Nysette Gomes
PHILIPSBURG--During the reception on the occasion of the new parliamentary year, a youth is awarded the President of Parliament Award for exemplary behaviour, leadership skills, as well as contribution to the community.
This year, President of Parliament, Sidharth Bijlani presented Nysette Gomes with the President of Parliament Award 2023. As she is currently studying abroad, Gomes could not be present to receive her award. Her mother, Lisette Carty, was present at the reception to receive the award on her behalf.
Gomes was on Tuesday presented with the 2023 President of Parliament Award in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements and exceptional leadership skills at a young age; her ability to effectively communicate, collaborate and inspire others; her commitment to promoting parliamentary democracy, advocating for transparency, and fostering positive change in the community.
Gomes’ mother Lisette Carty accepting the award on behalf of her daughter.
She was presented with the award during a reception to celebrate the opening of the 2023-2024 parliamentary year.
In 2022-2023, Gomes graduated with honours in culture and economy, and emerged as a top student in VWO 6 at Milton Peters College (MPC). She participated actively as a member of the MPC debate team and was one of the top five debaters in the school’s debate club. She was also MPC’s first speaker during the Interscholastic Debate Competition hosted by the St. Maarten Youth Parliament.
Gomes’ exemplary behaviour extends beyond the school walls as she has been actively involved in various community projects organised by service clubs on the island. She served as a judge for Interscholastic Spoken Word and participated in the Leeward Islands Debate Competition as a member of the National Debate Team. In her spare time, Gomes was also actively involved in other extracurricular activities such as sports and artwork.
She was nominated by Ahmad Gumbs, who was also present at the reception to witness the ceremony. In her acceptance speech via a video recording, Gomes expressed her passion for letting the voice of the youth be heard. She mentioned that it is for this reason that she has made it her mission to be an example and a helping hand to youths who are looking to be a change. Her desire is to be a part of a bigger discussion concerning her country and the world. Gomes also expressed her gratitude for being nominated for this award and hopes to see more efforts to help the youths blossom.
