The CHOGM 2026 Secretariat is pleased to announce the official selection of four dynamic young content creators who will serve as Social Media Correspondents for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026.
The selected correspondents are Janet Simon, Gabrielle Hamlet, Lutrell John, and Joshua Edwards.
These individuals have been chosen for their exceptional communication skills, strong on-camera presence, ability to create engaging, informative and professional digital content.
As Social Media Correspondents they will play a pivotal role in amplifying the voice and visibility of CHOGM 2026 by delivering timely updates, behind-the-scenes coverage and community-focused storytelling across official digital platforms.
The CHOGM 2026 Social Media Correspondents initiative seeks to engage audiences particularly youth through creative and relatable content, while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, ethics and professionalism.
The correspondents will report on key developments, highlight important themes and bring a fresh, authentic perspective to the CHOGM experience.
To qualify for this role, applicants were required to demonstrate a strong command of the English language, both written and oral, as well as a clear understanding of news-style storytelling.
Candidates also needed to show proficiency in content creation, including access to tools such as HD video recording devices, editing capabilities and an appreciation for production elements such as lighting, sound and framing.
Additionally, applicants were expected to be active members or alumni of youth-focused organizations and leadership platforms, including the Antigua and Barbuda National Youth Ambassador Programme, CARICOM Youth Ambassador Programme, National Youth Parliament, or to have served in leadership roles such as Head Boy, Head Girl or Prefect within secondary schools across Antigua and Barbuda.
The selected correspondents have also demonstrated a keen interest in areas such as climate change, gender, civil society, social issues, sports and youth development key thematic pillars that align with the broader CHOGM agenda.
A panel comprising members from the Commonwealth Secretariat and the CHOGM 2026 Taskforce facilitated the adjudication process. Committee Co-Lead Sharifa George stated “We are proud to have put forward these young individuals to the panel for selection.
They demonstrated intelligence, professionalism, and a passion for their areas of interest, and impressed the panel with their individual talents.”
The CHOGM 2026 Secretariat congratulates Janet Simon, Gabrielle Hamlet, Lutrell John, and Joshua Edwards on their selection and looks forward to their contributions in shaping a vibrant and engaging digital narrative for this landmark event.