Belizean students and young professionals gathered in Belmopan on Tuesday for a panel discussion focused on the opportunities available through Caribbean regional integration as part of CARICOM Week 2026 activities.
Hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade under the theme “Your Future, Your Region,” the event brought together participants from secondary and tertiary institutions for discussions on education, skills development, entrepreneurship, professional mobility, and regional collaboration within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The discussion, titled “Building Skills, Expanding Access, and Contributing to Belize: What CARICOM Means for You,” explored how regional integration continues to create pathways for Belizeans across various sectors.
Delivering welcome remarks, Belize’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Hon. Marconi Leal Jr., reflected on the country’s commitment to regional cooperation since joining CARICOM in 1974.
Leal emphasized that CARICOM extends beyond institutions and agreements and is rooted in opportunities created through collective regional development.
Addressing the young audience, he encouraged participants to see themselves as active contributors to Belize’s future and the advancement of the wider Caribbean region.
Panelists shared personal experiences and professional insights, highlighting how regional engagement and collaboration have shaped their careers. Discussions also focused on how young Belizeans can take advantage of opportunities available through CARICOM while contributing to national development.
The event underscored the importance of preparing Belize’s youth to compete in an increasingly interconnected regional and global economy. Participants were encouraged to engage actively and explore the opportunities available through regional cooperation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade thanked moderators, panelists, participating institutions, and attendees for contributing to what it described as a meaningful dialogue during CARICOM Week.
Officials said the event reinforced the importance of regional unity, shared opportunity, and youth empowerment as Belize continues to strengthen its role within CARICOM.
