PM invests in youth-led Green ventures with $1M pledge

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has pledged $1 million Barbados dollars from her personal foundation to support youth-led green businesses through the new Green Rising in Barbados programme.

Speaking at the programme’s launch on Friday at the National Botanical Gardens, Mottley said the funds are from her winnings from the 2025 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity.

“I will commit to providing US$500 000 . . . so that the children of this country can truly benefit,” she said, adding that the money will help young people build environmentally sustainable ventures and careers.

Green Rising is a partnership between the Government and UNICEF, supported by a US$1 million grant from Generation Unlimited. The initiative is expected to reach some 12 000 young people in Barbados over the next three years through inclusive, gender-responsive programmes.

Mottley also announced plans to establish an advisory board to guide how the funding is allocated.

The launch concluded with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony involving the prime minister, students, and other officials. (SM)