NAS hosts educational event for World Youth Skills Day |19 July 2025
A souvenir photograph
The National Assembly hosted an education talk and networking event yesterday morning at its precinct to commemorate the 10th anniversary of World Youth Skills Day.
The day, marked on July 15, is aimed at empowering youth, confronting emerging social challenges, and recognising the power of young people as drivers of change.
The educational talk was opened by the chairperson of the Media, Youth, Sports and Culture Committee, Hon. Wavel Woodcock, who emphasised the need for youths to embrace lifelong learning, staying curious and interested in the world, and the importance of collaboration and collective efforts to achieve sustained growth.
The first intervention was given by Steve Monnaie, a rising young leader and one of six Seychellois chosen to serve in the inaugural Parlement Régional des Jeunes de l’Indianocéanie. Mr Monnaie spoke on his educational achievements, reflecting on the importance of achieving his qualifications namely a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and International Business from the University of London. Through formal education, he acquired the theoretical knowledge needed to progress forward and enter the world of work where he is now employed in the construction sector. His community outreach, volunteerism, and participation in national and regional forums have served to supplement his personal development and build robust connections. He called for youths to engage with people in their community and make a difference.
He was followed by the founder of Belliche, Ingrid Saurer. Best known for her eco-friendly products and sustainable practices, Ms Saurer reflected on the key ‘ingredients’ needed to create an empowered and inspired youth, namely dreams, beliefs, responsibility, perseverance, and trust in the process and in oneself. Among them, she underscored the importance of self-belief and resilience as a core principle in self-development; in a world that is uncertain and which may seem against you, believing in oneself is the key to taking that first step and overcoming the challenges that present. She encouraged the youth audience, of which her three children were present, to trust in themselves, remain consistent and determined, and to always follow their dreams and ambitions.
Distinguished alumnus of the International School of Seychelles, and executive assistant of Oceana Fisheries, Fedor Solovev, gave the subsequent intervention in which he encouraged the youths to make use of the ever-developing world around them. With the increasing digitisation of the world, knowledge is simply one click away if you are willing and ready to dedicate yourself to learning. Mr Solovev successfully completed six AS Levels, five A Levels, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. He expressed that by utilising the resources around him, seeking advice from mentors and colleagues, and pursuing the development of soft skills such as communication and teamwork, he is now able to contribute positively to the development of Seychelles in a vital industry.
The final intervention was given by Loni Adeline, the founder of LPA Structures and an engineer by profession. Beyond just the business, Mr Adeline is committed to inspiring the next generation through mentorship, public speaking, and community engagement. His intervention called for the youths present to conduct some self-reflection and ask themselves questions such as “who am I?” and “who do I want to be?” These questions form the foundation of growth, as it is vital to understand yourself in order to set your goals for the future. Mr Adeline then spoke on the importance of remaining focused on your own progress and emphasised that no one should compare themselves to others. “Remaining on your own path, staying dedicated, and maintaining discipline” were some of the crucial principles conveyed to the young audience.
Closing the ceremony, the Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Roger Mancienne expressed his deep thanks to the keynote speakers for their wisdom and insights which would serve to inspire the next generation of high-achievers and young entrepreneurs.
Hon. Mancienne noted that no matter what age you are, you can always find new ways to approach your self-development and improve your future.
The Speaker then highlighted the significance of hosting such an event at the National Assembly precinct, remarking that engaging with youths and providing a forum for education and exchanges is an important aspect of Parliament’s role in society.
The networking session was then opened, where the youth participants were able to converse, ask pertinent questions, and share experiences with the keynote speakers, honourable members of the Media, Youth, Sports, and Culture Committee (MYSCC), representatives of the department of Employment, and representatives of the Enterprise Seychelles Agency (ESA). Through this session, enriching conversations were held on the skills and steps needed to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
Contributed