Mr. Shawn Kenneth Richards, born on December 8, 1972, in St. Kitts, embodies a spirit of unwavering dedication and exceptional achievement. His journey of excellence began with stellar academic accomplishments, culminating in a rich and impactful career trajectory.
A distinguished leader, Mr. Richards served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture from 2015 to 2020. His tenure was marked by visionary initiatives that propelled national development and enriched the lives of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Mr. Richard’s educational odyssey reflects his thirst for knowledge and expertise. He holds a BA in Business Administration with a specialization in Management from Cleveland State University and the University of the Virgin Islands. His pursuit of excellence continued with a Master of Accountancy and Financial Information Systems, further solidifying his financial acumen.
In 2002, his dedication led to his becoming a Certified Public Accountant in Ohio, a testament to his commitment to professional excellence. In 2024, he achieved the pinnacle of academic success with a PhD in Creative Leadership for Innovation and Change from the University of the Virgin Islands, complemented by a graduate certificate in creative problem-solving from Buffalo State University.
Mr. Richard’s professional journey is a tapestry of diverse roles, from serving as an Auditor at TDC Internal Audit Office to holding pivotal positions such as Board Secretary at TDC Tours, Accountant at TDC Airline Services Ltd and TDC Tours, and Credit Manager at Courts St. Kitts. His tenure as Auditor of the Government of St. Kitts-Nevis showcased his meticulousness and integrity in financial matters, earning him respect and trust across sectors.
In 2004, Mr. Richards embarked on a journey in competitive politics, winning his seat (Constituency No. 5) and commencing a transformative era in governance. His leadership roles expanded as he assumed the mantle of Political Leader of the Peoples Action Movement (PAM) from 2012 to 2024, guiding the party with wisdom and foresight.
Mr. Richard’s impact extends beyond national boundaries, as evidenced by his chairing of the CARICOM Human Resource Development Strategy 2030 committee and leadership in the Council of Human and Social Development (COHSOD) for Education within CARICOM. His service on the Public Accounts Committee and chairing of critical national committees like the National Disaster Mitigation Council and National Independence Committee reflect his commitment to effective governance and public service.
He now serves, COSCU as the Regional Advisory Board Member for The Americas, bringing his wealth of experience, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication to the forefront of educational diplomacy and policy-making. His role as a transformative leader continues, inspiring change and progress on a global scale.