By Azara Lavia
In a groundbreaking moment for both JCI Antigua and the wider JCI West Indies region, Senator Shenella Govia has been officially elected as the International Executive Vice President (IEVP) during the JCI World Congress held from October 29 to November 2 in Taiwan.
This momentous accomplishment marks a series of unprecedented milestones, both for JCI Antigua and the JCI West Indies, as Senator Govia became the first person from Antigua and Barbuda to hold the IEVP position; the first female from Antigua to achieve this honour; the fourth person from the West Indies to serve as IEVP; the first female from the West Indies in this role; and the youngest IEVP from the West Indies.
During an an interview with Observer media, Senator Govia shared her immense pride and excitement over her election.
“It’s an exhilarating feeling. I am deeply honoured and humbled to be elected as the first Executive Vice President from Antigua and Barbuda. To be the first woman from the West Indies in this role, and the fourth in the 64-year history of JCI West Indies, is truly a privilege. This achievement is not just for me — it’s for all Antiguans, Barbudans, and young people across the West Indies. It shows that with determination and vision, anything is possible. I am excited to begin this journey and work alongside others to create a lasting impact,” she said.
Senator Govia is committed to advancing two key priorities during her tenure, namely youth development and women’s empowerment.
“These issues are central to my agenda,” she emphasized. “I am particularly excited about creating mentorship programmes that will connect young leaders, especially women, with experienced mentors who can guide them in both their personal and professional development. I also look forward to launching advocacy campaigns that will amplify the voices of women and youth in leadership.”
Her election as IEVP not only brings pride to JCI Antigua, but serves as a reminder of JCI’s mission to create opportunities for youth and women to excel in leadership roles.
As Senator Govia takes on this global responsibility, it represents a major leap toward JCI Antigua’s long-term vision of seeing a JCI World President emerge from the West Indies.
This momentous achievement builds upon the momentum of JCI Antigua’s recent successes, which include multiple awards at the JCI West Indies National Convention in Guyana.
The organisation’s commitment to making a difference is evident through its impactful community projects focused on issues such as road safety, mental health, and youth empowerment. These initiatives have helped solidify JCI Antigua’s standing as a leading chapter in JCI West Indies.
