The Tribune

ADMINISTRATIVE professionals of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) and its Group of Companies enjoyed an afternoon of fine food, entertainment and prizes in celebration of ‘Administrative Professionals’ Day.’

Held at Little Harbour Cay in the Manor House of the Grand Lucayan, the event allowed executive management to thank a host of well-deserving recipients.

“An event such as this is very important in the life of a company,” said GBPA Chairman, Ian Fair.

“It is obvious that you have lots of energy and a very positive attitude. The importance of everybody working well together can not be overlooked because it makes for a strong company and a happy environment to work in.”

Ian Rolle, GBPA President, described the administrative staff as the backbone and lifeblood of the company. “You truly make a difference. Without you there would surely be chaos in many offices,” he said.

In a day of speeches and well-wishes, some 40 attendees were treated to special performances by Little Miss Glitz, Martinique Storr of Sister Mary Patricia Russell Junior High with her humorous portrayal as Little Miss Daisy.

Soloist, Tony Lowe, of Cable 12 fame, serenaded the guests of honour with songs that brought many to their feet with requests for encores.

Certified Corporate Trainer and Motivational Speaker, Deborah Pratt of DAPS Corporate Training and Business Services, spoke under the theme, ‘The Power of a Positive Attitude’, and reminded her listeners at the outset that their attitudes determine how high, or how far they go in life.

“As adults, we should be able to think for ourselves and realise that our attitudes are under our control. In spite of past experiences, or our upbringing, we determine how we choose to react in any situation. Our future is in our hands and we can indeed be successful in life if we resolve to change our attitude,” she said.

Emphasising the importance of endearing attributes at the workplace, Pratt added: “As a positive individual you will offer quality customer service, thus benefiting your company and possibly seeing a promotion for you. Your work environment will also have a better atmosphere if all employees develop a positive attitude.”

After prescribing a self-evaluation for all in attendance, the well-known columnist and radio show host wrapped-up with an overview of six practical steps:

“When you see those bad attitudes creeping in, review the situation, resolve to make a change, reframe by thinking like a winner, rehearse or practise a more positive attitude, repeat the positive attitude continually and you should soon see a renewal within yourself,” said Pratt.

The GBPA administrative professionals capped off the afternoon of festivities with a fashion show of stylish handbags courtesy of downtown Freeport retailer, Steppin Out.