Spotlight on Shanice Simmons

Smart, courageous, determined… these are just a few of the terms that were used to describe this young lady to me. I have yet to meet her but she came highly recommended and I know she definitely fits the profile of a Girl Talk Spotlight Teen and role model.

Eighteen year old Shanice Alexandria Simmons is the out-going Deputy Headgirl at Sunland Baptist Academy. She is an honour roll student graduating with a 3.7 grade point average.
Shanice has 5 BJC’s passed with 2As and 3B’s. She is currently taking her BGCSE’s one of which she had to take in the hospital due to ill health. Ironically, Shanice also had to take one of her BJC’s in the hospital. However, this teen refuses to let anything keep her down and faces whatever challenges she encounters with a smile.

Shanice is active in school and church activities including, Soccer, Governor General’s Youth Award, Choir, and Youth Ministry.

How do you manage to maintain such excellent grades? I prioritize my time.

What is your favorite high school memory? Receiving Deputy Head Girl

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Hanging with my friends

Who inspires you and why? My parents are my inspiration because they remind me that they are working hard for me to have it easier than they did. This motivates me to make them proud and also make myself proud so their efforts won’t be fruitless.

What are your plans for the future? I plan to study Medicine at UWI to become a Pediatric Nephrologist.

What played a role in you making this choice? After many years of travelling abroad to see doctors I aspire to become the first Pediatric Nephrologist living in the Bahamas.

What are your plans for your first summer as a high school graduate? Sleep, eat shop and travel...It’s been long school year.

What are some of the difficulties you have faced in life? How have they helped you to grow into the person that you are? At the age of two I was diagnosed with a kidney defect (Minimal Change Disease). It has helped me to be independent because I do not let my family or friends treat me any different than anyone else. It has also helped me to be compassionate especially when I see someone in pain. The reason I want to become a doctor is because it has helped me to realize obstacles in life will arise but it up to you to overcome it... I realize, ya fail if you don’t try so I rather fail trying... What do I have to lose?

What is your biggest pet peeve? Indiscriminate dumping

What advice would you like to give the class of 2011? You don’t have as much time as you think ...Be ye also ready…

Finish these sentences I smile my biggest smile when … enemies expect me to wear a frown
I often dream about… being successful
God is… the author and finisher of my faith
The world would be a better place if… people would work together and communicate effectively.
My future looks…. Awesome!

GT June 2010

This teen graduated from Sunland Baptist Academy earlier this evening.

Spotlight on Lachante Williams

If you meet this issue’s spotlight teen the first thing you’d probably notice is her radiant smile. If her face looks familiar it’s because her photos have appeared regularly in Girl Talk since she was about 12 years old. This issue’s spotlight teen is the delightful, graceful, fun loving and intelligent Lachante Naomi Williams.

Lachante is a seventeen year old 12th grade honor roll student and prefect at Jack Hayward High School. She has big dreams for her future and along with 6 BJC’s she has passed 5 BGCSE’s in 11th grade all with C and above which already qualifies her for a government scholarship. Lachante plans to study at College of the Bahamas and earn a degree in Electrical Engineering.

This active teen keeps busy with several extracurricular activities. She has been a dedicated member of the Zion Baptist Marching band for over six years. During that time she has been awarded Band Member of the Year and Section Leader. She plays the clarinet and saxophones and also teaches these instruments to new band members.

Lachante also loves to dance and participates in – Tap, Gymnastics, Ballet, Hip-Hop and Jazz. In her free time she enjoys listening to music, playing music, reading or just relaxing.

What would you like to tell the class of 2011? Grade 12 ends quicker than any other, after that crazy period of coursework and whatever else is driving you crazy, there is a lot of free time on your hands, use it wisely.

Who inspires you and why? My mother inspires me the most because she is truly a phenomenal woman and the best mother she could possibly be. I've watched her make sacrifices, struggle and stand up for what she believes in and this inspires because I want to be strong and determined like her some day.

What are you looking forward to as you leave high school? Learning more on my own and experiencing a new sense of freedom.

What advice have you been given that you will always remember? I was told that accidents happen and mistakes are made, but that does not mean I have to give up. My future is in my hands and I have the power to make it what I want it to be.

