Inter-Secondary Spelling Bee.

Beyond academics, Isaiah demonstrates leadership as Lead Journalist for the SVGS Ad Astra News Club and the 2025 Junior Minister of Tourism. He is also active in extracurricular pursuits, including public speaking, coding, app development, saxophone, and volleyball. Isaiah continues his education at St. Vincent Grammar School, building on a foundation from Georgetown Government School.

Khyle Browne 

Khyle Browne is a dedicated Quantity Surveyor and construction professional committed to advancing the development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. With extensive experience in property assessment, cost estimation, and project management, he currently serves with the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Ministry of Transport and Works and leads his own Browne’s Valuation and Quantity Surveying Services. His professional approach emphasizes quality, safety, environmental responsibility, and maximizing stakeholder value.

A graduate of the University of Technology, Jamaica, with a Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Honors), Khyle has received multiple academic accolades, including the Outstanding Academic Performance Award. Beyond his technical expertise, he is passionate about youth development and mentorship. Through Browne’s Initiative Program, he equips young people with practical skills, critical thinking abilities, and hands-on experience in community engagement and disaster assessment, preparing them to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Khyle’s professional journey began with internships at Markland Gordan and Associates Limited in Jamaica and progressed through diverse roles in property valuation, maintenance management, and community leadership. He combines strong technical skills, leadership, and a commitment to social impact, reflecting a holistic approach to professional and national development.

Nakeisha James 

Nakeisha N. James is a seasoned professional with over 12 years of experience in tax administration and compliance, currently serving as a Tax Officer I at the Inland Revenue Department in Kingstown, St. Vincent. She supports small business owners in understanding their tax obligations while fostering accountability and transparency.

As a Founder and Business Owner since 2014, Nakeisha has successfully launched and managed multiple businesses, focusing on sustainable models and community impact. She mentors aspiring entrepreneurs in business planning, registration, and operations, and has been recognized through the Women Empowerment Project and the PYME Grant Program.

Nakeisha holds a Bachelor's certificate in Human Resource Management and is currently pursuing a BSc in Entrepreneurship. She combines expertise in tax compliance, business development, financial management, and leadership to empower individuals and promote local economic growth.

Adia Daniel

Adia Daniel is a youth leader, legal advocate, and environmental consultant. She holds a Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination Certificate from SVG Community College and a CSEC with top grades in subjects including Biology, English, and Information Technology.

 Adia has professional experience in legal internships and administrative roles, and currently serves as a National Youth Mental Health Focal Point for UNICEF and Let’s Unpack It Inc., as well as a Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Youth Consultant with JEMS Environmental Management Services. A committed community leader, she is active with the SVG Girl Guides Association and has received awards for advocacy and leadership, including Vincentian Youth Ambassador and Most Promising Advocate.

She brings expertise in project management, communications, GIS mapping, and youth development to promote environmental sustainability and mental wellness across the Caribbean.