Nearly two weeks after being honoured with the institutional award for their humanitarian endeavours, Team Antigua Island Girls shared an inspiration message of goal setting, and determination.
Speaking on Observer AM yesterday, the members of Team Antigua Island Girls spoke about following even the most unconventional goals.
“If you have a goal in mind, no matter how unconventional it is, follow it,” advised team member Kevinia Francis. “And in doing so, you will find community. It may not always be right around you, but you can seek it out.”
The team added that support systems such as families, friends and co-workers are important in life and achieving goals. They encouraged young women and girls to take action on their dreams.
“The biggest thing that prevents them from going forward is they don’t take action,” said Christal Clashing.
The all-female rowing team captured the nation’s attention and pride during the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge (TWAC) in 2018.
Despite having no prior rowing experience, the team— Elvira Bell, Christal Clashing, Samara Emmanuel, and Kevinia Francis—embarked on an intense training regimen to prepare for the grueling 3,000-mile journey.
“We honestly, really and truly appreciated the support and encouragement that we have received from [Antiguans and Barbudans],” said Bell.
Beyond their remarkable achievement, the Island Girls have also made a lasting impact through their charitable initiatives.
Forming a non-profit organization, the team has been giving back to their community, distributing leftover race supplies and donations to those in need.
“We give back yearly, and we don’t often post about it, [such as with the recent] Atlantic Challenge which ends in Antigua every year and a lot of the times, we get the leftover food and some of the kits donated, and we give back to other institutions, families and persons who are less fortunate,” expressed Bell who appealed to continue to support their charity.
