JCI Antigua successfully hosted the 2026 JCI Conference of the Americas in Antigua and Barbuda. Additionally, the event welcomed about 338 delegates from 40 countries.

The conference ran from May 13 to May 16, 2026. Furthermore, it brought together young leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals from across the Americas and the Caribbean.

Delegates attended leadership sessions, networking events and cultural activities throughout the four-day conference.

This year’s conference also marked a historic milestone for the region.

It was only the third time the Conference of the Americas was hosted in the West Indies. Moreover, the last regional hosting took place in 1987.

Importantly, Antigua and Barbuda hosted the event for the first time.

The conference welcomed JCI President Alejandra Castillo alongside senior JCI officials and board members.

Representatives also attended from Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Suriname and the United States.

Meanwhile, conference activities took place across several venues in Antigua and Barbuda.

Delegates stayed at Royalton Antigua, which hosted several conference events.

Training sessions and leadership workshops also took place at the The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus.

In addition, organizers held the closing ceremony at the American University of Antigua.

JCI Antigua secured hosting rights after a competitive international bidding process that started three years ago.

Conference Director Shenella Govia thanked sponsors, volunteers, partners and delegates for supporting the event.

She said the conference showed the vision, resilience and professionalism of Antigua and Barbuda.

Additionally, Govia said delegates praised the country’s hospitality and the quality of the conference programme.

Organizers expect the conference to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation for hosting major regional and international events.

The event also supported tourism, hospitality, transportation and local business activity.

Furthermore, the conference promoted youth leadership, civic engagement and regional collaboration across the Americas.