Two role model youths

VEERA BHAJAN and Rhonda Charles were hailed as exemplars to all young people at last night’s National Awards ceremony at President’s House and should inspire other youths to strive for excellence at the national level. Bhajan, despite being born without arms, achieved seven CXC distinctions at this year’s Ordinary Level examinations. Charles risked her life to save a 76-year-old blind woman from a burning building. Both young women were awarded the Humming Bird Silver Medal at last night’s awards. Of Bhajan’s and Charles’ achievements, Chaconia Gold Medal recipient and Petrotrin chairman Malcolm Jones said: “I think it excellent that people are being recognised for their contributions pretty early. By doing that, you are really encouraging other young people to contribute in a significant way.” Fellow Chaconia Gold Medal recipient, businessman Arthur Lok Jack agreed with Jones. “I think that young people should be able to get the awards as long as they deserve it,” Lok Jack said.

Both men said they were honoured to receive their respective awards. Lok Jack expressed the hope that there would be more National Awards for business. Speaking to Newsday, Bhajan said: “I feel very elated (to receive this award). I really hope this will inspire other young people and other students to do well. I really feel honoured.” She encouraged youths to “stay focussed on your dreams and goals.” Charles said her entire community was elated at her achievement and she was especially happy that her mother Mabel was out of hospital, even though she could not attend the awards. She added that while her act of bravery did not frighten her, receiving a National Award did. Retired Permanent Secretary Zilda Rajnauth said she was pleased to receive her Chaconia Gold Medal and it was a tribute to the hard work which Permanent Secretaries did behind the scenes of Government every day. “Our job is to make our ministers look good while maintaining our integrity as accounting officers,” she said.