Lady Williams Appears Alongside Melania Trump at “Fostering the Future Together” Summit

H.E. Lady Williams leads H.O.W Delegation to Inaugural “Fostering the Future Together” Summit

A powerful message of “Hope, Opportunity, and Well-being – H.O.W” echoed from Antigua and Barbuda to the global stage, as Her Excellency Lady Sandra Williams joined fellow spouses of Heads of State, Heads of Government and other international delegates at a landmark charitable summit hosted by First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump in Washington, D.C.

The inaugural “Fostering the Future Together” Coalition Summit, held from March 24 – 25, 2026, brought together educators, innovators and technology leaders to explore collaborative approaches to advancing child well-being through education, innovation, and the responsible use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics.

The delegation consisted of emerging youth leaders Elijah James (Tech Founder of The LocaL App & STEM Instructor) and Kamalie Mannix (Educator & Historian), who both played key roles in crafting a national program titled “H.O.W “ thatseeks to expand access to not only innovative, but inclusive technology-driven education beyond the traditional classroom. . Also present was Corporal Shane Williams (Personal Aide to Her Excellency).

The participation of both young men, Mr. James and Mr. Mannix, was made possible through the support of a private donor, and allowed them to  contribute meaningfully to dialogues on improving access to programs focused on coding, esports, virtual reality, entrepreneurship and other opportunities for disadvantaged youth across communities. “It was imperative for me that there were young people from Antigua and Barbuda present”, commented Lady Williams.  “Not only do they tend to be far ahead on the technological learning curve, but the safety of our universe is dependent upon their level of responsibility and empathy.The youth are an integral part of any project in which I become involved”.

Prior to attendance at the meeting, Her Excellency Lady Williams also held talks with Dr. E Jonah Greene, Deputy Director of Education; Dr. Mahasen Hadeed and Mrs. Feona Charles-Richards, Director of Family and Social Services of the Antigua and Barbuda Support and Referral Centre (SPARCC), to gain a deeper and more practical appreciation of the relevant issues affecting our islands in the areas of access and management of artificial intelligence for our youth.

Day one of the summit featured a high-level working session and fireside chat focused on four priority areas: EdTech tools, artificial intelligence in education, online safety and protection, and digital literacy. A technology expo also allowed delegates to engage directly with leading global companies including Microsoft, Google, Meta, Zoom Starlink and many others – highlighting how access to emerging technologies could unlock opportunities for youth worldwide.

During the high-level engagements on day two, Lady Williams commended First Lady Trump’s leadership through her  charitable “Be Best” initiative and highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s existing efforts in youth development and digital education. She further expressed readiness to support and advance “Be Best” through strategic partnerships that enable access to sustainable funding and scalable programs for vulnerable youth.

 Lady Williams encouraged First Lady Trump to continue the initiative , and to reach out to all nations — inclusive of Antigua and Barbuda — to experience the work of “H.O.W” first-hand, an invitation that was warmly welcomed, while underscoring  our  nation’s commitment to collaboration and shared progress.

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