What are your plans for your first summer as a high school graduate? I plan to chill with my friends before everyone gets split up and go their separate ways and start acting all grown up. I also plan to prepare myself for the lifetime of work ahead of me.

What are some pressures that you have faced as a young lady? There is a long list of pressures I have faced and am facing every day like pressure to smoke, drink, have sex, test homosexuality or bisexuality or even something as simple as people trying to influence what I wear.

How do you stand against peer pressure?
Most of the time, I look at the situation and decide that the possible consequences are not worth it. Also, I just look at the older ladies in my life and ask myself how would they act in this situation or how would they feel if they saw me doing this.

Where do you see yourself ten years from now? I see myself out of college with a master’s degree in engineering. Working with several trades on my side and beginning the process of building my dream home. Basically, just having a wonderful life with friends and family

What is your biggest pet peeve? Listening to the sound of someone chewing ice

If you could have one wish what would it be? To give my family all they ever wanted/needed.

You’ve been appearing in the pages of Girl Talk for several years as a model, what impact has G.T had on your life? For one, it made me more confident, because I was once shy. However, I got used to seeing myself and being seen by others in these magazines. Also, it made me feel like I could actually be a role model and it made me start carrying myself in a way that would make me a suitable role model for others. Being a G.T. model also taught me to be prepared for and to expect the unexpected, because my precious Auntie B. does not seem happy unless she is catching someone in some sort of off guard position.

Finish these sentences…
I smile my biggest smile when... everything in the world feels right for that one second.
I get angry when… I see other people or even me taking things for granted.
I often dream about… food (lol)
God is…All I'll ever need and more.
My future looks… like a blank canvas that I'm ready to create my masterpiece on.
La-Chanté Williams is… specially and wonderfully made with a purpose she will eventually fulfill.


Congratulations to this teen who graduates high school today.

GT June 2010

Spotlight on Miss Ashlea Archer

Every day is a new challenge. The closer I get to my career goals, the more confronted I am by things that make me feel sometimes intimidated or even frustrated. The blessing is in knowing that others have made this journey and that the mark in time I have made thus far was through faith, hard work and perseverance.
Ashlea Archer


It was five years ago when I first interviewed this courageous young woman. At that time she was a twelfth grader at St. Francis de Sales Catholic School in Marsh Harbour, Abaco Bahamas with an impressive academic record and big plans for the future. Now, twenty-one years old, Ashlea Archer is following the first phase of her college dream at Florida Southern College. Ashlea has faced medical problems both in high school and since she’s started college but she has an indomitable spirit that refuses to give up.

In high school you dreamt of becoming a heart surgeon. Is that still your goal? Yes, that is still my overall career goal. After graduating from high school I was blessed to work at a clinic on Abaco for several months and take part in the Student Temporary Employment Programme (S.T.E.P.) at Doctor’s Hospital. This experience was definitely a driving force for me to continue my journey. The more I saw, the more I felt inspired to be like the outstanding medical officers I shadowed.

How close are you to achieving your goal? I complete my undergraduate degree in Biology/pre-med May 2010. The next step is medical school which can take anywhere from 4-9 years. The time is somewhat extensive because I desire to specialize in pediatric cardiothoracic surgery.

How is college life different from high school?
The difference comes into play when you are faced with the responsibility to remain focused. There is no one to “supervise” your decisions so who you are comes to light as you are faced with adult decisions.

How do you handle being away from your family for extended periods? This is honestly best answered by the fact that I like to keep busy. I am very involved on my college campus and this helps to keep me focused. I also have wonderful friends who have become like family to me. Moreover, my sister has recently joined me at college so I definitely feel closer to home when I am with her.

Was there ever a period when you were not focused? As far as a moment when my focus lapsed, that would have to be second semester of my junior year. I was diagnosed with tumors in my breast and had to have surgery. This was a trying time because it placed physical pain on me as well as a lot of emotional strain on my family. I felt very overwhelmed at times and did my best to attend classes thankfully, my professors were very understanding. Shortly after my surgery one of my best friends died from a medical condition. I felt like my world was crumbling but by the grace of God and support of amazing friends and family that semester is behind me.

