The 7th International Conference of Ministers and Senior Officials Responsible for Physical Education and Sport, MINEPS VII, took place in Baku, Azerbaijan from 26-29 June 2023. MINEPS VII is a global conference engaging governments, athletes, private sector, and other stakeholders to increase investment in sport, improve sport practices, foster quality physical education, and magnify the positive impact of sport on health, society and the economy. The conference underscored the importance of measuring the impact of sport to foster participation, attract investments and improve individual and societal wellbeing.
Two young athletes from the Caribbean had the opportunity to participate in MINEPS VII and share their views on the power of sport as a vehicle for empowering youth, the opportunities but also the challenges to participation in sport for youth, and the importance of meaningfully including young voices in the development of inclusive sport policies.
The following is an interview with youth participant and Olympic swimmer, 20-year-old, Mikaili Charlemagne of Saint Lucia. This collegiate champion utilized her feature as the keynote speaker for the opening session of the Ministerial segment of the conference, to send a strong message to Ministers and decision-makers on the importance of including young voices in the development of the sport policy agenda.
How was your experience at MINEPS VII?
I had an amazing time at the MINEPS VII Conference. The discussions at the main events and side events were riveting and eye opening. I got the opportunity to network and meet amazing individuals who are fostering change in their communities and countries. I enjoyed the cultural displays we had at the dinner events. It was quite interesting to learn about the Azerbaijan culture through dance, music and food.
What did you learn?
Coming from a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), the knowledge gained from listening to fellow athlete's stories and contributions from delegates and speakers is immeasurable. I learned about different models that are currently being used to develop sports. My understanding of the importance of having a focus on the needs of the community, that projects and programs seek to help, was expanded. Lastly, I learned about various projects that are currently underway by major organizations that can potentially assist in sport development in Saint Lucia.
Why is it important for young people to participate in sports?
Sport fosters healthy lifestyles and practices. Having youth involved in sport increases the chances that they will go on to adopt and implement healthy practices in adulthood. In addition, with sport engagement there is a reduction in idleness which aids in the reduction of crime and school dropouts. There are also opportunities such as advanced education, professional and personal development to be gained from youth participation in sport. These positive outcomes make a case for youth engagement and participation in sports.
