President of the Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC) Roshanna Trim is calling on Government to include different faiths when hosting national events. 

"I implore the ministries and Government of Barbados to begin to include persons of other faiths during the launch of national events. particularly with multi-faith services, held in neutral areas and recognising all faiths as equal residents in Barbados," she said to applause.

Her exhortation came while delivering her report on BYDC's activities over the past year at the Annual General Meeting and Youth Hero Awards Ceremony held at United Nations House on Saturday Night. 

Thirteen people and organisations were recognised for their work and efforts over the years in areas such as agriculture, sports, media, entrepreneurship, assisting students with their academics and supporting women. Rashana Jones and Allan Farmer from United Youth Leaders of Barbados received the Youth Hero Award. 

Among those attending were Minister of Youth and Community Empowerment Adrian Forde; Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, Senator Romel Springer; Permanent Secretary Yolande Howard; BYDC patron Freida Nicholls, and members of youth organisations. 

Trim who will lead the organisation for another year, said that last year they made a commitment to " rebrand, rebuild and reconnect "  with young Barbadians, Barbadian homes, the private and public sector and other stakeholders and had started the process. 

Trim also spoke of initiatives such as a youth day session, job related forum and youth expo which provided the space for young people to showcase talents and have a platform "to speak freely, without fear, judgement, discrimination or censorship". 

Other activities included "This Is My Skin- an online campaign, and walkthroughs in the St. Michael communities of The Bayland, Nelson Street and Hall's Road. She said walkthroughs would continue and there would be school visits to engage young people.