What do you do to unwind and have fun? I am really bad at taking breaks. But, I love exploring so I might take a bike ride with my sister if we have a free weekend. Long drives and shopping are also a fun. Also, one of my favorite things to do is sing (and I will be learning to play guitar soon). So, my friends and I can get into a music room and have a jam session, that’s always a great time.

One thing I noticed about you as a teenager was your passion for your faith. Was it difficult to maintain? It was difficult when I tried to walk it out alone. God divinely set friends in my life that have the same goals for spiritual growth that I do. In addition, my sister is also very strong in her relationship with God and she uplifts me in prayer as I do for her.

What advice do you have to encourage young ladies to follow their dreams? Perseverance is critical. My father tells me that a dream cannot become a reality until you wake up and map out a plan. Also, investigate what the qualifications are for your dream. If it is a college/program you may need certain grades, community service hours, letters of recommendation etc. Do not let the work intimidate you instead allow it to motivate you. "You can do ALL things through Christ Jesus!"

Spotlight on Miss Racquel Rose

The superpower I would like to have would probably be invisibility. It would be really fun to sneak up on people and scare them sometimes, and it would be handy when you want to hide from someone .

This humorous response to my silly question shows the mischievous, fun side of this issue’s Spotlight Teen, fourteen year old Miss Racquel Rose.

Racquel is a tenth grader at Sunland Baptist Academy. She is a friendly, highly motivated and disciplined student who always strives to do her very best. This exceptional teen finished off her ninth grade year with seven B.J.C’s with 6 A’s and 1 B and a GPA of 3.82. (Way to go Racquel!)


In addition to doing extremely well academically Racquel also finds time for extracurricular activities. She takes piano classes, and is in her school’s Hand bell Choir. She is also in the Anchor Club of Lucaya, and plans to join GGYA (Governor General Youth Awards.) Racquel also enjoys acting and was in her school’s play “Once on this Island.”

This studious teen is excited about her tenth grade year and her plans for the future. Her goal is to become a pediatrician when she grows up. One of the reasons she chose this field is because she loves children and likes the idea of being able to help them to get well and in so doing make the world a better place.

What are your hobbies?
I like to play the piano and sing. I also love to write. I write a lot stories and poems when I feel like it. I also love to read books, because to me they’re like a door to a whole new world.

What was your favorite part of summer vacation?
I’d have to say going out, when I got to see my friends and people I know. It’s always fun to get out of the house sometimes.

What is your biggest pet peeve?
My biggest pet peeve is when cars drive by houses and schools and other public places with their windows down and their music blasting so loud that it’s disturbing.

What is the secret to your success in school?
The secret to my success is staying focused and determined to achieve the goals that I set for myself and being disciplined to make it happen.

What are your goals for this school year and how do you plan to achieve them?
My goal for this school year is to do better than I did last year. I want to get a higher G.P.A and be more focused on my work. I plan to achieve this by studying harder, being more focused and not putting friends over my work.

What advice would you give to young ladies who are struggling academically?
I would tell them to keep trying no matter what. If they really set their minds to do well, I’m pretty sure they can, with a little extra hard work, focus and determination. Also, they can take extra classes in subjects where they are weak, because they do help a lot too.

What advice have you received that you will always remember? (It can be from anyone)
The advice I will always remember was from my mother, when I was about six, she told me that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”, and from then I’ve always practiced it.

What are some of your accomplishments that you are most proud of?
Well, I’m proud of my BJC results. I’m also proud of the scores I got on the music exam I took last year. I passed the practical and the theory part with a distinction and a merit.

Finish these sentences

I smile my biggest smile when I get my report card and see that I did as well as I wanted.


I get angry when I hear about or see people being unfairly treated or judged.

I often dream about being a successful doctor one day, marrying a nice husband with a good job, having two good kids and living in a nice house when I grow up.

God is an awesome God. He is caring, loving, merciful, great in all ways, fair, and compassionate, powerful and intelligent in ways that we can’t even understand.

The world would be a better place if more people would become Christians because then there would be less crimes and more happiness.

