Three young men from Mangrove Cay High School were recognised this week for combining academic achievement with community service, as Leon Lundy, Minister of State with Responsibility for Disaster Risk Management and Member of Parliament for Central Mangrove Cay and South Andros, traveled to his constituency to present the annual Lundy South and Central Andros Schools (SACS) Award.
Glendieko Forbes, Sheldon Cash Jr. and Jakeem Green of Mangrove Cay High School received accolades for their scholarly merit and community spirit.
The Lundy SACS Award began before Lundy’s entry into frontline politics, initially as an effort to recognise high school students who balanced academics with service. He believes these qualities are necessary to becoming effective nation builders. From island boy to the halls of Parliament, Lundy has set an example of how young men and women from rural communities can, with discipline and diligence, become national leaders.
“The award represents a commitment to responsible citizenship,” Lundy said. “Leadership begins with service.”
The Lundy SACS Award recognises students in grades 10 through 12 who combine strong academic performance with measurable service through churches, civic groups, school initiatives and community projects. It is believed to be the first time all awardees at the participating school were male.
Mangrove Cay High School Principal Carolyn Thompson took MP Lundy on a tour of the school where he met with students and administrators. Thompson said she was proud of the young men and what they’ve worked to achieve. She is also grateful to Minister Lundy for recognizing greatness within their student body.
Lundy also presented Mangrove Cay High School’s senior boys’ Stinger’s basketball team with an award in recognition of their recent tournament win. Lundy pledged to sponsor a school-wide funday in their honour.
The Lundy SACS Award continues to underscore a clear message: academics and service are key pillars of high school leadership. By recognising students who lead in their classrooms and their communities, the award affirms that nation-building begins long before public office – in the daily choices young people make to show up, contribute and lead.
Source: Felicity Darville
