St. Maarten’s 2019 Senior Carnival Queen D’shnay Mathew York (sitting, left) and Teen Carnival Queen Shaneisha Robinson (sitting, right) embarked over the weekend on an initiative aimed at building character and self-esteem amongst youth on the island.
The Youth Academic and Community Achievement Summer Giveback targeted students ages 12-18. Members of the community were asked via Facebook to nominate a young person who has excelled academically, or one who has done outstanding work in the community. The queens then drew 10 names out of 30 names live on Facebook. In addition to open, positive discussions, the youth were treated to breakfast and lunch on both days sponsored by The Johnny Caker and Yvette’s Kitchen. The second day was filled with outdoor activities, where Pelican Peak sponsored a day of ziplining.