*BJC - Bahama Junior Certificate (usually taken in the ninth grade)

Spotlight on Miss Leria Smith

By Bernadine McIntosh

In a few weeks graduation season begins. Among the scores of smiling faces this year will be this issue’s spotlight teen, the beautiful, intelligent and ambitious Miss Leria Smith. Seventeen year old Leria will be graduating with honors from St. Georges High School on the 17th of this month.

Leria attended primary school in Exuma where she is originally from and transferred to St. Georges High School in seventh grade. She left her parents in Exuma and lives with her aunt who encourages her to always do her best and reach for the stars. Although she misses her family Leria has not allowed that to deter her from doing well because one of her ultimate goals is to make them proud.

During her time at St. Georges Leria has been very much involved in the Interact Club and Junior Achievement. She is also a part of the Rachel’s Daughters Mentoring Group at her church. In her spare time Leria enjoys singing and dancing which she says relaxes her and puts a smile on her face.

This ambitious teen is excited about the future and has big plans on what she wants to accomplish. Leria has chosen the field of Pediatrics to be her life’s work. The fact that she was able to do community service at the Rand Memorial Hospital only confirmed to her that a career in the medical field is indeed what she wants.

Leria has given herself only the summer to relax as she and has already been accepted into the College of the Bahamas for the fall semester. This is only the first stop on the journey towards her ultimate dream. After she’s finished with College of the Bahamas, Leria plans to go on to medical school.

Who do you admire most in life and why is it that you admire that person? I admire my aunty because I’ve seen how hard she worked as a single mother to provide for her and her daughter. Also, she accepted me into her home with open arms when I came to attend high school in seventh grade. She has taught me by her example that it is indeed better to give than to receive.

What are you looking forward to as you leave high school? I am looking forward to accomplishing all of my goals especially finishing my degrees and achieving my dream of becoming a doctor.

What advice have you been given about your future after high school that you will always remember? I was told that nothing is impossible if I just believe in myself.

What are your plans for your first summer as a high school graduate? This summer I plan to relax and enjoy my freedom while it last because soon as summer over it will be back in the books as I start my college journey.

What are some pressures that you have faced as a young lady? I think the greatest pressure I feel is the pressure to do well in school and make my parents proud of me.

What words of advice do you have for those young ladies you’re going to leave behind when you graduate this June? My advice to those I leave behind is to try your hardest to succeed in school. Make your parents proud even though they make you so mad at times. Also, do everything to the best of your ability no matter the situation because that thing which may seem small and insignificant might be something that helps you out later in life.

Finish these sentences…
I smile my biggest smile when… I am dancing
I get angry when… I don't excel in what I want to do
I often dream about… being an outstanding doctor
God is… my refuge and strength
The world would be a better place if… people would believe in themselves
My future looks…. bright

Spotlight on Kelli Ashley Armstrong

Kelli Ashley Armstrong is a nineteen year old future Environmental Engineer, currently in her last year in Chemistry programme at the College of the Bahamas. She enrolled in College of the Bahamas in August of 2006 after graduating with honours from Sunland Baptist Academy in June of 2006 with 7 B.J.Cs 7 B.G.C.S.Es and several academic awards and merits.

Kelli is a very industrious, ambitious and friendly young lady. She is a lover of music and plays several instruments. She started playing piano when she was only four years old and since then also started playing guitar and flute. For Kelli music is a way to escape when she’s feeling overwhelmed. This talented, musically inclined teen not only plays music but sings and writes music as well. Her pet peeve is, hearing more experienced people say, “the real world” when talking to high school students, as if they’re living in a fake one.

How is college life different from high school?
In college you really learn not only what it means to be independent, but responsible. Unlike high school, there is no one ‘running behind you’ telling you to go to class, or do your homework. So, with all the freedom I now have, I really have to use my time wisely. With so many other things going on around me, it is too easy to get distracted and fall behind.

Was it difficult to achieve the excellent grades you got in high school when you went to college?
Definitely! As the end of the semester approaches, the intensity of the work load steadily increases requiring more and more effort – which I wasn’t applying right away, so when I noticed that I was achieving mediocre grades, I knew I was capable of much better. Staying focused really isn’t easy. With the material I’m required to study it’s very easy to get overwhelmed but when I do I take a break and remind myself that whatever I’m doing today is necessary to get me where I want to be tomorrow.


