One of the awardees
The Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, through its Social Protection Board, held its Annual Children Awards Ceremony yesterday (Tuesday July 21) at People’s Place, recognising the achievements of graduates from among the Board’s approximately 400 beneficiaries under the theme “Stars of Tomorrow.”
The ceremony was chaired by Director of the Youth Education and Empowerment Programme (YEEP) Dr. Troy Allen, and graduates ranging from five-year-old pre-schoolers to eighteen-year-old tertiary students filled the room, alongside their parents, guardians, teachers, and members of the Social Protection Board’s sponsor network.
In her opening remarks, Mary Baltimore, Operations Manager of the Social Protection Board, told the audience that the Board’s work goes well beyond its monthly stipend programme.
“Our commitment extends far beyond monetary assistance. We believe in supporting the whole child by focusing on education, personal growth, development, and overall well-being,” she said.
She thanked the Board’s staff and sponsors directly for what she called their “commitment, teamwork, and tireless effort” in making the day possible.
Guest speaker Senator Shaquan O’Neil shared a personal story of resilience with the graduates, encouraging them to draw strength from the community around them rather than face challenges alone.
“Use your story of where you came from to be better in life. Use your story to power your future,” he told students, adding that the road ahead would not always be easy but that self-belief and respect for others would carry them through it.
This year’s Valedictorian, Teeann John-Jules of the Irene B. Williams Secondary School, delivered the student address, reflecting on the discipline it took to reach graduation.
“There were late nights, tough subjects, and moments where I wanted to give up, but I kept pushing. I learned that showing up, staying organised, and asking for help makes all the difference,” she said, encouraging younger students still coming up through the system to stay focused and trust the process.
Minister of State within the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, the Honourable Kiz Johnson, delivered the feature address, telling graduates plainly that circumstance does not decide outcome.
“Your address does not define you. Your family’s income does not define you. The challenges you face do not define you,” she said, adding that character, determination, and kindness were what would carry each of them forward.
Minister Johnson urged graduates to “dream boldly” and to remember, once they succeed, to reach back and help someone else along the way.
Certificates and top student awards were presented across pre-school, primary, secondary, and tertiary categories, with dental certificates and gift cards contributed by sponsors including Family Dentistry, Pearl Dentistry, Ghanem Dental Center, Signs and Impressions, Harpers, Paper Clips, Business Systems and Supplies, and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
The Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation remains committed to strengthening the programmes that support vulnerable children and families across Antigua and Barbuda, guided by the Social Protection Board’s motto that no one should be left behind.
Congratulations to the young ones. It’s always important to recognize and celebrate others it motivates them to be and do better