From 16 July to 26 July, 2012 several beautiful girls were sighted entering the Alwyn Allison Primary School,West End. A total of 20 girls between the ages of 10-12 were participants in the summer programme, Beautiful Girls. The young girls learned that each of them is unique and beautiful. They were taught to improve their self-worth and self -confidence and to carry themselves with grace and dignity.
The programme, in its second year, is the brainchild of Ms. Dawne Richardson, of North Hill, who is committed to building the self- esteem of young girls. Programme funding was made possible solely by the Blanchard’s Anguilla Children’s Fund (BACF). BACF was established by Bob and Melinda Blanchard of Blanchard’s Beach Shack and Blanchard’s Restaurant both located onMeadsBay.
This year’s summer programme continued to incorporate learning, crafts, games and fun into an exciting nine days of activities. Much thanks and appreciation is extended to the various renowned presenters who volunteered their time to this community endeavor. They included:
Arlene Bailey – ” African Origins: Its History and Culture” ; Calvert Carty – “Anguilla’s Culture Past and Present”; and Colville Petty who gave the girls a guided tour ofHeritageCollectionMuseum.
A session entitled “Healthy Living, Nutrition, Hygiene and Sexuality” was well covered by Nurse, Mrs. Dana Ruan .
Ms. Dawne Richardson presented a participatory session on “Role Models & Women Who Rock”. Mrs. Melinda Blanchard engaged the girls in “Women in Business”. Mrs. Sandra York Gumbs covered “Five Things Every Girl Should Know; Women to Girls”. Ms. Arjul Wilson, along with Ms. Shelicia, Brooks capped the day off with “Social Graces and the Art and Style of Being a Young Lady”.
The success of Beautiful Girls is attributed to the teamwork of its visionary Dawne Richardson; the funding, commitment and energy of the Blanchard’s; the dedicated and caring professionalism of the facilitators, Mrs Vivienne Fleming and Mrs. Chanicia Frederick both experienced practicing school counselors.
The programme was coordinated by Mrs. Arlene Bailey Franklin, a seasoned social worker with extensive community organization and management skills. Most of all, the enthusiasm of the girls and their parents contributed immensely to the programme’s success. A special thank you is extended to all the staff of the Department of Education who helped to enable the programme to have another successful year.
– Contributed
