Queen Elizabeth 11, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, the nation’s figurehead and a towering presence on the world stage for seven decades, died peacefully at her home in Scotland on Thursday aged 96.
I express profound thanks to Her Majesty for validating my work with the youths in my community and country by awarding me a Queen’s Young Leaders award. Indeed, the award opened doors for me that might have otherwise been close, as well as provided me with a platform to give back more.
I owe the Queen a debt of gratitude for what she has done, not just for me but other young persons across the Commonwealth who are/were giving voluntary service to their community without even being recognized at home.
I can still remember vividly, after accepting my award at Buckingham palace in 2015, we had a great discussion at the reception, in which we talk about a number of things including the 2009 constitutional referendum . I was left impressed by your grace and your memories of your visits to St. Vincent and Mustique. indeed, the feeling was surreal, after all, it wasn’t normal for me to have a conversation with such a historical figure ( the longest serving monarchy) who at the time was eighty-nine years old and going strong.
Her love for the Commonwealth was clear . St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a small nation has benefitted tremendously from being a part of the organization in terms of development, democracy and peace . So as King Charles takes the reign, questions will be asked about the future of the Commonwealth but Her Majesty legacy will prevail.
So on behalf of myself and the Kenville Horne Sports Academy , I express our gratitude to Her Majesty for recognizing me and all the other young leaders within the Commonwealth. My deepest condolences to the Royal Family and may Her soul rest in peace !
Dillion Olliviere and Jodie Dennie were the second and third Vincentians to have received the aware.