How have you changed since you finished high school?
I’ve matured since high school. I’ve grown to be more responsible and independent and definitely more appreciative for my blessings as a result of what I’ve been exposed to since then.


What are some pressures that you have faced?
No matter where you go there is always peer pressure, but I can honestly say that peer pressure never really got the best of me. The things that everyone else was doing always really annoyed me because I support individuality. So I just encourage others to be themselves.

What are some of your hobbies?
Lately I’ve gotten into modeling. I’ve always loved going to the beach, and spending quality time with my family and friends, but I also enjoy my alone time which I often use to practice my music. I play several instruments, a few of which I own – a flute, a piano and a classical guitar.

How can young ladies like you make the world a better place?
I guess a good start would be starting with yourself, realizing that you can always be better person and work on those things to improve your whole being; and then, we can encourage others to do the same. The world needs change but changing the world starts with ourselves.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would cut my hair. My dad and my brother won’t let me. :)

Is there anyone in your life you can always count on?
Jesus never fails! My two favorite people on earth are my sister and my brother. Whenever I need something (which is often) I can always call on one or the other (or both) J

Where do you go or what do you do when you get really angry?
I try not to let things upset me because to me being angry is wasted energy that can be used for something more worth my time. But on the rare occasions that I do get really upset I scream in a pillow to let it all go.

Where do you want to be in five years?
If I’m done with university by then, I’d like to work with a few organizations like the Water and Sewage Corporation, the Solid Waste Management Development Company and the Ministry of Environment, to gain experience in my field then establish my own consulting firm.

What is the most important thing that you would like young ladies to remember about you after reading this article?
That I’m a young lady just like them and I’m driven, I hope that I inspire them to follow their dreams and persevere when the way is unclear!

A Conversation with Ms. Jeritzan Edwards-Outten

“Wow!” I thought, as I read the many accomplishments of the impressive lady featured in this issue of Girl Talk. How did she do it? Then I read further down and saw a piece of advice she received as a teenager… I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Consequently, with Christ as the head of her life Ms. Outten has certainly accomplished many things.

Ms. Jeritzan Edwards-Outten life and accomplishments are definitely too grand and numerous to fit between the pages of Girl Talk. However, I’m sure you’ll agree after reading the fraction that I manage to squeeze in that she is a woman who inspires.

Ms. Outten is an accomplished business woman and dedicated Christian and family oriented person. She is a native of Grand Bahama and the second of ten children. She enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading watching good movies, listening to good music and keeping physically fit.

Ms. Outten possesses a Bachelor’s Degree in Education & Public Relations and a Masters Degree in Human Resources and Management. She has a diversified employment history that spans several islands of the Bahamas. It includes being a secondary school teacher in both New Providence and Grand Bahama and serving as assistant Regional Director in the Grand Bahama Branch of the National Trust.

She has been employed with the Ministry of Tourism since 1981 and has worked in and managed most departments in the organization.

During her tenure at the Ministry of Tourism she has been responsible for opening and managing the first family island Tourism office in Andros and has worked in the Abaco Tourist office as director of Tourism for the Abacos. She currently is the Senior Director for the Grand Bahama and Northern Bahamas, Ministry of Tourism. You’ve probably seen her before on ZNS talking about the Grand Bahama tourism product, something she’s passionate about.

Although her job demands a lot of time and attention Ms. Outten finds time to do other things one of which is regularly teaching an adult Sunday school class where she seeks to encourage her students to dig deeper into God’s word and apply it to their lives.

What are you most passionate about? My relationship with God; my family and my career.

To who or what do you attribute your success? Great parenting, personal ambition and sound relationship with Almighty God.

How long have you been employed with the Ministry of Tourism? Since 1981

What are some of your duties? My general duties involve developing the local tourism product, public relation and promotional activities; ensuring that visitors to the destinations have an authentic and hospitable experience which leaves them with a desire to return and to recommend the destination. All areas are considered the product including: the Bahamian people and the level of service that they display along with information they are able to share and the attitude that is prevalent.

