The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF), led by Brigadier General Telbert Benjamin, is on a mission to shape the nation’s youth into the leaders of tomorrow through its revitalized Cadet Corps program. This initiative goes beyond military training, aiming to instill discipline, resilience, and leadership qualities in young people while fostering a sense of purpose and community.

The ABDF’s mandate includes national defense, disaster relief, and maritime security, but Brigadier General Telbert’s vision for the force stretches far beyond traditional military roles.

One of the force’s primary goals is to invest in the nation’s future by offering training opportunities for young people through the Cadet Corps. This organisation not only provides practical military skills but nurtures essential life skills like teamwork, discipline, leadership, and resilience. These qualities are critical for shaping responsible, community- minded adults.

In a small country where opportunities for structured, positive youth engagement can be limited, the Cadet Corps serves as a critical vehicle for developing young talent. Through this program, young people can gain valuable experiences that equip them for a wide range of career paths, whether in the military, public service, or the private sector.

However, despite its transformative potential, the Cadet Corps faces significant challenges, including limited resources, a negative public image, and a general lack of support. Brigadier General Telbert has committed to overcoming these obstacles through a series of innovative programs designed to breathe new life into the organisation. “The organisation is under resourced, has a negative image in some instances, and is generally under supported.”

These obstacles have hindered its ability to attract new members and fully realise its mission of youth development. However, under the leadership of Brigadier General Telbert and with the support of stakeholders, there is a renewed push to breathe life into the organisation through a series of innovative initiatives.

A key component of this revitalisation effort is the creation of a mentorship program. This initiative will connect past members of the Cadet Corps with current cadets, as well as draw on the experience of serving ABDF members to guide and support the next generation. By building these intergenerational links, young people will benefit from the wisdom and experiences of those who have walked the same path before them.

In addition, the ABDF is working to develop an internship program in partnership with the local business community. This program aims to provide senior cadets with practical work experience, helping them bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world employment. This approach not only enhances their professional skills but also increases their employability, creating well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to society in meaningful ways.

Another exciting development is the planned establishment of independent cadet units in four secondary schools across Antigua. With the support of school principals, these units will operate within their respective institutions, providing students with direct access to the opportunities and training offered by the Cadet Corps. This initiative is expected to boost recruitment, improve visibility, and further entrench the Cadet Corps within the fabric of the nation’s educational system.

Recognising the need for broader community involvement, Brigadier General Telbert and the ABDF leadership hosted a public forum on September 28^th bringing together parents, educators, and the public to discuss how the Cadet Corps can play a more significant role in youth development across Antigua and Barbuda.

The forum saw participation from school principals, the Ministry of Education, members of the Youth Parliament, former cadets, and others. Discussions cantered on raising awareness about the Corps’ offerings, including mentoring opportunities and potential new program areas. Principals requested that Corps representatives attend their upcoming PTA meetings and extended invitations to present at school assemblies on Monday.

Based on the strong interest expressed, Brigadier Telbert’s team will be formalizing engagements with each of the schools that participated.

This collaborative approach enables the generation of fresh ideas and fosters a sense of shared responsibility in shaping the future of the country’s young people.