A look back at our accomplishments this year.
Looking forward to our 60th anniversary in 2023.
The Award in Barbados is still reeling from the impact of a fire at the Brighton, St. Michael bond.
The cause of the fire, which occurred on November 16, 2022, is yet to be confirmed. However, several businesses who operated in the bond are still counting their losses, with one operator suggesting they had just restocked in preparation for Christmas sales.
In recent years, the Award would have used a loaned shipping container on the property to store its archives and older materials, and only recently would have stocked new equipment in preparation for upcoming projects. This equipment included backpacks, first aid kits and tents for its work with partner organizations, and furniture and disc golf equipment as part of the development of Culloden Farm, the proposed new home of the Award.
Unfortunately, most of this equipment is reported to be severely damaged due to the heat from the nearby blaze. According to Stephen Smith, Chair of the Award Council, the heat from a burning office space above, “turned our unit into an oven, incinerating almost everything inside.”
On December 3, after the all-clear was given, a salvaging effort was undertaken. Recoverable items were cleaned or re-boxed and moved to an alternative location for safekeeping.
A special thanks is given
on short notice. The contents of the container were not insured at the time of the blaze. Investigations into the cause and an appropriate resolution are ongoing…
With the recent holiday season came the return of the Annual Christmas Cheer event at Sheraton Mall. On December 4 2022, the mall opened its doors to residents of our island’s Children’s Homes for a day of fun, shopping and entertainment. Once again, Award Participants were on hand to assist with supervision of the children, ranging from ages 4 to 13.
This year’s Christmas Cheer was a bit different from previous occasions. In an odd twist, there were quite a few more groups volunteering this year. Additionally, the giftwrapping station was not featured, meaning that the number of volunteers required was significantly reduced.
Those who were able to participate had good things to say about the event, including some participants who very recently joined the programme.
According to Katisha: “It was fun! I would definitely do it again now knowing how it works…”
Shakita: “I’m not great dealing with children but I’m glad I got to do something out of my comfort zone. 8/10 experience!”
Long time participants of the event had somewhat mixed views. Rhenaka suggested that while it was a good event, there was some confusion at the beginning when names were being assigned. Kya indicated she was a bit disappointed as she looks forward to working with one child in particular who did not come to the event this year.
Despite it all, the event was a success. Karen Olivier, Marketing Coordinator for Sheraton Mall, noted: “There could have been a bit more done from our end, but in the end, there were no complaints. And the Duke of Edinburgh volunteers were perfect as always.”
We look forward to continuing the good work into the future.
Hosted by The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award - Romania, The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Forum 2022 was held in Cluj-Napoca, Romania from 10-15 October, 2022.
The Award Barbados was represented by three delegates during this event, which included a series of Plenary sessions, interactive workshops and field visits which gave delegates the opportunity to see the Award in action. The Forum provided a platform for discussion on advocacy and sustainability, partnerships and opportunities for growth, and sharing lessons and best practices in how the Award can help young people be ready for their world, whatever that might look like.
The Forum provided opportunity for NAOS to come together in regions to review progress, and working opportunities, and cover matters requiring regional input to be taken to the International Council
Several sessions took place where delegates were invited to contribute to the development of the new International strategy.
Five workshops were also held during Forum, which were structured to provide insight around critical business processes, Virtual Award Centres, partnership development, youth engagement and campaigns, and promoting action as well as discussion.
The Wrap-Up video summarizing the events of Forum can be found here.
Some 60 years ago, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, as it was then called, was introduced to Barbados. Since then, thousands of Participants have participated in the Award and gained success at the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels, and many of whom have gone on to make an impact on the local and international community.
Over that time, the Award has consistently evolved to meet the needs of the current generation, providing avenues for their personal development into well-rounded, civic-minded individuals, regardless of race, sex, class or background.
From #challengingyoungpeopleeverywhere, to making them #worldready and helping them #discoverinfinitepotential, the Award continues to play a role in developing young people.
As we continue the evolution of the Award, let us take this time to thank all those who contributed to making the Award what it is, giving their time, talents, or finances over the years. We look forward to continued successes in the future.
Have you ever wanted to learn how to sail? Are you in need of hours to complete your Skill or Physical Recreation Section? Well, now is your opportunity. Set Sail Barbados and the Award Alumni have partnered to host a 10 week Sailing program. The program commences on Tuesday January 24, 2023 at the Barbados Cruising Club.
Gather you Award team and have some fun while completing your Award. Do not miss out on this amazing opportunity. Be sure to apply early!
Click here to register your interest in taking part.
The annnual Amateur Golf event, organized by International Golf is back. Local players will compete for the opportunity to take part in the world finals at the Royal Household Golf Course in Windsor.
All funds raised during the event are directed to charities supporting young people, including the Award in Barbados.
Visit the Award website for updates on this event.
Sheraton Mall Sargeants Village Christ Church
Tel: 436-8754 Fax: 436-1630
office@theawardbarbados.com www.theawardbarbados.com @dofebarbados /deabarbadosaward
