Our country is facing some big challenges. 🌧️ Climate change is affecting our weather patterns and the price of food, leading to increased hardships for families. Many young people are migrating in search of better opportunities, while our economy remains stagnant. 📉 Education, health, and culture are underfunded and overstretched, impacting our communities and future prospects.
If we are to overcome these challenges, we know we can’t keep doing things the way we always have. This election is a crucial opportunity for us to make our voices heard. 🗳️ On October 24, it’s important that we come out and vote!
As you prepare to cast your ballot, here are some key questions to ask the candidates to ensure they have a clear plan for your wellbeing and the future of Montserrat:
1. Education: 🎓 How do you plan to truly modernize education so that the focus shifts from competition to collaboration? We need an educational system that fosters innovation and experimentation, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). What specific initiatives will you implement to ensure that our youth are prepared for the future?
2. Development: 🌱 How do you ensure a balance between economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection? As we develop critical infrastructure like marinas and airports, how will you protect the interests of Eastern Caribbean nationals involved in international partnerships? Furthermore, how will you ensure that future generations have access to land and housing in premium locations, making it as achievable to become a first-time homebuyer or land buyer as it is to buy your first car? 🚗 It’s vital that policies maintain local control at a minimum of 51% to ensure that our resources benefit our communities first.
3. Economy: 💰 How will you work with youth to diversify our economy and incentivize engagement in ocean and climate action? What steps will you take to commercialize our traditional knowledge and value our culture through new media, such as podcasts, video games, conferences, and festivals? 🎉 Additionally, how will you ensure energy independence and transition to 100% renewable energy by 2030? What opportunities will this transition create for youth in terms of jobs and skill development? How will you protect decent and high-paying jobs that ensure our circumstances do not limit our ability to take on technical, high-level, or specialist roles, such as scientists, data analysts, blue business, and boat captains? ⚓
4. Accessibility: 🌐 How will you ensure that environmental information is easily accessible to all? Will you create safe spaces for individuals, including those who are differently abled, to reconnect with nature? 🌳 It’s vital that everyone has the opportunity to engage in conversations about our ocean and its resources. This includes providing education and access to opportunities related to the blue economy.
5. Sustainability: 🌍 How will your policies integrate sustainability not just as an environmental concern, but as a crucial aspect of self-care and teamwork? It’s essential to continue doing the hard work without experiencing burnout or feeling overworked without adequate compensation. How will you incorporate joy, rest, relaxation, and sabbaticals into the sustainability framework? What support will be available for therapy and personal development coaching to ensure that individuals can thrive both personally and professionally? 💖
By asking these questions, you will help create the Montserrat you want for the future. Your vote is your voice, and it matters. Let’s take this opportunity to demand a brighter future together! ✨
Remember, this election is not just about choosing leaders; it’s about shaping the direction of our country and ensuring a better life for ourselves and future generations. Let's make our voices count!
What questions are on your mind? Share them and help foster important conversations as we prepare for this pivotal election! 💬
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