Governor General's achievement awards
published:
Monday | August 11, 2008
Gavin Powell, youth recipient for Manchester, thanks Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall who commended him for exercising his civic duties to his community. - photos by Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer
On July 30, 15 Jamaicans were presented with the Governor General's Achievement Award for the county of Middlesex. In the coming days, The Gleaner will highlight the recipients of the award, beginning with the parish of Manchester.
GAVIN POWELL
Jamaica's leadership crisis may, in the future, be answered by Gavin Powell, a dynamic, zealous, dedicated leader who has received the youth award for his impact on the lives of many young people in North East Manchester. Powell's concerted civic duties have established positive results, defined by improvement in the community and measured by performance.
Powell told The Gleaner the recognition from his peers and community was comforting. He said the award would revitalise his work ethic, pushing him to continue working towards the general development of the community.
Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in linguistics and international relations at the University of the West Indies, this 23-year-old is focused on empowering people. He said he hoped to do this through various community initiatives, such as the Pike Homework Club that supports students. Currently, president of the Parish Youth Council and vice-president of the North Manchester Youth and Sports Council, Powell has equipped himself with the skills and developed qualities of leadership.
"Voluntary services and exercising my leadership qualities act as a motivation for me. I'm not really an academic person, but I'm for community development and know the importance of my academic pursuit, so I have no choice but to perform," he said. "But I get great joy out of community service."
The mammoth contribution to youth advocacy has not gone unnoticed, as his sterling commitment to the community previously garnered him recognition when he received the DeCarteret College Citizens Award in 2004.
JASON DONAVAN STEPHEN HENRY
Youth recipient for Manchester Jason Henry collects his plaque from the Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall during the Governor General's Achievement Awards ceremony at Kendal Camp Conference Centre on July 30.
Self-confidence and a strong faith in God steered Jason Donavan Stephen Henry, among other golden attributes, to reap the Governor General's Achievement Award. Henry collected the prestigious youth award for his confident manner and ambition.
His personal quest for consistent self-improvement won him admiration from his peers and others in his community.
Throughout Henry's accomplishments, the one constant in his life has been his love for God and his teachings. His exemplary lifestyle has been a beacon of hope for many, as he assumed the role of nurturer for other young people in his community.
As former youth fellowship spiritual coordinator, and vice chairman of the youth committee at Andrew's Memorial United Church, Henry used his kind spirit and youth experience to fortify others. A keen sportsman, he served as youth counsellor for the United Church's National Sports Day in 2007 and 2008.
Henry earned his Bachelor of Science degree in computer studies and information technology, graduating with honours. His future career plans include working in information technology, software engineering or mine engineering; however, he assured The Gleaner that he would complement these goals with continued work in the youth ministry.
"It's an honour. I'm very proud and feel privileged to be selected along with my fellow awardees," he said. "That's my passion, guiding people to their destined purpose by God here on Earth."
LORRAINE RICKETTS
Lorna Ricketts, senior recipient for Manchester, poses with Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall at the Governor General's Achievement Awards ceremony.
Manchester senior recipient Lorraine Ricketts began her illustrious career in education administration more than 40 years ago. The journey, which began at the Anchovy Elementary School she attended as a young girl, became the foundation for her career. Rickets contributed three years there as a junior teacher, before honing her teaching skills at Shortwood Teachers' College.
While she earned her teaching certification, this active athlete also earned a distinction in physical education, for which she received the Enos Nuttal Award for Overall performance.
Channelling her way through a series of leadership and administrative roles at institutions such as the Ministry of Education and the Jamaica Teacher's Association, Ricketts championed academic excellence, proving that an investment in education can lead to profitable futures.
Her stint at Porus Primary School, Manchester, where she served 38 years in various capacities as a teacher, senior teacher and acting vice-principal, before assuming the role of principal for 18 years. During her tenure, she developed the school's mottos, 'Together We Serve' and 'Only The Best is Good Enough', which provided a stimulus for achievement among academic staff and students.
Ricketts facilitated a windfall of victories in sports, the performing arts, national spelling bee competitions and boosted the schools attendance by 95 per cent.
Also under her watch, the school's favourability increased, leading to a 20 per cent increase in enrolment at the institution. She said that the award recognition was humbling and marked her efforts as an educator.
"Indeed, I think what has allowed me this honour is my dedication to my duties," she said.
