GREAT BAY--Applications are now open for students and teachers interested in participating in the 8th World Cultural Heritage Youth Symposium, scheduled to take place in Loutraki, Greece, from March 17 to March 21, 2027. The symposium will be held under the theme, “Young Guardians of World Heritages.”
The annual symposium is held in connection with the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through its focus on Education 2030, particularly SDG 4.7 and SDG 17.
The international gathering brings together students and teachers from around the world to increase cultural awareness, encourage mutual respect and strengthen collaboration among young people from different backgrounds. Participants exchange knowledge and experiences while working toward a shared understanding of the importance of protecting and promoting world cultural heritage.
St. Maarten was represented at the 7th World Cultural Heritage Youth Symposium in April 2026 by students Tiara Hodge, Siyona Gianchandani, Reese Prince, Hadassah Issac and Aljenée Henry. They participated under the theme “World Heritage in Young Hands.”
The students were accompanied by Jennelle Blackman, language teacher at Milton Peters College; Emlynn Francis, language teacher at St. Maarten Academy; and Marcellia Henry, Secretary General for UNESCO. During the symposium, the delegation shared aspects of St. Maarten’s culture with other participating countries and served as ambassadors for the island.
Following their return, the delegation shared their presentations and experiences with several organizations and stakeholders. Organizers also expressed appreciation to the sponsors whose contributions helped make St. Maarten’s participation in the international symposium possible.
Applications for the 2027 symposium are open to teachers and students between the ages of 15 and 24. The deadline to submit an application is October 16, 2026. Interested persons can complete the application form online.
For additional information, interested applicants may contactsxmyouthcouncil@gmail.comormarcellia.henry@sintmaartengov.org.
