**ABS-** A 13-year-old from Barbuda has been sworn in as the youngest ever member of the National Youth Parliament Association of Antigua and Barbuda. Khadalia Joseph, representing Barbuda as an Independent member, was selected by her peers during the Barbuda Youth Council sitting in May. She took her oath on Thursday, alongside five other new youth parliamentarians.

Youth Parliament Speaker Jessica Zouetr noted Joseph’s performance during today’s session, which focused on substance abuse among minors.

“We want to especially recognize Khadalia Joseph, who is a 13-year-old who joined us from Barbuda… she was selected among her members to represent Barbuda, and I think that she did an amazing job here this morning.”