Rianna Patterson, Queen’s Young Leader Award Recipient
This year’s theme is ‘Peyi Nou, Kado Nous’ which translates to ‘Our Country, Our Gift’. This theme allows us to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the path ahead for our island. Our gift is our potential, as Dominicans. Dominica has nurtured exceptional great activists, academics, agriculturists, entrepreneurs, artists like Shelly Alfred who is a graduate of Harvard University and has produced engaging bouyon compositions and already performed in several regions around the world, teachers and athletes like Ms. Thea LaFond who made history this year as Dominica’s first Gold Olympic medalist and Mr. Dennick Luke’s recent personal best at the Olympics. Their achievements filled Dominica with joy.
We do have people living with dementia on the island, and I have seen the emergence of multiple care homes to accommodate and support our older people. However, we’ve had some of the world’s oldest people, like Ma Pampo, who lived to be 126 years old. The Kalinago Territory celebrates numerous centenarians, exuding energy despite their age. Good living and good food produce resilience.
As the founder of the Dominica Dementia Foundation, I have represented Dominica and promoted the health and wellness initiatives that Dominica offers. I was also accepted into the Queens Young Leader Programme as the founder of the Dominica Dementia Foundation, the same programme that Permanent Secretary Hon. Lakeiya Joseph, who started her journey in politics at a young age, was part of. I was bestowed with the Queens Young Leader award by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Truly, the opportunities are bountiful.
Our island, known as the Nature Isle, is precious. It’s crucial to protect our environment and support the agriculture sector. Our education system promotes a diverse learning environment, integrating our culture. We are thriving in the educational sectors, with several scholars and honorary degree holders such as Historian Mr.Lennox Honeychurch. Attaining a degree in the Caribbean, Dominica offers a top-tier education influenced by our culture.
The arts and innovation are flourishing, with talents like filmmaker Michael Lees, Jenae Bell and other artists on the island. The love for our country and the support from our environment and village provide an invaluable opportunity for us to thrive. Dominica is a very special island and has a special place in our hearts.
We must continue to invest in the rich potential of our young people as it is an investment in Dominica’s future. The child next door should become a minister to our island one day or even a world leader at that. We are the workmanship of God, and I encourage Dominicans far and abroad to provide resources, time, network, and attention to the next generation of leaders.
To the young people of Dominica, never forget your roots and always embrace your potential. The future is in your hands. My granny always said to me that manners can get you to the Queen’s palace and now I am living through her wisdom and prayers. I recommend finding a mentor, building your network, volunteering, taking your education seriously, and striving for excellence in your field. Most importantly, always remember to centre your life around God. Trust in Him, and you will have everything you need, and more. Never forget that we are here to support each other. Together, we are stronger.
I eagerly anticipate the new developments in Dominica. Thank God for Dominica and God bless our people. Happy Independence to all
