Halo Foundation July - December 2019 Newsletter

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FRIENDS OF HALO IN ACTION
Friends of Halo volunteered at the Light the Night
Event in Downtown Halifax (Nova Scotia, Canada) late
last year. This is an annual event that raises awareness
of cancer, celebrates cancer survivors, and honours those
who have suffered from cancer in the past. The Friends
of Halo Society provided information and education on
the disease, and took part in an awareness walk.

YOUTH AT WORK
Social Media Seminar
The Social Media Seminar conducted by Insight2Marketing
at Government House during the summer was sponsored and
hosted by Halo Generation Y. The theme was “Building an
online community through marketing and branding”, and
the event was well attended and favorably received.
Big Sisters
One of Halo Generation Y’s teams of Big Sisters spent
a Saturday with the residents of the Sunshine Home for
Girls in Johnson’s Point. The girls were treated to snacks,
mentoring and camaraderie. The Big Sisters team
comprises L-R Shanna Challenger, Charrelle Browne,
Adia Duberry and Chinoir Ijeh.
Fellowship Education Camp
The Halo Foundation presented a cheque for $1400 to Mrs.
Judy John-Edwards, President of the Girls’ Brigade Island
Council, to assist with the cost of attending the Caribbean
and America’s Fellowship Education Camp in Trinidad and
Tobago. This retreat provides key skills and life training for
young girls.
Back to School Donation
Halo’s Generation Y donated books, bags and other school
supplies to two young girls in September 2019 as a part of
their mission to assist the youth in our society.
Soup Kitchen
Halo sponsored a day at the soup kitchen, located near the
public market in St. John’s. The kitchen was set up to assist
those in need of a meal.
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H.E. LADY WILLIAMS SPEAKS
ON LIFE VALUES, LEADERSHIP
AND THE WORK OF
THE HALO FOUNDATION TO
the NGO
Whisperer
magazine
“This is… a team effort that includes all of our
sponsors, donors, volunteers and beneficiaries.”
The July to September issue of the NGO Whisperer
magazine, which highlights charitable causes from
around the world, featured an interview with H.E. Lady
Williams. In 2019, Lady Williams received an honorary
Doctor of Civil Law from St. Mary’s University in Nova
Scotia, Canada. She was also one of the recipients
of the “Unsung Heroes” awards held in Toronto,
Canada for her work with the Halo Foundation since
its inception in 2014.
In this issue, Her Excellency responds to several
questions, including what she would consider to be
“the most important technical and soft skills that [she]
would advise people aspiring to be global leaders
to learn”. She says: “I believe that everyone has an
important role to play in life. Based on my [training] in
the arts and sciences, I believe that the ability to [both]
create and analyze a situation is equally important.
Creativity gives birth to innovation, entrepreneurship
and problem solving. Likewise, the ability to apply
critical and quantitative thinking provides one with
the foundation upon which creativity can thrive. For
me, the most important soft skill is listening because
it leads to understanding and compassionate action”.
If you would like to receive a complimentary copy
of this magazine which includes the entire interview,
please email:contact@foundationhalo.org
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THE CAUSES WE SERVE
JCI Donation
In keeping with its commitment to assist with the development
of youth in Antigua & Barbuda, Halo donated $5000 to JCI
(Junior Chambers International). In a brief handover
at Government House, President of Halo Generation Y Brent
Scotland presented the cheque to Shaenel Charles, Co-Chair
of the JCI YEP Awards Committee and Samara Emmanuel, JCI
Member.
Barbuda Sailing Camp
Cuthbert Forbes of the Halo Foundation presented a
cheque for $11,000 to Elizabeth Jordan, Founder of the
National Sailing Academy (NSA) in English Harbour. The
beneficiaries of this donation are the children of Barbuda,
who attended sailing summer camp for two weeks. The
Halo Foundation partnered with SailAid UK on this project,
and skills in basic dinghy sailing and safety practices were
imparted by the instructors.
Go Girls!
