At just 17 years old, Anthurium Lewis is not only coaching archery to individuals three times her age on her home island of Tobago but is also channeling the confidence and skills gained from the sport into advocacy and diplomacy. She aims to amplify the voices of young people, particularly young women, who often face significant barriers in making themselves heard.
Lewis highlighted cultural norms taught to young Caribbeans, such as “speak only when spoken to” and “leave big discussions to the elders,” noting, “My biggest challenge is my age.”
She believes that sports help overcome these obstacles. “Archery gives you the discipline to keep pushing forward,” Lewis added.
Now, Lewis intends to leverage her platform as a Youth Leader for the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These internationally agreed-upon targets seek to advance peace and prosperity for people and the planet. Lewis aims to demonstrate that young people can drive change when the world makes space for their voices and equips them with the right skills.
She is convinced that sports are one of the most powerful avenues for developing these essential skills.
‘Young People Can Make a Difference’
Addressing young people directly, Lewis stated, “We have a voice. We have a mind. We have passion. You don’t have to wait until you’re 25 to fight for a cause… We can start now.”
The most profound transformation sport instills is often internal, beginning in the mind rather than with a trophy or title. Lewis views archery as an 80% mindset test and believes the self-esteem and discipline it cultivates in young people translate to all aspects of their lives.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by other young individuals with strong ideas but no platform, Lewis encourages her peers to trust their voices.
A Mission for Sustainability
Through her foundation, Lewis is on a mission to plant indigenous fruit trees across Tobago, guiding the island toward more sustainable practices and enhancing food security.
She actively visits schools, communities, and faith-based organizations, empowering young people to plant fruit trees such as sapodilla, soursop, sugar apple, breadfruit, and star apple.
“You won’t just find me planting trees,” Lewis said, adding, “You’ll actually find other young people, very young children, out there planting their own fruit trees and taking care of them.”
Efforts Yield Visible Results
During her initial visit to a rural primary school in Tobago, Lewis observed that the school grounds were neglected and abandoned. However, upon her return two months later, she was delighted to see the area cleaned up, with children diligently tending to their plants throughout the school day.
“I was so pleased with that transformation,” Lewis remarked, emphasizing how this work offers children a chance to step away from classroom noise, connect with peers, and build something tangible with their own hands. For Lewis, the sense of ownership fosters discipline and self-confidence, forming the core of the endeavor.
Anthurium Lewis spoke to UN News ahead of the annual ECOSOC Youth Forum (April 14-16, 2026), which focuses on advancing the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals by bringing together young leaders with policymakers.
