As we celebrate the Nevis Youth Career Expo’s fourth anniversary this week, I believe it is the perfect moment to reflect on the raw talent this island has to offer.
Nevis, alongside our brothers and sisters in St Kitts, forms a nation that has long been a beacon of resilience and innovation in the Caribbean.
Yet like many islands in our region, Nevis has grappled with retaining our best and brightest home-grown talent. Whilst our island attracts people from around the globe with its vibrancy, beauty, community and progressive initiatives, sector specific work has seen some of our citizens seek opportunities elsewhere.
Nevisian talent retention is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it is a testament to the quality of education and talent that our islands produce, as young Nevisians embark upon the world and contribute to the global economy
But last year, I set out in an open letter, that Nevis must not become a distant memory to our diaspora, as they seek personal and professional success. Nevisians have of course excelled in every facet of human endeavour in their adopted countries, contributing significantly to the development of their new homes. But they must not forget that their original home too, now offers many opportunities for success.
Our island percolates with fantastic talent – and where better showcased than the upcoming Nevis Youth Careers Expo?
The fourth anniversary of this insightful expo will empower Nevisian students and their families in exploring future career opportunities. Businesses should look to shape their workforce of tomorrow, emulating the true talent this island has to offer. Our next generation will help Nevis hit our highest heights yet.
My administration has been working tirelessly to create an environment conducive to retaining and attracting talent. Our Returning National/Diaspora Investment Policy demonstrates our commitment to encourage members of the Diaspora to return home to work, retire, and invest in Nevis. Our home-grown talent can access an array of duty exemptions, tax incentives, and streamlined processes for real estate and business investments, with a focus on fostering economic growth and strengthening our community here on the island.
My administration recognises and embraces the value of our diaspora community and all they have learned and can offer.
By leveraging the expertise and resources of our diaspora, we aim to foster a collaborative approach to economic development. The establishment of a standing Economic Council, comprising experts from both the island and the diaspora, will serve as a much-needed think tank to guide our economic policies and strategies.
Indeed, in my recent budget address, I underscored the importance of job creation as a central pillar of our development strategy.
We are committed to bolstering public-private sector partnerships, which will not only attract investment but also create opportunities for our youth to engage in meaningful and fulfilling careers. The announcement of significant investments in tourism and energy sectors, including the Four Seasons Nevis Peak Residences project and geothermal energy production, are examples that highlight the potential for growth and innovation on our thriving island.
However, despite our efforts, talent retention remains a significant challenge, exacerbated by factors such as specific sector opportunities and the allure of higher salaries abroad. To combat this, we must continue to invest in our education infrastructure, incorporating technology to enhance learning outcomes and prepare our youth for the challenges of the 21st century.
Addressing the talent retention in Nevis, more widely in St Kitts and Nevis, requires a multifaceted approach from my administration that involves creating opportunities, fostering a supportive environment, and engaging our diaspora community.
As Premier of Nevis, I am committed to ensuring that our island remains a place where our youth can thrive and contribute to our collective prosperity.
Together, we can build a resilient, productive, and inclusive society that leaves no one behind.
The future of our island depends on our ability to retain and attract talent, and I am optimistic that with the right strategies and partnerships, we can achieve this vision.
