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Youth Forum Engagement with Ms. Michelle Muschett: Inspiring Youth on Perspectives for Justice, Gender, and Security in Trinidad and Tobago
September 23, 2025
Youth Forum Engagement with Ms. Michelle Muschett Group Photo
On Friday, 19 September 2025, UNDP Trinidad and Tobago Multi-Country Office had the pleasure of hosting Ms. Michelle Muschett, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean, for a special engagement session with the young people of the UNDP Youth Forum on Justice, Gender, and Security in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Youth Forum is a flagship initiative designed to foster democratic resilience and gender equality through youth leadership. It builds on the momentum of the “We Ting” Community Caravan, which engaged youth across six municipalities and surfaced grassroots priorities. This Forum is not just a one-off event. It is the beginning of a structured, inclusive, and participatory process that places youth at the center of national development.
This intimate and interactive gathering brought together passionate young leaders from across Trinidad and Tobago to exchange ideas and explore their role in shaping a more just and inclusive society. Ms. Muschett encouraged the youth to see themselves as co-creators of solutions, reminding them that their voices are critical to advancing peace, equality, and justice at the national and regional levels.
During the session, participants reflected on the challenges facing their communities, from gender-based violence to citizen security, and brainstormed bold, youth-driven solutions. Their ideas will feed into the Forum’s upcoming action plans and policy dialogues.
Looking ahead, the Youth Forum will launch a series of activities over the next year, including training sessions, youth-led community projects, and national dialogues. These efforts will create safe, participatory spaces for youth to champion gender equality, promote access to justice, and strengthen social cohesion.
The engagement with Ms. Muschett marks an important milestone in this journey. Together, we are building a platform where young people are not only heard but empowered to act.
"It's our job to push these thoughts into the atmosphere. Yes, the older heads are bound to disagree with our decisions at times, but I think making small changes, or at least making some noise, will open a gate for our preparation".Sage Woodley (UNDP Youth Forum Member)
