Like every other St. Lucian, I felt the pride of welcoming Julien ‘JuJu’ Alfred back on the island to receive her glory among her home people.
September 24, 2024, must remain etched on everyone’s mind at home and abroad as the achievements of Miss Alfred are the greatest form of uniting our people and our country and she should remain as the glue that makes us believe in ourselves.
She mentioned the frustration of pursuing her dreams and ambitions, the setbacks and the discouragement, and the raw reality of the lack of support, but despite all the obstacles and setbacks and lack of encouragement sometimes, she, as the appointed and anointed one, has delivered to the state the greatest gift of all.
In the past, many sons and daughters have left their mark, but hers, in today’s world, is the greatest of all achievements, so, may this be the reason that tomorrow’s children will find the strength and will to pursue their goals and ambitions regardless of obstacles.
So often we think that great things are achieved behind a desk and being in classrooms, but qualified in that does not make you a Master or Mistress of anything or everything.
More has been achieved by Julien winning these prestigious medals than ten years of visitor arrivals.
We need to develop from several angles – infrastructure, selective training, education on nutrition, giving opportunities when warranted, taking a more proactive attitude when dealing with social development and community goals, investment in roads, bridges, industrial stability, farming and food security in schools and community centres are all essential, but none more relevant than human development.
We must avoid wastage and constant destruction of what exists, learn to build and not destroy or discard and demolish without genuine replacement; we need to develop a new culture of inclusion; regardless or family background, social status or origin, as it relates to community or father or mothers’ name, all who need support must be given that chance to grow and ultimately succeed.
To God be the glory and may our people and country prosper.