Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — Tuesday, 10 February 2026: Ms. Arielle Neely has been shortlisted as a Top 20 finalists out of 977 entries for the Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work, becoming the first Turks and Caicos Islander to achieve this distinction.
The Commonwealth Youth Awards recognize and celebrate young people aged 15 to 29 across the Commonwealth who are leading impactful, innovative, and sustainable development initiatives within their communities both professionally and voluntarily.
Ms. Neely’s journey with the Commonwealth has been marked by perseverance, vision, and a deep commitment to youth empowerment. Her engagement began in September 2024, when she was shortlisted as a Top 5 finalist for Vice Chairperson for Policy and Advocacy of the Commonwealth Youth Council. Her campaign, themed Amplifying Youth Power: from voices to vision, advocacy to action, tables to transformation, outlined bold and practical proposals, including the establishment of a Policy and Advocacy Committee, data-driven advocacy campaigns aligned with global observances, and the creation of a Research and Policy Analysis Unit to strengthen evidence-based youth engagement across the Commonwealth.
Although she did not secure the elected position, Ms. Neely’s leadership and policy vision impressed the Commonwealth Secretariat, resulting in her invitation to participate in the Commonwealth Youth Leaders’ Summit in March 2025. The summit focused on emerging youth development issues, governance, advocacy, communications, and strategic planning, while strengthening collaboration on youth-led initiatives.
During this engagement, Ms. Neely was invited to speak at the United Nations Economic and Social Youth Forum during the Caribbean Regional Session. At this forum, the National Internship and Apprenticeship Programme was recommended for replication across the Caribbean, positioning the Turks and Caicos Islands as a model for youth workforce development in the region.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Arielle Neely stated: “This moment means so much more to me than an award or a title. I am incredibly grateful to represent the Turks and Caicos Islands and to show that our ideas, our passion, and our commitment to service have a place on the global stage. My hope is that my journey reminds young people that even when the path feels uncertain, your purpose is valid, your voice is powerful, and the work you do with heart and integrity can create real and lasting change.”
In commenting on the achievement, the Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture stated: “Ms. Neely’s shortlisting is a source of national pride. Through her role as Career Advancement and Programme Coordinator, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to youth development. Her work continues to strengthen opportunities for young people in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and her recognition by the Commonwealth affirms the quality and impact of the programme she helps to lead.”
The Commonwealth Youth Awards Ceremony will be held on March 11, 2026, at Marlborough House in London, the official headquarters of the Commonwealth. At the ceremony, Ms. Neely will receive a commemorative trophy and will learn whether she has been selected as the Regional Award Winner and or the Commonwealth Youth Award of the Year.
Ms Neely’s accomplishment stands as a powerful reminder that meaningful global impact can emerge from small island states. Her journey reflects the strength, resilience, and promise of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ youth, and her success is a milestone not only for her, but for the nation as a whole.
Twenty finalists for the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work