New student awards go to first ever recipients

(CNS): A local college student who felt boosted by the recognition he received when he won an several accolades led him to create the “Pursuit of Excellence” awards designed to encourage local students. Lloyd Barker, who is currently studying for a business degree in Canada established the award to motivate and inspire young people to offer a helping hand to one another and acknowledge and award young people aiming for excellence. David Lee, from the Cayman International School and Alyssa Ebanks from John Gray have become the first recipients of what Barker hopes will grow into a wider project offering scholarships and more for students truly striving for excellence.

“This award is to encourage young people and show their good works are not going unnoticed,” he said. “It is to provide an incentive for students to continue working hard, allowing their hard work to be an example to others. The nominees were reviewed and the recipients were decided based on academic, character, and community excellence. The award recognizes individuals who best incorporate the three elements in their lives, serving as leaders to their peers and maximizing their capacities.”

David Lee, was singled out as the most well rounded student in the private schools category who as well as doing well academically was marked out by his altruism and discipline as well as balancing many activities with his school work and maintaining some of the best grades.

Meanwhile, it was Alyssa Ebanks from John Gray who received the government school award also balancing a list of after-school volunteer work with her studies Alyssa works at the humane society and plays trumpet in the school band. A prefect and a member of the School Flight Club since 2011 and served as Club President from 2012-2014where as a result of her involvement, she was identified as a candidate to pursue her private pilot licence at just 16 years old. Earning “Best Report” at John Gray High School this year and last her humanitarian qualities, Barker said along with her motivation made her the first choice for the public school recipient.