The Halo Foundation was for yet another year, a major
sponsor of Camp Go Girls hosted by Women of Esteem.
The camp, which is run each year during the summer, aims
to positively impact young women through mentorship,
life skills training and network/communication. (Photo L-R
Princess Lee – Halo, Nikki Phoenix – President, Women of
Esteem and Jahmesha Daniel – Halo.)
Patronage of Rotary Club of
Antigua
Governor General, H.E. Sir Rodney Williams met with Rotary
District Governor and other Rotary officials at Government
House, to discuss the organization’s plans for 2020. Halo also
made a donation to Colours, the Rotary’s annual fundraiser.
(Photo L-R: Vanetta Rogers, President of the Rotary Club
of Antigua; Kevin Jackman, President of the Rotary Club of
Antigua Sundown; Trevor Blake, Rotary District Governor
and Sharon Cordner, Assistant District Governor).
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THE CAUSES WE SERVE
Halo donates to ABYSO
A donation of $5000 was made by H.E. Lady Williams, on behalf
of Halo, to the Antigua & Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra
(ABYSO) representative, Camelia Thomas. The funds were in
support of an ABYSO concert, in partnership with the Purcell
School, the Royal Overseas League and Wells Cathedral School,
all out of the United Kingdom.
JCI YEP Awards
At the JCI YEP (Youth Empowerment Program) Awards
which took place in mid-October at the Sir Vivian Richards
Stadium, the Sir Rodney and Lady Williams Youth
Humanitarian Award was presented by Generation Y
President, Brent Scotland to JCI recipient Mikhail Simmons
for kindness and dedicated service to the community.
Support for Renal Society
H.E. Sir Rodney Williams handed over a cheque for $500
from the Halo Foundation to Past President of the Antigua
& Barbuda Renal Society, Mrs. Constance Moe. This was
a gesture in support of the Society’s luncheon held at
Turner’s Beach, in order to raise funds to assist with renal
dialysis and renal transplants at the Mount St.John’s
Medical Centre.
Thank you for the music
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Ms. Ka Youn Yoo, a musical prodigy from the United
Kingdom, presented her beautifully composed “Fanfare
for Antigua: Dedicated to Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and
Lady Williams” at a recital and reception at Government
House in July 2019. The visiting delegation was spearheaded
by H.E. Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner to the United
Kingdom and Ms. Alison Cox, Founder and Chair of the
Trustees of the Commonwealth Resounds. (Photo front row
L-R: H.E. Karen-Mae Hill, H.E. Lady Williams, H.E. Sir Rodney
Williams and Hon. Daryll Matthew, Minister of Sports, culture,
National Festivals and the Arts.)

EDUCATION IN LIVING COLOUR
A FEW WORDS FROM FOUR OF THE RECIPIENTS OF THE HENLEY & PARTNERS HERO SCHOLARSHIP MANAGED BY THE HALO FOUNDATION
(St. Mary’s University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada)
Jahrel Pelle
Planned profession: Opthalmologist
“Growing up in a small community where there are not many
outstanding individuals is not very advantageous. I believe that
I could be that individual to pave the way for the youths in my
community to aspire to reach their full potential.”
Ariana Joseph
Planned profession:Pediatric Surgeon. (Would like to
continue working in the research field, looking at minimally
invasive techniques for fetal surgery to correct congenital
defects).
“I began my third year as co-founder and president of the
St.Mary’s Optics Society whose main goal is to enlighten
individuals on the importance of optics and interdisciplinary
research in STEM fields through community outreach and
bridging the gap in knowledge between specialists and
non-specialists in the field.”
Raynier deBellotte
Planned profession: Oncologist
“For the upcoming academic year, we at the SMU Friends of
Halo Society are hoping to introduce an annual networking
event to be known as Sunset at the Oaks. It will be an
opportunity for members, non-members, potential sponsors
and representatives of varying organizations to mingle and
network with each other while raising funds for a worthy
cause.
