AWARD PARTICIPANTS PROUDLY REPRESENTING BARBADOS

On June 10th, 2021, the global Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award community came together to celebrate its founder, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and to launch the Challenge 100 campaign.

Two of our Barbadian dukers, Makaila Lucas and Aniela O’Neil not only watched the celebration, but also took part in the various activities. Makaila was a member of the virtual choir, and during an interview related to her experience, she stated that: “I was super excited to see myself on the international stage, for a moment I couldn’t believe that it was actually happening” .

Makaila Lucas (bottom left) was a member of the virtual choir.

Looking back at the preparation stage, Makaila recalled that the song she was asked to sing was one that she was unfamiliar with. Therefore, in addition to getting her equipment sorted to record her part, she also had to learn the song. She also noted that participants were free to wear something that represented their culture, themselves, or their award centre.

Later in the programme Aniela participated in the “Knowing Me, Knowing Duke” segment of the celebration. After doing a bit in-depth research and reviewing facts about the award, Aniela participated in the quiz. During the quiz she gained more knowledge about the Award whilst enjoying the activity.

Aniela O'Neil (bottom left) represented Barbados during the virtual Global Celebration on June 10, 2021.

While both dukers thoroughly enjoyed this experience, Aniela stated that she not only found it very educational but that it opened her eyes to the opportunities available through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Additionally, Aniela learnt that His Royal Highness had a passion for conservation and his legacy was passed on as a lot of participants have taken up conservation work.

In the final moments of the celebration the Challenge 100 campaign was announced, and both Makaila and Aniela have started their challenges. As Makaila does not like to read much, she chose to challenge herself to do 100 hours of reading. On the other hand, Aniela, a passionate flute player, chose to pursue her passion and learn to play 100 songs on the flute.

To those who missed the virtual celebration that both Makaila and Aniela described as “enjoyable” , a video of it can be found on the Award’s page at: www.theawardbarbados.com/news-events.