Noel Thompson, Freelance Writer
Recipients of the prestigious Governor-General's Achievement Award pose in the company of Governor-General, Professor Kenneth Hall (third left) and his wife Mrs. Rheima Hall, at a ceremony held at the Runaway Bay HEART Academy, St. Ann, on Wednesday. From left are Rev. Owen Gordon, Jeff McKitty, Calvin Powell, Pixley Irons and Edith Thomas. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer
WESTERN BUREAU:
It was a day when humble deeds were exalted. Deeds, that even in their simplicity served to move a country forward.
For the 15th consecutive year, Jamaicans from modest beginnings have had the privilege of being officially recognised by the Governor-General for their selfless service to their communities.
On Wednesday, five persons residing across the county of Middlesex were presented with their awards at the Governor-General's Achievement Awards (GGAA) ceremony at the Runaway Bay HEART Academy in St. Ann.
The awardees were: Edith May Thomas, an educator for over 38 years who represented the parish of Clarendon; Rev. Owen Gordon, a pastor, Justice of the Peace and social worker from Manchester; Calvin Powell, businessman and founder of Zion Roots of St. Catherine; Jeffrey McKitty, general manager of Beaches Boscobel and 35-year veteran of the hospitality industry, representing St. Mary, and Pixley Irons, a Justice of the Peace and businessman, representing the parish of St. Ann.
Governor-General, Professor Kenneth Hall in his greetings, said he felt a sense of immense pleasure to laud those who had made worthwhile contributions.
"This country's history records the significant contributions made by many people who volunteered their time and abilities to take this country forward," he said.
Pivotal Role
"This award scheme has played a pivotal role in recognising and encouraging this spirit of volunteerism and excellence in our country."
Professor Hall also lauded his predecessors for having set the platform.
Responding on behalf of the awardees, Mr. Irons said they were thankful that they were recognised as worthy recipients of such a prestigious award.
"We assure you that with the help of Almighty God, we will continue to play our part as good citizens of Jamaica and will be true to ourselves, our fellowmen and our Lord," Mr. Irons commented.
And for the first time, at the same ceremony, 10 youths were presented with awards at the Governor-General's Youth Award for Excellence Scheme. Two recipients were chosen from the parishes of Clarendon, Manchester, St. Catherine, St. Mary and St. Ann, respectively.
They are Clayton McCallah, Renée Miller, Angelique Davidson, Bryan Wallace, Shannon Gobourne, Kirk Abrahams, Shakera Blake, Ryan Bryan, Cienna Smith and Jennifer Brown-Cunningham.
The Governor-General's Youth Award for Excellence recognises Jamaican individuals between the ages of 25 and 35 who have made an invaluable contribution to their communities.
The GGAA identifies 14 persons from each parish who, from modest social and economic circumstances, uplifted themselves and have shown substantial improvements in different spheres of life. Recipients of the GGAA must have never received a national award and must be actively involved in community activities.
The Gleaner Company Limited, Jamaica National Building Society, the Victoria Mutual Building Society, Scotia Jamaica Building Society and FirstCaribbean International Building Society sponsor the GGAA.
