Julian Willock and Kishma P. Forbes Donate to Ebenezer Thomas Primary School in Sea Cows Bay

From left: Kishma P. Forbes, Julian Willock, Principal Ashkisha N. Maduro, Ms Rhondella Guishard, Sandra L. Grisham, and Leroy James Jr at the presentation at Ebenezer Thomas Primary School on Monday, September 18, 2023. Photo: Provided

Former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Julian Willock, and Kishma P. Forbes from the Virgin Islands School and Office Supplies have come together to make a significant contribution to the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School in Sea Cows Bay.

The donation, valued at over $1000, includes a range of items that will greatly benefit the school and its students.

Among the items donated are power fans, a glue gun with glue sticks, a laminating machine, and a variety of snacks.

Recognizing the limitations of the government, Willock and Forbes decided to partner with the private sector to make this generous donation possible. The sponsors who supported their efforts include Smith Gore-BVI Real Estate, Skelton Group of Companies, and Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina.

Both Willock and Forbes are alumni of the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, making their contribution even more meaningful. During the donation event, Willock expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support received by the school, particularly acknowledging the efforts of 3rd District Representative, Hon. Julian Fraser RA.

Ms. Sandra L. Grisham, the Director of Business Development for Scrub Island, also addressed the students during the event. She emphasized the importance of education and encouraged the students to stay focused on their studies. Grisham commended the students on their impressive assembly and even expressed the possibility of one of them taking her job in the future.

Principal Ashkisha N. Maduro of Ebenezer Thomas Primary School expressed her excitement about the partnership and extended her heartfelt gratitude to Willock, Forbes, and the corporate partners for their support. She highlighted the positive impact this donation will have on the school and its students.

This recent donation follows a back-to-school giveaway organized by Willock and Forbes in August 2023, benefiting over 130 students in District Three. During that event, Willock promised the principal that they would continue to support the school.

In addition to their generous donations, Willock issued a challenge to the school to participate in the District Three festival troupe for the 2024, 70th anniversary of the Emancipation celebrations. He expressed his desire to see both children and adults from District Three come together to form the troupe and celebrate this significant milestone.

Willock also announced plans for a job fair and a food pantry in District Three. He hopes to collaborate with District Three Representative, Hon. Fraser, and has already reached out to him via a letter to discuss the implementation of these initiatives.

Former Speaker of the House of Assembly Julian Willock, right, gives remarks. Left is ETPS Principal Ashkisha N. Maduro. Photo: Provided