One had to be in attendance to understand the overwhelming spirit of camaraderie and jubilation that characterized the first award ceremony held by JTR Advance Security Company for its staff and customers on Sunday night, March 3. The delightful venue was the Red Dragon Inn, at South Hill, known for its mass parties and other entertainment functions.
The security company, established in 2002, is by far the best organized and equipped of the Anguillian-owned companies and has progressed by leaps and bounds. The company has a staff of 87, spread out proportionally at hotels, villas, supermarkets, gas stations, schools and communities throughout Anguilla. Its CEO is Mr. Franklyn Rogers, a new generation businessman widely respected and with a keen sense of vision and service.
When asked the reason for awarding his employees, Mr. Rogers told The Anguillian newspaper: “It is for staff motivation. I think staff members everywhere need to be motivated and feel appreciated for what they are doing. What we do is a dangerous job. We leave our families and go out to protect other people’s businesses, and I think that to do that is commendable so I want to appreciate my staff.”
Mr. Rogers, a soft-spoken and easy-going gentleman, spent a number of years in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, where he worked in the hotel sector. He is married to Mrs .Volcine Richardson-Rogers formerly of North Hill, Anguilla. They have three children, one of whom is a university student in the United States.
The categories of employees who received awards were: James Proctor Supervisor of the Year (2018); Aaron Peirre, Supervisor of the Month (February); Clitena Hilton, Employee of the Year, Belmond, Cap Juluca; Hilroy Williams, Employee of the Month, Belmond Cap Juluca; Dean Browne, Employee of the Year, K-9 Division; Cardiff Warren, K-9 Division; Fitzallan Duncan, Employee of the Year. Zenaida Haven; Cecil Griffiths, Employee of the Month, Zenaida Haven; Steven Swaby, Employee of the Year, Zemi Beach; Kadien Reddick, Employee of the Month, Zemi Beach; Ann Marie James, Employee of the Month, Malliouhana Hotel; Charmaine Gumbs, Employee of the Month, Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School; Rudolph Williams, Employee of the Year, Central Division; and Lloyd Coley, Employee of the Month, Central Division.
Two groups of employees with five and seven years respectively, received awards. A special award was presented to Sheryl Wilson, Belmond Cap Juluca, Division 2. A number of customers also received awards and Mr. Rogers and his family were awarded by the staff members for their commitment to them.
The feature address, on the topic “Resilient through the Years”, was delivered by Mrs. Marilyn Hodge, a Trained Teacher and Certified Counsellor. She spoke about Mr. Rogers’ vision in setting up the first security company in Anguilla; his challenges and successes; his caring love for his employees and their empowerment; and his sense of accomplishment and value.
“It is important that all your team members maintain a high professional service in creating a safe and secure working environment for the island at large,” Mrs. Hodge advised. “I implore you, the JTR staff, to continue to strive to uphold your commitment to compliance and excellent customer service. Anguilla needs you now more than ever, as we forge through these difficult times. Workers like you make this island succeed.”
Mrs. Hodge went on: “In this company we value your effort, and are very happy that you are a part of us. Your input is very important for us to be able to continue growing and become the best. We are fully confident in your work. Your work is always our best introduction to our customers. Keep up the good work. Resilience means being able to adapt to life’s misfortunes and setbacks, and you as a team has demonstrated that.”
She added: “I can proudly say that JTR is the best security company in Anguilla today. I know your talent and effort are the best, and I congratulate you for that.”
