October is National Youth Month in The Bahamas, and as celebrations continue nationwide: A packed room of parents, teachers, coaches and supporters filled the Coral Reef Room of the Pelican Bay Hotel to witness the power of young voices in action.
Under the 2025 theme, “Youth: Voices Unlocked,” the month-long observance aims to amplify the voices, vision, and values of the nation’s youth — the change-makers of today and tomorrow.
Launched 15 years ago, the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s National Youth Month Speech Competition, led by the Division of Youth, is an enduring investment in young Bahamians from across the archipelago. For two dynamic days, October 8 – 9, 2025, students courageously took to the stage at Pelican Bay Resort, confronting their fears and commanding the microphone in a patriotic showcase of passion, purpose, and pride.
The junior school category opened the competition on Wednesday, October 8, as students demonstrated that their voices are not just heard — they are a driving force for innovation, equity, sustainability and cultural identity. The event continued with intensity and inspiration into October 9, transforming the stage into an arena of strategy, skill and spirited expression.
Contestants collectively expressed a powerful message:
“Unlocking youth voices is more than just talking — it’s about connection, courage and change. When we unlock our voices, we connect like Wi-Fi hotspots; one person speaks and others tune in. Everywhere we go, we see talent, creativity and young men and women ready to lead, build and transform this nation. Yet too often, voices are muted. Remove the barriers. Hear us. Unlocking the voices of young people is unlocking the future of The Bahamas.”
Championing this call was Kion Coakley, a student of Bishop Michael Eldon High School and the 2025 Speech Competition Champion. His compelling presentation drew on the historic Burma Road Riot of 1942, reminding the audience of the power of youth-led movements.
“History shows us when young voices get unlocked — think about movements for justice, for equality, for change. Young people were there, organizing, pushing back, making their voices impossible to ignore. That moment lit a fire that helped lead us to Majority Rule and Independence,” said Coakley.
Participants called on national leaders to create structured spaces where youth ideas can shape real action — through Youth Advisory Boards, Youth Councils, committees and panels. They emphasized that when youth voices are included in decision-making, the nation becomes stronger, more inclusive and more united.
When the event climaxed, Kion Coakley claimed the top prize, trophy and cash award. Jasmine Rose of Sunland Baptist Academy placed second, while Ethan Mark of Tabernacle Baptist Academy secured third place. All competitors spoke on the theme, “We will use our voices to inform.”
The National Youth Month Speech Competition continues to be a flagship event, empowering young Bahamians to speak boldly, lead confidently and inspire national change.
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