Outstanding achievers get Governor General's Achievement Award

Ten outstanding achievers drawn from the four parishes in the county of Surrey were recipients of the prestigious Governor General's Achievement Award at a special function held at the College of Agriculture Science and Education (CASE) in Portland, over the weekend.

The recipients, who were awarded on the basis of the academic achievement, prowess, along with their invaluable contribution to community development and nation building, were selected from the parishes of St Andrew, Kingston, St Thomas, and Portland.

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen boasted about the impact that those determined to go beyond the call of duty to assist community residents have had in the lives of the less fortunate, who are being provided with a glimmer of hope.

"There are challenges that we encounter every day," Allen commented.

He continued "Nevertheless, there are those of us, who despite achieving academic success and wealth, have donated time and effort in assisting others through goodwill and a kind gesture. This country is in good hands, and today, we salute you all with open arms - knowing that you will not relent in your efforts to make a difference in the lives of many."

Specially invited guests to the function, who were dressed for the formal setting, were feted with scrumptious meals, including baked chicken, fish fillet, potato salad, rice and peas, pudding, cake, and ice cream.

Stephen Price, managing director of telecommunications giant FLOW, spoke about the need for continuity so as to ensure that the positive impact that the current recipients have had on the varied communities will be replicated for years to come.

'Be a change-maker regardless'

"Anyone of us can be a change-maker regardless of age, social background, or level of education," said Stephen Price.

He added, "Each of us must actively commit to being an agent of change. It has to be a personal decision to which we must hold ourselves accountable. Cooperate entities also have a role to play in strengthening the social fabric of our society. Our mission at FLOW Jamaica speaks to connecting communities and transforming lives. Sponsorship of this achievement awards is therefore, a natural progression."

The recipients from St Andrew are: Keenan Joseph Falconer; Grace-Ann Olivia Collins-Thomas and Glenroy James Messam; from Kingston are: Kabrina Samantha Martin and Donnette Alicia Wright; from St Thomas are: Monique Kereece Blake and Dr Emerson Paul Henry; and from Portland are Prince Anthony Hartley; Shavar Orland Bailey, and Edith Rose Bailey.