Franklyn Southwell lll
Planned profession: Politician/Diplomat
“Since being here at Saint Mary’s, my knowledge and
understanding of political ideologies, terminologies and
economic systems has greatly expounded beyond my
expectations. I am truly blessed to have been given this
fabulous opportunity to pursue my dream.”
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FOCUS ON: FRIENDS OF THE CARE PROJECT
HALO DONATES $100,000 TO
FRIENDS OF THE CARE PROJECT
The Halo Foundation donated EC$ 100,000 to the Friends of the Care Project (FOTCP) at a brief handover
ceremony at Government House in November 2019. H.E. Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General, presented
the cheque to Dr. Kamal Moursy, Vice President of FOTCP and JoAnn Reddick, Secretary of the Board. In his
brief remarks, Sir Rodney reconfirmed the commitment of the Halo Foundation to provide assistance for the
charities under the patronage of the Governor General wherever possible. “The health of the nation is extremely
important, and the Care Project is making admirable strides with its outreach program. Children all across the
island are being diagnosed with conditions such as cerebral palsy, as a result of this outreach. Our financial
intervention will hopefully assist in various areas, like the training of parents and caregivers in the recognition of
neurological disorders”.
H.E. Lady Williams commented that Halo’s fundraisers like Wings of Charity held each June, and Music For
A Cause which took place on the lawns of Government House on November 30th, provide the capital required
to assist the needy. “Friends of the Care Project is a nonprofit organization with a clear vision and purpose, so
we are happy to support their efforts with this donation. I was first drawn to the “children” of the Project years
ago when it was known as Amazing Grace. One of the residents, Kevorn, had such a warm, wide smile and bore
any suffering he may have been enduring throughout the years with such grace and courage.
He was buried late last year. We pay homage to the life and legacy of Kevorn Etienne”.
Dr. Moursy and JoAnn Reddick, along with Tammy Charles, Board Director, expressed their appreciation to
Sir Rodney, Lady Williams and the Halo Foundation for their continued help and encouragement. The Care
Project is now housed in a brand new purpose-built facility at the site of the old Holberton Hospital, and
individual education plans have been introduced which allow the children to develop according to their specific
capabilities.
Tammy Charles, FOTCP Board Director; H.E. Lady Williams, Halo President and Founder; Dr. Kamal Moursy, FOTCP Vice President; H.E. Sir Rodney
Williams, Governor General; JoAnn Reddick, FOTCP Board Secretary; and Cuthbert Forbes Jr, Halo PRO.
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The Governor General visited
Kevorn at the Care Project
whenever he was able.
Lady Williams spends some
time with Kevorn.
Sir Rodney delivers an address at
the Care Project annual Christmas
program in December 2019

HAPPY TO SUPPORT
Medical attention
The Halo Foundation covered travel expenses for 8-year old
Keyarra Jacobs of Barbuda to seek medical assistance in
Trinidad. Keyarra was diagnosed with congenital glaucoma
only 10 days after birth. Her mother Ms. Akuwaah Benjamin,
who accompanied her, expressed profound gratitude to the
Foundation for its assistance. Dr. Robin Dass graciously offered
his services at no charge, and ensured that Ms. Jacobs received
priority care. Thanks also to Ms. Janet Sirjusingh, CEO at the
Princess Elizabeth Home in Port of Spain and her entire staff for
their kindness and charitable contribution
Sir Viv and Island Girls Golf
Tournament
Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Williams went out
to support the Sir Vivian Richards and Team Antigua Island
Girls Charity Golf Tournament at the Cedar Valley Golf Club
on Saturday November 2nd. Team Antigua is a charity
under the patronage of Lady Williams.
Supporting Women and Development
On Wednesday September 11, 2019 the Halo Foundation
presented Ms. Nicola Barriteau (Nicola Media) with a cheque
totaling $5,000 to assist with the off-setting of expenses for her
new project “The Story of A Woman”, featuring impactful women
from across the Caribbean region.
