Nahjah Wyatte Muñoz Wins 2026 President of Parliament Award

GREAT BAY--Fourteen-year-old athlete Nahjah Wyatte Muñoz, who made history as St. Maarten’s first CARIFTA Games gold medalist earlier this year, has been named the recipient of the 14th Annual President of Parliament Award.

President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams presented the award during a reception on Tuesday, September 8, marking the opening of the 2026-2027 Parliamentary Year. Parliament received a record 20 nominations for this year’s award.

The President of Parliament Award is presented annually to a young person in the St. Maarten community in recognition of exemplary behavior, leadership and meaningful contributions to the community.

Muñoz was selected from five finalists representing achievements across athletics, academics, writing, dance, community service and public service. The other top nominees were Mai-Angel Martis, Arianna Khemchandani, Ingemar Arndell and Sara Bharwani.

Parliament said the five young people, despite their different backgrounds and accomplishments, share a commitment to making a positive contribution to St. Maarten.

Muñoz received the award for his contributions to the community and his dedication, perseverance and commitment to athletics.

At just 14 years old, he has already made St. Maarten sporting history twice in two years.

In 2025, Muñoz became St. Maarten’s first-ever gold medalist at the NACAC Age Group Championships. He followed that achievement in April 2026 by becoming the country’s first CARIFTA Games gold medalist, winning the boys’ Under-17 800-meter event in a personal-best time of 1 minute, 53.26 seconds.

Muñoz attended Tuesday’s reception accompanied by his mother and twin brother and accepted the award from Wescot-Williams. Parliament said he expressed his gratitude for being selected as this year’s recipient.

He was nominated for the award by Naomi Korstanje of the St. Maarten Sports Federation.

Parliament encouraged young people across St. Maarten to continue setting strong examples of leadership and to contribute actively to the development of the island and its people.

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