Antigua and Barbuda has approved the appointment of Jamaican dancehall artiste Masicka as Cultural Ambassador for Youth Talent Development and Creative Industries Collaboration.

The decision, taken at the March 24 Cabinet meeting, forms part of a broader push to expand the country’s creative industries sector, strengthen youth development programmes and deepen cultural ties across the Caribbean.

As part of his role, Masicka is expected to work with the government to develop emerging musical talent, provide mentorship and training opportunities, and support youth intervention initiatives, particularly targeting at-risk young people.

Under the first phase of the programme, three young Antiguan and Barbudan artistes will be selected for a Jamaica-based exchange, where they will receive studio training, songwriting development, vocal coaching and exposure to music producers and record labels.

The initiative will also offer insights into touring and the business side of the music industry.

A national youth intervention and mentorship programme will also be rolled out, focusing on school-aged and at-risk youth through workshops, motivational sessions and conflict resolution activities using music.

Masicka is also expected to host a National Youth Creative Empowerment Forum Series, featuring discussions on the music industry, entrepreneurship, mental health and leadership.

Officials said the initiative is aimed at building internationally competitive artistes, reducing youth delinquency through creative engagement and positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a regional hub for the creative industries.

Cabinet also approved government support for the initiative, including travel assistance for selected participants, coordination through relevant ministries and support for national youth forums.

In a separate decision, Cabinet appointed leading Warri players Trevor Simon and Terrence Kambuie Charles as Cultural Ambassadors in recognition of their role in preserving and promoting the traditional game.

Warri, a strategy board game rooted in African heritage, is regarded as one of the oldest games of its kind and has seen renewed interest in Antigua and Barbuda, particularly in schools.

Cabinet praised both men for their contribution to the development of the game locally and internationally, noting their efforts to pass on the tradition to younger generations.

As ambassadors, Simon and Charles are expected to continue promoting Warri, support its integration into youth programmes and represent the country on the international stage.

The government said the appointments reflect its continued investment in youth development and the preservation of cultural heritage.