Furniture for families
Halo sought the assistance of local hotels in providing
furniture for families in dire need. Thank you to the Admiral’s
Inn for your kind donation of 2 mattresses for a family
in Gray’s Farm – because of this thoughtful gesture, the
family will be able to rest more comfortably. Thanks also to
Samaritan’s Purse, through whom many families were given
items of furniture at no cost.
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Halo Hero Humanitarian Award
goes to 2 young Antiguans
Mr. Jahrel Pelle – The Halo Humanitarian Award –
Tertiary Level - For humanitarian services rendered to
the community
Mr Jahrel Pelle is a dedicated, passionate and goal oriented
young man. He is the son of Rupert and Carol Pelle of Villa Area,
Antigua. Jahrel is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science
Degree in Biology at the Saint Mary’s University in Nova scotia,
Canada and later hopes to become an optometrist as his
grandmother suffered from glaucoma. His father, along with
himself, have also been diagnosed with this eye disease.
This vibrant young man believes that he would be able to make
his dream become a reality. Over the past few years, Jahrel has
attained many achievements. He was the valedictorian of the
Villa Primary and the Antigua Grammar Schoo,l where he also
served as head boy. While at the Antigua Grammar School,
he was a part of the Jr. Science Quiz Team, Debating Team
and A.G.S Steel Orchestra. Jahrel has a deep affection for
music. He enjoys playing the violin, and is also a member of
the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra.
He would consider his most important accomplishments
to be in the area of humanitarian work. Jahrel was an active
member of the St. Johns Seventh-day Adventist Pathfinder
Club, and is now involved in the Advent Youth Ministry. By
taking part in these ministries, he was able carry out frequent
visits to elderly homes, and to the Project Hope Community
Centre. He willingly participated in the free distribution of hot
soup, breakfast, clothing, toys and books to individuals in the
community. Ever mindful of his long term goal of qualifying as
an optometrist, he volunteered at Dr. Jillia Bird’s Office, where
he was able to learn new techniques and the opportunity to
assist Dr. Bird at various summer camps across Antigua and
Barbuda. The camps provided great practical experiences
for Jahrel. He is also an active member of the Saint Mary’s
University Friends of Halo Society, which seeks to offer aid and
give back to its community in any way possible.
Jahrel was awarded the Henley and Partners Hero Scholarship
, a full 4-year undergraduate scholarship managed by the Halo
Foundation. He believes that he could be the individual to
pave the way for the youth in his community to aspire to reach
their full potential, and to never let anything hinder them from
attaining their goals. It is his belief that through hard work,
determination and faith in God, we can do all things through
Christ who gives us strength.
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Ms. Nathania Silston –The Halo Humanitarian Award –
Secondary Level -For humanitarian services rendered to
the community
A Form 4 secondary school student, Nathania loves life,
interacting with others and helping those in need. She has
opened doors for accessing such opportunities through her
membership in a number of organizations such as the Inter-
Schools Christian Fellowship, Interact and the Optimist Clubs
of the Antigua Girls’ High School. Ms. Silston is also an active
member of the 9th Antigua Girl Guides Unit.
She is described as a “star girl guide” who is very courteous
and kind, and whose willingness to help and to bring cheer
to others has assisted her in gaining a number of badges for
kindness and bravery. Her guide leader recounted that on
one occasion, a new girl joined the unit and appeared to be
withdrawn. While other girls kept their distance, Nathania
made it a point to befriend her in a most touching way,
bringing a smile to her face. It turned out later that her act of
kindness went a long way in assisting a fellow teenager who
was experiencing the trauma of being bullied at her school.
The transformation in the young lady by this act of kindness
has also brought encouragement and comfort to her family
members who are truly grateful to Nathania. She is also brave
and willing to participate in hiking and other adventures, and
she approaches a challenge in the same way in which she
approaches those in need --with eager anticipation that all will
be well in the long run.
Her talents are displayed through her participation in her
school’s steel band and choir. She has also represented her
school in the Junior Science Quiz educational programme.
