by Curlan Campbell
- Independence Youth Expo 2026 to be held on Saturday, 24 January
- Expo to provide dedicated space for youth participation within Independence programme
- Expo to expose young entrepreneurs already operating small businesses across
The Independence Youth Expo 2026, hosted by the National Celebrations Committee (NCC), on Saturday, 24 January 2026, from 3 pm to 8 pm on the Morne Rouge Playing Field, Grand Anse, will be part of Grenada’s 52nd Independence celebrations, centred on youth.
NCC member SherryAnn Noel explained that the Youth Expo was conceptualised to fill a noticeable gap in the Independence celebrations. While events such as calypso competitions, cultural showcases and the military parade remain staples of the national observance, the committee recognised the need for an activity designed exclusively for young people.
According to Noel, the Youth Expo is intended to serve a dual purpose by providing a dedicated space for youth participation within the Independence programme, and offering meaningful exposure to young entrepreneurs who are already operating small businesses across the country.
More than 25 youth entrepreneurs have confirmed their participation, representing a wide range of creative and commercial ventures. These include visual arts such as paintings and woodcraft, fashion and clothing, candles, cakes, confectionery, cotton candy, and an assortment of locally made juices featuring multiple flavours. Young business owners from several parishes, including St Andrew, will be featured.
The expo will also highlight youth talent in entertainment and culture. Performances are expected from young artistes from Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique, appearances planned by the Spiceland Dancers. Eleven-year-old steel pan musician Destiny, who performs with Nexa New Dimension, will also be among the featured performers.
A major highlight of the afternoon will be a Young DJs Clash, showcasing emerging DJs such as DJ Snappy and DJ Jamie, alongside guest appearances from more established entertainers who will be lending their support and mentorship to the younger generation.
Noel emphasised that the Youth Expo is free to attend and free to participate in. The NCC will cover all logistical needs for the young entrepreneurs, including tents, tables and electricity, allowing participants to focus solely on displaying and promoting their work. Patrons will also have the opportunity to interact directly with vendors, make purchases, and collect business information for future support.
Adding a peer-to-peer element to the event, a young interviewer, Shiloh, will engage participants at their booths, discussing their entrepreneurial journeys, motivations and the importance of youth involvement in business and creative industries.
The Independence Youth Expo aims to celebrate the creativity, innovation and ambition of Grenada’s young people, while reinforcing their role in the nation’s development. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and show their support.
Is “talent” confined to young people? For me, talent is talent. And “young” is no better or worse than “old” talent. Oh well. Traditional thinking again.