Education
Deputy Premier Presents Laptops to Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School’s Class of 2024
Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, the Hon. Lorna Smith, OBE, presented fifteen laptop computers to Ms. Akima Powell, principal of Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School (ROMPS), marking a significant contribution to the graduating class of 2024.
The laptops were donated by David and Pamela Johnson of Oil Nut Bay (ONB) through the North Sound Foundation (NSF), a symbol of their ongoing commitment to the educational advancement of the students at ROMPS.
This donation is the latest in a series of contributions by ONB, which has supported the school for over a decade. The partnership began with the rebuilding efforts led by NSF following the devastating impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused extensive damage to the school.
The donation is part of a sustained effort to enhance the educational environment at ROMPS, providing resources and facilities that ensure a conducive learning space. The new laptops are expected to play a crucial role in the students’ academic development, equipping them with the tools necessary for research and study as they transition to high school. This technological boost is seen as vital for preparing the students to meet future challenges.
Ms. Akima Powell, accepting the laptops on behalf of the school, assured Deputy Premier Honourable Lorna Smith that the devices would be presented to the students at their upcoming Exit Dinner on July 4th. This event marks a significant milestone in their educational journey and the laptops will undoubtedly serve as valuable assets in their continued academic pursuits.
Hon Lorna Smith, a fervent advocate for the welfare of children and youth, underscored the importance of digital access in modern education. In her role as Minister responsible for digital transformation, she highlighted the necessity for every household and child in the Virgin Islands to have access to computers and the internet. She stressed that such access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for effective learning and participation in a digitally connected world.
In her address, Hon. Lorna Smith extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School Class of 2024. She expressed her best wishes for their continued success as they embark on the next chapter of their educational journey, confident that these laptops will serve as invaluable tools in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.
BVIslander J’Sally O’Niel was officially called to practice as a member of the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in the Territory of the Virgin Islands on Monday, January 13. The ceremony, held before the Honourable Justice Stanley John K.C., saw J’Sally presented to the court by Associate Aaron Mayers.
J’Sally, who began her pupillage at Conyers’ BVI office in September 2024, has quickly gained recognition for her professionalism. Mark Forte, Partner and Head of BVI Litigation & Restructuring at Conyers, commended her work ethic, noting, “J’Sally has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic, and we look forward to seeing her thrive in her legal career.”
J’Sally earned her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom and was called to the Bar of England and Wales by the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn in October 2024.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation has enriched the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School with a collection of books spotlighting the Virgin Islands’ rich history, heritage, and culture.
The donation, presented by Abigail O’Neal, Executive Director of the Foundation, comes as part of the organization’s commitment to preserving the region’s cultural legacy while fostering a love for reading.
“Every school year, my father would donate books by local and other authors to schools throughout the Territory,” said O’Neal. “It’s my humble pleasure to carry on this tradition as part of the Foundation’s work.”
During her visit to the school, O’Neal found herself inspired by the students’ palpable enthusiasm for learning. One student proudly shared that he was juggling three books at once, a testament to the school’s nurturing environment and the students’ thirst for knowledge.
“It is so important that our children develop a love for the written word in all forms. Reading not only educates but expands one’s vision and transports readers to different worlds,” O’Neal emphasized.
The donation includes several rare and out-of-print titles, aligning with the Foundation’s mission to reintroduce pivotal historical works to the Virgin Islands community. These books, O’Neal explained, are vital for preserving the wisdom and lessons of the past.
Engaging with the students, she encouraged discussions about the significance of history. The students’ collective response — “Because those lessons can help us inform the future” — underscored the lasting impact of such initiatives.
O’Neal also commended the efforts of Ms. Powell and her teaching staff for creating an environment that fosters academic curiosity and excellence. She extended her gratitude to Victor International and the Johnson Family for their continued support of education in Virgin Gorda.
For more information, please contact: Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation
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