Corporate entities here are being encouraged to invest in local athletes.

The call came last Friday, December 15 from Founder and President of Athletes in Action (AIA) Shane Cadogan who was speaking at the organisation’s local launch event.

AIA is a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to transforming the lives of youths in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) through sports.

Cadogan, addressing the gathering at the Grenadine House in Kingstown Park said that the empowerment and guidance of student athletes is important as sports is transformative.

President of Athletes in Action (AIA) Shane Cadogan

“We believe that, within the talented athletes of St Vincent, there exists a boundless potential to achieve greatness on the global stage. These athletes have already showcased their exceptional abilities, their dedication, and their hunger for success.

Yet, we recognize that potential alone is not enough. To truly unlock the talents of these athletes and allow them to flourish, they require the right environment, guidance, funding, and platforms”, Cadogan commented.

This is where AIA steps in, Cadogan said, not just as an organization but as a driving force committed to the holistic development of local athletes.

Cadogan, a local swimmer, noted that athletes are not just performers on the field, but ambassadors for our region, role models, and potential catalysts for positive change.

“With the right guidance and mentorship, they can inspire the next generation to believe that dreams can be achieved, no matter the odds.

“…It’s about acknowledging the economic and social potential of our athletes. Through sports, we can create pathways to education, career opportunities, and economic growth. By supporting and managing our athletes effectively, we can stop the brain drain and ensure that the talent nurtured here benefits our own communities and economies,” Cadogan told the gathering.

He said the support of corporate entities is pivotal to realizing this vision and with the support of AIA and the corporate world, “we can provide these athletes with the resources they need to thrive, from world-class training facilities to educational opportunities and mentorship programs.”

Encouraging persons to come on board, Cadogan said that the involvement of the corporate world can make a profound difference in the lives of young people and the future of our region.

“St Vincent and the Caribbean have already shown the world their potential. Imagine what they can achieve with the right growth, guidance, funding, and platform.

“Together, we can nurture sporting talents that not only make us proud but also contribute to the positive development of our communities and our nations,” Cadogan said.

The AIA’s brochure says that $6000 of corporate engagement can unlock an average of $160,000 in high quality university scholarship education.

The event also heard from among others, local soccer coach Ian Sardine of System Three Sporting Academy and AIA Director Jules (Squash).

On Saturday December 16, the AIA held a football match and a fundraising event at Arnos Vale.