The Saint Lucia Toronto Affiliation (SLTA), in partnership with The Consulate Common of Saint Lucia, lately hosted a grand celebration to mark the forty fifth Anniversary of Independence on March ninth. The occasion, held on the Luxe Conference Centre in Mississauga, included speeches, performances, and a deep sense of neighborhood spirit.
Luana, President of the SLTA, led off the night with an emotional deal with and, regardless of going through well being challenges, conveyed her heartfelt greetings to the diaspora. She highlighted the Affiliation’s long-standing dedication to selling St. Lucian tradition in Canada and emphasised the significance of unity and resilience within the face of challenges.
Reflecting on the Affiliation’s journey since its inception in 1970, Luana spoke of its humble beginnings as a gathering area for the neighborhood, which has since grown into a significant group that helps St. Lucians throughout Canada. She underscored the necessity for brand new members and volunteers to assist the Affiliation proceed its mission.
As a part of the forty fifth Independence Celebration, the SLTA provided a particular discounted membership fee for attendees, encouraging them to affix and assist the Affiliation’s work. The night’s theme, “Constructing a Nation By Unity, Resilience, and Creativity,” underscored the Affiliation’s dedication to strengthening the neighborhood for future generations.
The keynote speech was delivered by the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, who mirrored on the importance of the forty fifth Anniversary of Independence for St. Lucians each at dwelling and overseas.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the sacrifices and contributions of previous generations within the wrestle for independence. He emphasised that independence was not only a political milestone but in addition a cultural and social one, marking the reaffirmation of St. Lucian’s identification and sovereignty.
Reflecting on the theme of “Constructing a Nation By Unity, Resilience, and Creativity,” Pierre highlighted the significance of resilience within the face of challenges, noting that it was the energy of the neighborhood that might guarantee its continued success. He emphasised the creativity of St. Lucians, each in Canada and at dwelling, highlighting their contributions to varied fields resembling arts, tradition, and enterprise.
The night’s celebration additionally acknowledged excellent people who’ve made vital contributions to their communities and upheld the values of St. Lucian independence. Amongst them have been Jada Theodore and Chris Precius, each from St. Lucia.
Jada Theodore, a third-year nursing pupil at McMaster College, was honored with the SYLC YQUTH EXCELLENCE AWARD for her dedication to selling and preserving St. Lucian tradition. She leads the dance staff at McMaster Caribbean Affiliation (MACAWS) and mentors first-year college students, whereas additionally organizing charitable initiatives resembling a clothes drive for The Phoenix Empowerment Basis in St. Lucia and fundraising for The Caribbean Youngsters Basis. Regardless of such a busy schedule, Theodore maintains a 4.0 grade level common.
Chris Precius obtained the SLTA PRESIDENTS AWARD for his excellent achievements as an expert dancer, performer, and youth advocate. Beginning his profession at age 15, Chris has mastered varied types of dance and is understood for his experience in hearth dancing, hearth consuming, and hearth dragons.
Deterville and her mother Thecla C Deterville, winner of St Lucia Les Pitons
Gold Medal for Enterprise, Training and Sports activities (Netball)
He has carried out all through the Caribbean, England, and Canada, showcasing his abilities and galvanizing youth by means of workshops and lessons in drumming, dance, and health. Chris’s dedication to selling Caribbean tradition and empowering younger folks displays the spirit of St. Lucian independence.
