A hundred of St Michael’s most dedicated residents have been celebrated for their extraordinary contributions to community life, as the curtain came down on the parish’s Pride of Barbados Awards at State House on Friday.
The ceremony, held at State House in two investitures of 50 individuals by President Sandra Mason, toasted a volunteer in the breast cancer fight, an organiser using sport to get young people off the streets, and a young teacher of inner-city children, among scores of others.
St Michael North West MP Neil Rowe praised the awardees for their commitment to community development, stressing the importance of their example.
“That is exactly what each and every community across our business needs — more community practitioners,” he said. “I hope that today will be a perfect example in the eyes of others so that they would walk in your footsteps and become the next awardees.”
Julene Kellman was recognised for her long-standing work in education and her contributions to the Olive Branch of Hope Foundation, where she supports individuals affected by breast cancer.
Kellman said she was “elated” to receive the award, adding that she hopes her work helps spread awareness and encourages others to share what they know.
“We hope that we can spread information and share with all those persons who have been affected and also to increase awareness,” she said. “The youth of today are very important to the productivity of Barbados…. I would encourage anybody to share what they have.”
Dean Squires was recognised for using sport as a tool for youth engagement in schools and communities. He said the award meant a great deal to him and the young people he mentors.
“This here speaks of the hard work being done for and with the young people of our nation,” Squires said. “Sometimes it looks like you’re not receiving any fruit from your labour, but even as we have with physical planting, you might not see what’s happening below the surface, but a lot is happening, and in due season, you will see the fruit coming forth, and then you can rejoice and give God some praise as you see God-given purpose being fulfilled.”
One of the youngest awardees, Calisa Wilson, received recognition for her role in educating young children in New Orleans and Chapman Lane.
“I feel a little bit excited because I’m one of the youngest persons who received an award today,” she said, encouraging other young people to persevere. “Don’t give up no matter what anyone tells you… I do it regardless of what people are saying or whether they can say or not.”
Member of Parliament for St Michael West Central, Ian Gooding-Edghill, commended the honourees for their dedication and the positive influence they continue to have across the parish.
“This is indeed a fitting tribute to all those persons who contribute immensely to the growth and development of the community,” he said. “I would like to encourage them to continue to give their very best as we continue to uplift community development in Barbados.”
The ceremony marked the conclusion of the parish’s Pride of Barbados Awards in the We Gatherin’ programme, ending with applause for those whose service continues to shape the social and developmental fabric of St Michael. (LE)
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