Basseterre, St. Kitts (May 6, 2004): Renamed and on the move, “Villagers in Action”(VIA) was officially launched yesterday evening.
Ms. Sherima Powell in giving some brief introductory remarks said that the new youth group “VIA” emerged from the organising committee of the 25th Anniversary Celebrations of the St. Johnston’s Preparatory School.
Mrs. Carol Williams said that she had observed the young people during the planning stages of the 25th Anniversary Celebrations of the St. Johnston’s Preparatory School and was impressed with their determination. She that this was one of the reasons why she was not surprised by the groups move toward a name-change. Mrs. Williams also expressed the expectation that “VIA” would become a household name in St. Johnston’s, since they had set the standard by the success of the activities that had been undertaken for the 25th Anniversary celebrations.
Ms. Elsie Mills who was the preschool teacher of the members of VIA, applauded the young people for demonstrating their bond by forming the group and giving something back to the community.
She said initially the group of young people were expected to become an alumni association following the 25th Anniversary celebrations, however to her delight they took it a step further. Teacher Elsie has high expectation of VIA, whose members she said had many good ideas that would benefit the community.
Jason Hamilton then proceeded to explain exactly why VIA saw it fit to return to the community. Speaking on behalf of VIA, he said that the members were a product of the Johnston’s community and individual success attained was a result of the environment in which they had been nurtured. He added that they felt an obligation to give back to persons in the community who may not have had the opportunities of members. As such, many of the planned activities includes social interaction and community development.
Honourable Sam Condor parliamentary representative for the area and Honourable Jacinth Henry-Martin in her capacity as Minister responsible for Youth both attended the ceremony, while the latter officially launched the group.
