By Elesha George
Ten outstanding individuals were recognised on Sunday night by the Junior Chamber International (JCI) for their exceptional contributions across various fields, including journalism, education, agriculture, and humanitarian work. Among the honorees were Latrishka Thomas, a senior news producer at NewsCo Ltd, who received the Media Trailblazer Award.
The recognition marks a significant milestone in Thomas’ five-year career, which she describes as a journey of passion, growth, and purpose. “I’ve developed a passion for telling stories and for telling stories that sometimes otherwise go untold,” she said.
Thomas, a leading court reporter, copped the award which honours an individual whose work in the field of journalism and media exhibits substantial impact on the industry.
“I was elated when I found out that I was being honoured with a media trailblazer award because for me journalism wasn’t something that I always envisioned for myself. When I look back at my career, the fact that I started on a whim, I would have applied to several places and I had two offers at the exact same time and I went with my gut and I haven’t regretted it since,” she said.
“It’s good to be honoured in such a way because journalism is really a thankless job and over my five-year career, I’ve realised that people don’t often say thank you for writing this story, thank you for shedding light on this issue. People often critique. People always have something negative to say. And I think that in this field, it’s necessary. Not necessary; let me not say necessary, but it’s great to feel appreciated, to see that you’re actually impacting others, that you’re actually affecting some sort of change.”
A Sociology and Psychology graduate from the University of the West Indies, Latrishka found her true calling in journalism, gravitating toward court reporting—a niche where she has excelled. “Coincidentally, I was an A student in law, and it comes in very, very handy. I’m known for my court stories and I enjoy telling those stories, and I intend to continue doing so.”
This marks the second consecutive year that a NewsCo journalist has won the Media Trailblazer Award, following investigative journalist Elesha George’s recognition in 2023.
Another awardee — Sharon Kelsick, General Secretary of the Antigua & Barbuda Union of Teachers (A&BUT) – was celebrated for her contributions to education with the Education Exemplar Award. Kelsick, a 16-year veteran educator, described the recognition as unexpected but deeply meaningful.
“It’s a gratifying feeling,” she shared. “It came as a shock because I didn’t even know that I was nominated, much less to win the award. Up to now, I don’t know who nominated me, but I’m grateful to that person. When you’re in education, these are the moments that make the work worth it.”
Kelsick reflected on the challenges educators face, noting that the profession often demands more than what can be compensated financially. “They can never pay us enough for the amount of work that we do. It’s in these moments [like winning an award] that you feel appreciated, and it makes the hard work worth it,” she said.
Beginning her career in 2008 as a Spanish teacher, she has taught in both public and private schools, allowing her to experience the nuances of different educational environments. Despite moments of doubt and thoughts of leaving the profession, her commitment to her students and colleagues kept her grounded.
“I remember the exact day I got the call for my first teaching interview. I told myself I’d give it five years while saving to study international relations, which was my original plan. But I fell in love with teaching,” she explained.
Her dedication extends beyond the classroom. A graduate of Princess Margaret School, Kelsick returned to her alma mater as a teacher, actively engaging in extracurricular activities to build stronger relationships with her students. She believes that such involvement enhances the teaching experience and fosters meaningful connections.
As a prominent member of the A&BUT, Kelsick has become a vocal advocate for improving the working conditions of educators. She emphasised the union’s role in ensuring teachers have the resources and environments necessary to thrive.
Other awardees include:
- Khan Cordice, Director of Culture, soloist, arranger, and composer, recipient of the Musical Maestro Award.
- Keisha Knight, honoured with the Action for Agriculture Award for revitalizing her family’s livestock farm through sustainability and community development.
- Ariel Derrick, who received the Courage to Care (Humanitarian) Award as President of the Rotaract Club of Antigua.
- Ashema Willock, owner of Shemz Palette, awarded for Culinary Excellence.
- Ajante Fraser, President Antigua and Barbuda Esports, recognised for Information Technology Innovation.
- Chaneil Imhoff, mental health activist, celebrated as a Mental Health & Wellness Advocate.
- Ancier White, recipient of the Enterprise through Entrepreneurship Award.
- Jessica Zouetr, honoured with the Phenomenal Leadership Award.
Special recognition was also given to Kendal Harrigan, a JCI member and nominee, for his contributions in Culinary Arts.
During the ceremony JCI also installed its new board of directors and elected several new senators to the organization.
