H. E. Hadiya Claxton Officially Launches TrailBlaze SKN Mentorship Programme to Empower the Next Generation of Leaders in St. Kitts and Nevis

TrailBlaze SKN, an innovative mentorship programme founded by Her Excellency Dr. Hadiya Claxton, is proud to announce its official launch, providing transformative mentorship opportunities for driven students across St. Kitts and Nevis. Aimed at fostering personal growth, academic achievement, and readiness for higher education and professional success, TrailBlaze SKN is designed to support students in building the skills, confidence, and connections needed to excel in their future endeavors.

TrailBlaze SKN is open to self-motivated students who are recognized for their dedication and good standing within their schools. Students must be recommended by a school official—such as a Principal, Assistant Principal, Guidance Counselor, or Teacher—and will be selected from high schools and colleges throughout St. Kitts and Nevis. TrailBlaze SKN now invites students in 4th Form through 6th Form to apply. One to three students from each participating school or college in St. Kitts and Nevis will ultimately be chosen to participate in the mentorship programme.

H. E. Hadiya Claxton, Special Envoy for Investment, Development and International Business Relations – Government of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, first announced the new innovative mentorship programme on September 10, 2024 when she addressed the nation in celebration of the 41st anniversary of independence of St. Kitts and Nevis at the Prime Minister’s Lecture Series.  “TrailBlaze SKN is about unlocking potential and providing young people with guidance and support as they pursue their ambitions. We believe that with the right mentorship, students can develop the skills and confidence they need to make a difference in their lives and communities,” said Her Excellency Hadiya Claxton, Founder and Director of TrailBlaze SKN.  

Her Excellency Dr. Hadiya Claxton

Ms. Vicki Anslyn joins TrailBlaze SKN as its Co-Director.  Ms. Anslyn is an accomplished senior executive with extensive experience as a transformational leader with an ability to cultivate trusted business relationships at all levels.  Her professional background includes leadership roles in top-tier global consulting firms.  Ms. Anslyn is currently based in the United States, but she was born and raised in Nevis and has maintained very close ties with the country of her birth. Ms. Anslyn is elated to join the TrailBlaze SKN team and to have the opportunity to assist in empowering the next generation.

To be considered for this opportunity, students (4th Form through 6th Form) are required to submit the following documents by November 30, 2024:

Short essay written by the student describing the student’s short term and long term goals and explaining why the student would like to be considered for the TrailBlaze SKN mentorship programme.  Essay should not be more than one typed page (single spaced).

At least 1 letter of recommendation from a teacher, guidance counselor, Principal, or Assistant Principal.  Students may, but are not required to, submit an additional letter of recommendation from a professional in the community, or a senior civil servant.

All application materials should be submitted to trailblazeskn@gmail.com. 

TrailBlaze SKN hereby invites experienced professionals in St. Kitts and Nevis, and experienced professionals in the St. Kitts and Nevis diaspora and the greater Caribbean diaspora, to consider becoming a mentor.  Anyone who would like to become a mentor should submit their resume to TrailBlaze SKN (trailblazeskn@gmail.com).  TrailBlaze SKN will ultimately match students with professionals based on shared interests to the extent possible.  

With a mission to empower future leaders, TrailBlaze SKN will pair students with mentors who will help them develop critical skills, navigate their academic journeys, and prepare for the professional world. The programme’s launch marks a significant step toward building a robust network of young leaders who are ready to make impactful contributions in St. Kitts and Nevis and beyond.

For more information about TrailBlaze SKN and any questions about applying, please contact trailblazeskn@gmail.com. High schools, colleges, students, parents, and anyone interested in mentoring may also contact H. E. Hadiya Claxton (hclaxton.skn@gmail.com) or Vicki Anslyn (vanslyn.skn@gmail.com) for further details and information.  

About TrailBlaze SKN

TrailBlaze SKN is a mentorship initiative founded by Her Excellency Hadiya Claxton, designed to empower the youth of St. Kitts and Nevis through meaningful mentorship. By connecting students with experienced professionals, TrailBlaze SKN aims to support personal growth, academic success, and professional preparation for the next generation of trailblazers in the region.

Media Contacts:

TrailBlaze SKN

Email: trailblazeskn@gmail.com 

H. E. Hadiya Claxton, Founder and Director

Email: hclaxton.skn@gmail.com

Vicki Anslyn, Co-Director

Email: vanslyn.skn@gmail.com