A devout church member who assists with teaching young
children spiritual lessons, Nathania believes that loving and
serving others is a core value which must be demonstrated in
everyday life.
Born Nathania Aaliyah Beyonce Lynea to Lydia Davis -Silston
and Barrymore Silston, this 16-year old young lady is a
role model not only for her peers, but also for many older
individuals who are devoid of the desire to love and serve
others.

STOP BULLYING START CARING
Students at the Pigotts Primary School and the Pares Secondary School participated in activities to raise awareness
of bullying as part of the Halo Foundation’s bullying prevention program launched in October 2018. The program is
funded by the Maria Holder Memorial Trust.
“Teachers and students dismissed that statement today that says, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words
will never hurt me!” For years, we used to quote that, even in school – but in truth and in fact, it’s wrong. Words DO
HURT! For our anti-bullying and PBM activity this month, the focus was, ‘Say Something Nice!’ In all of our classes
today, we spoke about how words hurt and instead teachers encouraged students and ourselves to speak positively
in the lives of the students. In other words, instead of pulling down by saying things that hurt, say something nice. Be
positive!
We made cards to show both the negative and positive words that can affect our lives.
#nobullyingzone #pigottsprimary #wewanttomakeadifference”
Christmas may be over, but we can still celebrate! Thank
you to the Pares Secondary School for performing a lovely
rendition of one of the old time favourite Christmas songs,
sporting their cool antibullying t-shirts! (Listen in at https://
fbwat.ch/1jhaELXk7xdoCT9f).
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THERE’S NO
STOPPING TIGER!
Halo partnered with both Roberts Construction and Dr.
Nicholas Fuller to build a cement work area and a wheelchair
ramp for Eric “Tiger” Charles of Charles & Charles Ornamental
Concrete, located in Bendals. The area will allow Mr. Charles,
who was confined to a wheelchair several years ago from an
on-the-job injury, to continue operating his small business
single-handedly. “When it rained, I would not be able to work
because the yard become flooded”, said Mr. Charles. “But
now I can better adapt to adverse weather conditions, and
production of headstones and garden ornamental pieces and
paving stones will be uninterrupted”.
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In 2017, “Tiger” received a plaque and a cheque for $1,000 ,
recognizing him as the first recipient of Halo’s “Exceptionally
Able” award.
Photo L-R
Dr. Nick Fuller; Carolyn Simon – Finance Manager, Roberts
Construction; H.E. Sir Rodney Williams; Eric “Tiger” Charles
and H.E. Lady Williams.

Aidan McCauley came to Antigua 16 years
ago to build Sugar Ridge for the family business.
Through his direction, the hotel has become a leading
Wellness destination in the Caribbean with Aidan
pioneering hiking and yoga tourism through his Yoga
Antigua and Hike Caribbean brands. So much that he
has become the unofficial Wellness ambassador of
Antigua. He jokes that he has really done it all for his
own mind, body and soul.
Through Sugar Ridge’s Golden Green Globe
accreditation, Aidan’s efforts extend into the
community with a focus on his passions for sport and
the environment.
PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH
AIDAN MCCAULEY
He is also a patron of the Arts, sponsoring young
Antiguan talent and hosting events with International
artists in Antigua.
He is proud of his association with the Halo Foundation
and the inspirational work it does.
IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR!
His Excellency the Governor General , on “ward rounds”
at the Mount St. John Medical Centre, distributes gifts
to mothers and newly born babies a few days before
Christmas.
Nadia Dyson (pictured above), along with her husband Sam of
Luxury Vacations, partnered with the Halo Foundation to provide
presents for the children’s homes across Antigua during this
season of giving.
H.E. Sir Rodney Williams and Virgin Atlantic’s Flight Service
Manager, Lynn Sutherby, visit the Pediatric Ward at the
hospital and bring cheer to the children by handing out toys
and other goodies
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Briggins Road St. John’s, Antigua
Tel: (268) 481-1330/1331/2 • Fax: (268) 481-1335 • kennedys@candw.ag