Strengthening Youth and Cultural Partnerships Between Barbados and the United States

PHOTO: Left to right: Cleviston Hunte, Director of Youth Affairs, Division of Youth, Zachary Zimmerman – Political and Economic Officer, U.S. Embassy, Bobby Adelson Jr – Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Embassy, Karin Sullivan, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the U.S. Embassy to Barbados, Senator the Hon. Shane Archer, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Youth and Culture and Shennel Richards, Deputy Permanent Secretary (ag) Division of Culture.

Bridgetown, Barbados – April 30, 2026 – Senator the Honourable Shane Archer, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Youth and Culture, welcomed Mrs. Karin Sullivan, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the United States of America to Barbados, for a courtesy call at the Division of Youth Affairs, Sky Mall, Haggatt Hall.

The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas impacting youth development and cultural exchange. Also in attendance were senior officials from the Division of Youth Affairs and the Culture portfolio, along with representatives from the United States Embassy.

Discussions focused on expanding opportunities for Barbadian youth, including access to scholarships for young leaders, entrepreneurs, and athletes. The possibility of creating avenues for Barbadian youth to access football training programmes in the United States was also explored.

The development of Barbados’ film industry emerged as a key area for collaboration, with both sides acknowledging the sector’s potential for growth and international engagement. Conversations also addressed the need to support Barbadian digital creators, particularly in relation to monetisation opportunities on global platforms.

Minister Archer further raised concerns regarding access to United States visas for Barbadian creatives, noting the challenges faced by individuals invited to perform or participate in events abroad but unable to secure visas in time. The matter of navigating the U.S. visa process was discussed as an important area for continued dialogue.

The United States Embassy also highlighted its plans to embark on a comprehensive public diplomacy programme in recognition of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, presenting additional opportunities for engagement between both countries.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnerships that support the growth and development of Barbados’ youth and creative sectors.