WINDREF Research Scientist Presents Reach Within Project at the 2024 UNESCO Youth Delegate Meeting

Dominique Assing, a 2023 UNESCO Youth Delegate representing the Latin American and Caribbean region with a focus on Grenada, is currently pursuing her MD degree at St. George’s University while serving as a research scientist with the Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF). In recognition of her impactful work, Ms. Assing was invited to present her experiences at the UNESCO 2024 Youth Delegate meeting. Her presentation showcased her year-long efforts, including her involvement with Reach Within, a Grenadian charity and project of WINDREF that promotes health equity for children and youth in low-resource settings.

During her talk, Ms. Assing shared her first-hand experiences in delivering psycho-social first aid to children and youth in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which struck Petite Martinique and Carriacou on July 1, 2024, as a Category 4 storm. The hurricane caused widespread destruction, decimating over 98% of physical structures and displacing hundreds of families. Although the loss of life was minimal, the emotional and psychological toll was profound, as communities grappled with the loss of homes, schools, and livelihoods. Reach Within/WINDREF responded swiftly, arriving on the ground within days to provide critical support. Their innovative, low-cost, high-impact programs have played a vital role in addressing acute trauma, alleviating symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and empowering communities to navigate the challenges of living in high climate-risk areas.

In her presentation, Ms. Assing underscored the alignment between Reach Within’s initiatives and the UNESCO Youth Forum’s global recommendations, including the integration of climate education at all levels, effective youth engagement in decision-making, strengthening lifelong learning, and fostering intergenerational collaboration. This platform provided a unique opportunity to spotlight Reach Within/WINDREF’s work on a global stage, inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Reach Within congratulates Ms. Assing on her outstanding presentation and her remarkable achievements as a UNESCO Youth Delegate.

Reach Within and WINDREF staff and volunteers working alongside children, youth and community of Petite Martinique and Carriacou.