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Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis: Department of Youth – Nevis revealed its first awardee for the fifth cycle of the Youth Impact 12 Programme.
The first awardee is MISS JAZZÉE CONNOR, who will be awarded in the category of Patriotism.
According to the Department, Jazzée Connor, born in Newcastle Village on September 24, 1998, has always been driven by a deep-rooted passion for youth development, patriotism, and national pride. From an early age, she displayed an incredible talent for music and an unwavering love for her country, which would shape her remarkable journey.
It was further highlighted that the first winner of the award loves reading and listening to music. The Department claimed that with a love for reading and a keen ear for music, Jazzée found solace in the power of words and melodies. However, her participation in the Culturama Junior Calypso Competition at the tender age of 7 set her on a path towards championing patriotism and national pride. Jazzée showcased her talent and dedication, ultimately becoming the youngest person to secure first runner-up and second runner-up positions in consecutive years. During her second year, she stunned the audience with her captivating performance, “Don’t Sell My Country Out,” advocating for the land ownership of nationals in St Kitts and Nevis.
Jazzée has shown her interest in almost every field; her love for singing and dancing continued to grow as she became an avid member of the Rehoboth Church of God Liburd Hill, the Shekinah Dance Theatre, and the Nevis NEPAC Choir. She also had the honour of singing the National Anthem at various national ceremonies and private events. Her involvement in these activities reflected her commitment to promoting her culture and fostering a sense of national pride.
Embodying the spirit of patriotism, she joined the Saint Kitts and Nevis Defense Force Cadet Corps from 2010 to 2017, participating in various national ceremonies and events. During this time, she became an active member of youth regional and international organisations such as the Junior Achievers Program and the Nevis Literary and Debating Society. Her remarkable dedication and integrity earned her recognition through awards such as the Most Outstanding Modern Languages Student, the Nevis 6th Form Leadership Award, and the Hon. Hazel Brandy Leadership Award.
Driven by her passion for international relations, the recipient of the Youth Impact 12 Programme award embarked on a journey to Bethune Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida, to pursue a bachelor’s degree in International Relations. Despite coming from the smallest sovereign country in the Western hemisphere, Jazzée proudly served as the President of the B-CU Caribbean Students Association, becoming the first person from St Kitts and Nevis to hold this prestigious position. She also actively represented her country in affiliated organisations like Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and the National Council of Negro Women.
Understanding the power of diplomacy in fostering national pride, Jazzée sought to apply her academic qualifications by interning at the Embassy of St Kitts and Nevis and the Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States in Washington DC. Her role allowed her to showcase her skills and contribute to her nation’s international relations endeavours.
As per the Department, Jazzée returned to his home country and currently serves as a Foreign Service Officer in the Bilateral Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs et al in the Federal Government. Her role has taken her to various countries, where she represents her nation in global events and training programs. Jazzée’s commitment to her nation’s independence is unwavering, evident through her continuous service at the National Independence Parade and National Heroes ceremonies.
In addition to her diplomatic efforts, Jazzee believes in giving back to her community. She is involved in youth groups like Boys in Ties and climate action organisations like GirlsCare. Demonstrating her commitment to education, she also initiated the L-JQ award, which recognises the most outstanding modern language student at Charlestown Secondary School.
Jazzée’s love for her country influences her every decision in life. She encourages every young person to be guided by the very essence of St Kitts and Nevis’s motto – “Country Above Self.” Through her dedication to youth development, patriotism, and national pride, Jazzée Connor stands as a remarkable example of what can be achieved when one’s heart beats in harmony with the beating heart of their nation.
