The National Olympic Academy of Barbados (NOAB), the educational arm of The Barbados Olympic Association Inc., has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated 6th National Session for Young Olympic Ambassadors (NSYOA). Scheduled to run from Friday, August 28, to Sunday, August 30, 2026, this fully residential three-day session will take place at the Hilton Barbados Resort.
The session offers a premier opportunity for young sports advocates to network, engage with industry experts, and help shape the future of sport nationally.
Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
The NSYOA is open to young people aged 20 to 30 who are actively involved in sport—whether as administrators, athletes, coaches, or volunteers. The program is designed to cultivate leadership capacity, increase participants’ understanding of Olympic issues, and introduce participants to the core ideals of Olympism.
“This immersive session provides an ideal environment for learning, discussion, and networking among participants,” says Janelle Denny, Director of the National Olympic Academy. “It offers an invaluable opportunity for young people to engage in dialogue on issues of relevance in sport, in an interactive and dynamic environment. They will hear from experts on a variety of issues and will be able to examine and express their views and make recommendations for the development of sport.”
To qualify, candidates must demonstrate a genuine passion for sport, a desire to contribute to local and national sports development, and a strong commitment to continuing their involvement with the NOAB upon completing the programme.
Core Theme and Critical Discussions
This year’s session is built around a critical central theme and keynote focus: “Championing inclusion, integrity and responsibility: Building a safe and fair future for every athlete.”
Over the course of the intensive weekend, participants will engage in a dynamic format featuring guest presentations, panel discussions, physical activities, educational tours, and group projects, while exploring a range of contemporary issues in sport.
How to Apply
National Federations (NFs) can nominate eligible young leaders and forward their submissions to the NOAB. To promote gender equality in sports leadership, NFs are requested to nominate at least one male and one female candidate and provide a ranked order of preference.
Interested applicants must submit the following documents:
- A one-page motivational letter explaining their interest in attending NSYOA 2026 and detailing their sports involvement.
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A passport-sized photograph.
- A copy of their national ID card.
- A formal letter of support from their NF, verifying their involvement and supporting their participation in the programme.
The Road to Greece: Represent Barbados Internationally
The NSYOA also serves as the official training and selection ground for Barbadian representatives to attend the prestigious annual International Session for Young Olympic Ambassadors (YOA) in Greece.
Applicants wishing to be considered for the international session must indicate their interest during the application process and explain their motivation. The selection process for YOA involves:
- Video Submission: Submit a short three- to five-minute video prior to the NSYOA 2026
- Shortlisting: A maximum of six participants (three males and three females) will be shortlisted to deliver formal presentations on Day 3 of the NSYOA related to the main session theme.
- Final Recommendation: Up to two outstanding ambassadors (one male and/or one female) will be selected and recommended to attend a future YOA Session in Greece.
Submission Deadline
The absolute deadline for all application submissions is Tuesday, August 11, 2026.
All documents must be emailed to Janelle Denny, Director of the NOAB, at janelle.denny@olympic.org.bb and copied to Ida Elms-Edghill, Programme Officer, NOAB, at ida.elms-edghill@olympic.org.bb.