Drew says “youth must be at the table” during MIPAD interview

Prime Minister Terrance Drew has been recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award by MIPAD — but in his interview with the group, the focus wasn’t on himself. Instead, Drew used the platform to double down on one of his key messages: the youth must have a seat at the table.

“If the youth are not at the table, they will be on the menu,” Drew said, adding that too often leaders talk about “the next generation” as if their time hasn’t come. “Their time is now.”

Drew also urged young people to stay ready so they can grab opportunities when they appear. “Don’t worry about winning. Worry about what it takes to win — winning takes care of itself.”

The Prime Minister pointed to policies already in motion:

• Every child receiving a $1,000 Aspire investment account from age five, tied to financial education.

• Free tablets and computers to close the digital gap.

• Free college tuition, redirected from wasteful spending into a proper policy framework.

He stressed these measures aren’t charity, but strategy: building a generation that is more equipped than his own. “They’re already leaders in their own right. Our role is to make sure they have the tools to reach the next level.”

The full interview is available now on YouTube.