The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Pi Upsilon Omega Chapter, marked the start of its 39th annual Twenty Pearls signature programme with a pinning ceremony for more than 40 high school girls on Grand Bahama.

Senator D’Asante Small delivered the keynote address at the event, held on Thursday, October 8, at the Rand Nature Center under the theme “The Power of Excellence”.

A total of 46 students from high schools across the island were selected to participate in this year’s programme and were presented with pins during the ceremony.

Ms Small encouraged the young women to pursue excellence through discipline, leadership, responsibility and sisterhood, emphasising that it should be a daily commitment to personal growth.

“Excellence is just not a destination. It’s about your habits, your discipline, your commitment, your courage to show up every day and just be your better selves,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of mentorship, noting that seeing women in leadership positions helps young women recognise the opportunities available to them. She encouraged established women leaders to remain accessible and help younger women navigate their personal and professional development.

Ms Small said young women need positive influences, guidance and exposure to career opportunities, professional development and scholarships beyond what they see on social media.

Reflecting on the programme’s history, she said its longevity was a testament to the commitment and sacrifice of the women who had sustained the initiative for nearly four decades. She added that the programme allowed a vision to be passed from one generation to the next, empowering young women to develop and contribute positively to their communities.

Alisa Arthur, chairman of the Twenty Pearls Committee, said the participants would take part in church and community service activities, along with sessions on college readiness, career preparation, leadership and self-awareness.

The programme will conclude with an awards ceremony on April 4, 2027, when participants will be recognised for academic achievement, community service and leadership. Scholarships will also be presented.

Ms Arthur said more than $15,000 in scholarships was awarded last year. Three participants received scholarships, including two who secured full scholarships to Philander Smith College, while another received a partial scholarship to LeMoyne-Owen College.

As the programme enters its 39th year, Ms Arthur said the chapter remains committed to the legacy established in 1987, providing young women with mentorship and opportunities to develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed.