President Herminie Calls on National Sports Laureates to Champion Youth Development Through Sport
President Patrick Herminie has called on Seychelles’ top sporting achievers to embrace a greater national role as agents of positive change, highlighting the transformative power of sport in shaping disciplined, resilient, and purpose-driven citizens.
During a meeting at State House this morning, President Herminie received the Best Sportswoman and Best Sportsman, Ms. Amandah Payet and Mr. Rodney Henriette, in the presence of the Minister for Youth and Sports, Ms. Kalsey Belle. The President congratulated the athletes on their outstanding achievements and their contribution to national pride.
President Herminie expressed his deep appreciation for sport, emphasising its role as a powerful tool in shaping young people. He highlighted that beyond competition, sport instils essential values such as discipline, integrity, and perseverance, while fostering a sense of responsibility and community.
The President invited both awardees to serve as Sports Ambassadors during their one-year tenure, encouraging them to act as role models and to engage actively with young people across the country.
Mr. Henriette, who earned the prestigious title at the age of 52, described the recognition as a profound honour in an interview with local media. He shared with the President that the award has inspired him to initiate outreach programmes in schools at the regional level, including on the islands of Praslin and La Digue. Through these initiatives, he aims to empower young people by sharing his experience, promoting positive values, and strengthening community engagement through sport.
President Herminie reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote youth development through sport, noting that athletes who achieve excellence on the national stage have a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation.
