REGENCY NEWS
Regency Assurance is delighted to share the success story of the Kick Start Program, a transformative youth development initiative that harnessed the power of sport to inspire and equip the next generation. This program demonstrates the positive impact that Regency’s partnership with the Department of Youth in Nevis and remarkable young community leaders can have in creating meaningful opportunities for young people.
The program’s creator, Mr. Aljay Newton, received the Youth Impact Award for Youth Development, a recognition that reflects his long-standing service to young people through sport. His award-winning community leadership later contributed to his appointment as Director of Sports in the Nevis Island Administration.
Designed and led by Mr. Newton, the Kick Start Program brought together licensed football instructors and expert facilitators to combine structured coaching with essential life skills training for boys aged 12 to 16 from villages across the island. Participants received guidance in areas such as financial literacy, communication, problem-solving, and information technology, equipping them with practical tools to succeed both on and off the field.
The program aimed to build young people’s confidence, helping them present themselves more effectively during football team selection processes and increasing their opportunities for advancement into national programs. This holistic approach supported sporting success while also laying the groundwork for personal growth, resilience, and active community participation.
Sessions were held three evenings a week, creating a positive and structured environment where young people could develop new skills, build confidence, and forge strong connections. Working alongside local government agencies, schools, and community leaders, the program ensured strong community involvement in recruiting participants.
This initiative also reflects Regency’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment and alignment with the principles of the United Nations Global Compact, which emphasise opportunity, inclusion, and community wellbeing.
Kate Tebbet, Head of Community Engagement at Regency Assurance, reflected:
"The Kick Start program has shown the incredible potential of sport to change lives. By supporting this initiative, we were part of a program that helped young people discover their strengths, gain valuable skills, and access opportunities that will benefit them for years to come. Mr Newton's leadership and commitment has been truly inspiring."
Through the Kick Start program, Regency advanced its CSR mission while contributing to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health and Well-being, Quality Education and Reduced Inequalities. The program has inspired a new generation of young people to aim high and create bright futures for themselves and their communities.