Sir Arthur Lewis Community College is proud to have facilitated the book launch of one of its alumni, Jayde Thomas. Thomas, a former SALCC Architectural Technology student, adds to St. Lucia’s ever-growing literary scene with his debut poetry collection, “The Heart’s Mind.”
“This book is a journey through different emotions, feelings, events, not only in my life but in the lives of those around me,” said Thomas, a resident of Massacre, Anse La Raye.
The book contains over 30 poems written by Thomas across the span of two years. Thomas said that the poems are relatable yet diverse, varying in length, subject and emotion. During the launch at the Derek Walcott Library, located on the SALCC campus, he expressed gratitude to his family and friends for their support throughout his journey. He also thanked SALCC for its role in his literary development. While studying at SALCC (2021-2023), he displayed his love of poetry by participating in the Library’s WORRRD UP Poetry Slam. In 2023, he secured second place in that competition.
“Jayde has been an active and engaged member of our SALCC community, and we are quite happy that our library and College was able to nurture his poetic and literary journey,” said Milissa Emmanuel, Assistant Librarian of the SALCC Hunter J. Francois Library.
Cletus Springer, Chairman of the SALCC Board of Directors, applauded Thomas’ efforts. Springer, who is also a published author, encouraged other members of the SALCC community to follow Thomas’ example.
“I want to encourage all students of Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, as well as staff, to write. There is a lot to write about…Jayde has given us the best possible example.”
The book can be purchased on Amazon or through contacting the author directly.
For more information about “The Heart’s Mind” and Jayde Thomas, please contact the author on Instagram at @jayo_thom.