June 23, 2004 – "Generating a New Era of Leadership" is the theme of a Generation Now! conference scheduled for Saturday at Divi Carina Bay Resort.
Organizers say the conference, to run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., will provide opportunities for networking and sharing ideas — and could help lay the foundation for a 10-year strategic plan for the Virgin Islands.
Generation Now! aims to promote a more proactive and politically astute community through education, information sharing, and voter motivation. The conference is aimed at persons ages 22 to 44.
According to Albert Bryan, Generation Now! vice president, the organization was formed two years ago to address the needs of people with growing families whose issues were not being addressed.
At the conference, panel participants will include Jennifer Nugent Hill, Kenneth Mapp, Kevin Jackson, John Abramson and Pastor Dexter Skepple.
Panels will address the following topics:
– "Workforce Development and Its Impact on the Economy." Discussion will include changes needed to prepare for a growing financial sector and improved tourism economy, an improved education system, and the ability to compete with neighboring islands.
– "Opening St. Croix for Business: Creating Strategies for Making St. Croix More Business-Friendly." Discussions will focus on combating negative images and fostering business-friendly environments, stressing the importance of private-sector investment and growth.
– "Awakening the Leader in You." This panel will examine the attributes of effective leadership.
– "A Realistic Approach to Tourism." Panelists will address the future of the hospitality industry on St. Croix, examine the balance between development and preservation, and discuss ways of making maximum use of St. Croix's heritage and culture.
– "The Virgin Islands Ten Years From Today — A Vision Worth Embracing." Presenters will discuss goals and objectives to give a clear picture of what the St. Croix community can become.
The registration fee of $50 includes breakfast, lunch and a conference bag and T-shirt. Sponsorship assistance is available for high school and college students, Bryan said.
To register online, send an e-mail to Generation Now! V.I. Registration information also is available by calling 771-2830 or 643-1710.
"If you are happy with the status quo, then you don't need to come to this conference," Bryan said. "If you want to be part of the solution, this conference is for you."
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