Climate Change and Job Security, the Focus of ABWU’s Youth Congress

Dozens of young workers will converge at the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) Freedom Hall on Thursday 15, August for the Union’s 2024 Youth Congress. The event is being held under the theme: Job Security for the Future Workforce: Impact of Climate Change.

The Congress will provide an opportunity for young workers from across multiple sectors to discuss the impact of climate change and climate policies on workers and the broader society. The young workers will also examine how employers and employees can work together to minimize the impact of climate-related hazards on the world of work.

ABWU General Secretary Sen. David Massiah described the Congress as an “important event” for the Union. “The ABWU is serious about our interest in young workers. We recognise that the continuity of this organisation is dependent on the quality of investment we make in our young workers,” Massiah said. “We have joined our international affiliates in accelerating efforts to advance young workers and enhance their participation in the Trade Union Movement and the world of work,” Massiah added.

Zachary Coker, the featured speaker for Youth Congress 24, hails from the United States and is the Director of Organizing for Air Transport District Lodge 142 of the Machinist Union (IAMAW), North America's largest transportation union. Coker is an enthusiastic union leader who is also recognised for his advocacy for young workers.

Youth Congress 24 will also feature a presentation by Diann Black-Layne, Director of the Department of Environment, examining the implementation of local policies to address climate change.

Raisa Roberts

Youth Congress 24 will also serve to provide a pool of volunteers from which a new executive will be elected for the ABWU Youth Arm. The current President, Raisa Roberts, describes the Youth Arm as an “important training ground for future leaders in the world of work.” According to Roberts, membership in the Youth Arm provides multiple opportunities for in-depth training in workers' rights, as well as networking opportunities, both locally and abroad.

Workers under the age of 35 who are interested in joining the ABWU Youth Arm or attending the Youth Congress are invited to visit: abwunion.com/membership or call 462-2005. Additional information is also available on the ABWU’s social media channels: @abwu268.