ST.JOHN, GRENADA, OCTOBER 26- The New National Party has made a strong pitch to the youth vote ahead of the November 5 general election, promising jobs, housing, education support, and financing for young entrepreneurs and creative professionals.

At its “Better” rally in St. John on Sunday, political leader Emmalin Pierre joined candidates Amanda Japal-George and Kate Lewis to outline proposals to turn young people’s skills and qualifications into sustainable livelihoods.

Pierre promised thousands of jobs, more scholarships, expanded skills training, and greater access to housing, saying an NNP administration would prioritize youth development.

“Just know that more housing opportunities are coming for young people,” said Pierre, a former youth minister who led several youth programs including a flagship Imani program under a previous NNP administration.

“Be assured that thousands of jobs are coming for the young people of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.”

Drawing on her appointment as deputy director of youth at 25, Pierre presented her own experience as evidence of the party’s willingness to entrust young people with responsibility.

Lewis focused on the creative economy, promising grants, low-interest loans and business mentorship through a National Youth Employment and Business Finance Program.

“Exposure alone cannot feed your children,” she said. “Exposure alone cannot buy equipment, and exposure alone cannot pay your rent.”

Her proposals included a Monetizing Talent Program, stronger intellectual property and copyright protection, reduced vendor registration and promoter license fees, and a reduction in VAT on public entertainment tickets to 10 percent.

Lewis also promised a fully funded Cultural Ambassadors Program with paid roles, arguing that representing Grenada overseas should provide tangible financial rewards.

“Ambassador would not just be a pretty title,” she said. “It will be a paid job for our cultural ambassadors.”

Japal-George reinforced the appeal with a fiery defense of the NNP’s youth development record, using a placard highlighting past programs to underline her argument that voters should judge delivery alongside promises.

She outlined a rent-to-own housing pathway, innovation hubs, an increased youth budget and additional assistance for students from families in need, including uniforms, transport and learning materials.

“Young people must be given more than a responsibility to just vote,” she said. “We must be allowed to participate, to contribute, and to develop our talents and to lead.”

Together, the speeches framed the NNP’s appeal around employment, financial independence and participation in national leadership, as the party seeks a return to government after its 2022 election defeat.