Minister Jacobs discusses mentorship programme with local sport figures

Steven Jacobs, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, has announced a major initiative focused on athlete welfare and long-term career planning following a high-level meeting with national sport figures.

The meeting brought together a dedicated group of current and former national athletes to discuss establishing a formal mentorship programme to develop the next generation of Guyanese talent.

Among those presents were former Guyana and West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan, former Guyana Harpy Eagles skipper Leon Johnson, Table Tennis Olympian Chelsea Edghill, Cyclist Geron Williams, seasoned Squash player Ashley Khalil, former Golden Jaguars players Charles ‘Lily’ Pollard and Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, Bodybuilder Kerwin Clarke, former long distance athlete Cleveland Forde and former national Rugby player now coach Theodore Henry.

Minister Jacobs emphasised that investing in “people” is as crucial as infrastructure development, noting that these engagements are vital for building a sustainable sporting product and expanding into sports tourism.

Key discussion points included creating clear career pathways for former athletes into coaching and training roles, which aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to marrying sporting excellence with educational opportunities.

All athletes present are reportedly committed to participating in the initiative, sharing experiences, and offering ideas on how to advance the future of Guyanese sport collectively.

The Ministry highlighted that the extensive experience and passion of the national representatives are considered “invaluable” in shaping a stronger sporting landscape for the country.