What do you love most about your job? I love most...positioning the island to be the best destination for visitors to travel to, which ensures a strong economy as 60 % of funds comes directly from Tourism. Also, empowering persons who work with me to excel.

What do you find most challenging? Finding the way to move people from old habits and motivating them to a new way of thinking and maintaining behaviour, positively.

What are some traits you think young ladies who are interested in working in the hospitality industry should possess? They should be enthusiastic, inquisitive, proactive and helpful, enjoy learning, and have a positive and pleasant demeanor. Enjoying being around people is important.

How have you overcome challenges that you encountered in getting to where you are now? Planning and setting goals were important and to be consistent in trying to attain even in the face of disappointment. Stop to reflect and learn from mistakes then keep on moving forward.)

Is the life you have now what you imagined as a teenager? Pretty much… I am very content and happy with what I have achieved…yet, I’m looking forward to future endeavors. Life has been very good and I am blessed!

What advice do you have for young ladies as they try to successfully navigate the teenage years? Put God first and plan their lives wisely

How would you describe yourself in one word? Why? (Optimistic) I believe that life is what we make it and we ought always to ‘work as if every thing depends on us and pray with the knowledge that everything depends on God’)

Spotlight on Chardonae Rose

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to leave your home, family, friends, everything you hold near and dear for one whole year? That sounds scary doesn’t it? What high school student does something like that? Well, this issue’s Spotlight Teen, eighteen year old, Miss Chardonae Rose did exactly that.

This former Jack Hayward High Head Girl after graduating in 2007 (with quite a few awards) spent a year in Ecuador as an exchange student, in essence doing twelfth grade a second time in a strange country.

Usted habla español? Well neither did Chadonae. In fact this daring young lady knew only basic Spanish going into this experience. But did she let a little thing like not being able to speak the language stop her? Not a chance. This former honor roll student was not going to let fear hold her back from the experience of a lifetime.

How were you selected for the exchange program? After going through the long application process, I had to wait to be called by Rotary for my interview which ended in "Chardonae you are a very impressive young lady."

How did your parents feel about you leaving home? At first they didn't want me to go until Mrs. Ward (my prefect advisor) convinced my mom to let me go since her daughter was recently on the same exchange program.

Were you studying Spanish before you went to Ecuador? I studied Spanish in Junior High but I only knew basic Spanish.

How long did it take you to become fluent in Spanish? It took about four months. (Only four months to become fluent in Spanish? WOW! You really are impressive)

What was your biggest fear going into this experience? Well, I didn't really fear anything I was just excited to get there and learn Spanish.

What was your most memorable moment? This question is so hard because my whole year was very memorable. I had many experiences with my Ecuadorian friends and family that it's so hard to say which one was my most memorable.

Was there a moment when you wanted to quit and return home? Well, in late November I got really homesick but I didn’t want to quit, I just wanted to go home for Christmas and return (even though I knew that wasn't allowed). After speaking to my Ecuadorian friends who kept encouraging me that I would be home in no time I felt better. Then on Christmas morning, I had a long talk with my mom and she made me feel better and I didn't feel home sick after that day.

How was the school environment different from that in the Bahamas? I went to a different type of school. In the Bahamas I went to a public school but in Ecuador, I went to a private military school. Every morning we had assembly and they revised our uniform. I loved my school a lot!!

How have you benefited from this experience? Well, I was given the opportunity to learn Spanish along with the opportunity to learn about Ecuador, its culture and its people. Now I have many homes that will welcome me whenever I decide to return. In fact, I would love to return in December. Also, I was given the opportunity to build close relationships with my exchange friends from all over the world.

What are some of your dreams/goals for the future now that you’re back home? I would like to study Environmental Science so that I can become an environmental specialist/research scientist. I am planning to go off to study in the USA or start here and go off later in January.

What advice do you have for young ladies who may be afraid to try new experiences? I would tell them that we only have 1 life to live so have fun and try it. Well, it all depends on what exactly it is. But, I do encourage young ladies as well as young guys to go out and get that international experience. I spoke to many people upon my return home and lots of people were like "Wow! I can't believe that you actually stayed in another country and lived with people that you don't know for a whole year." My whole experience was wonderful! I regret nothing about my exchange year thanks to the Rotary Club.

Girl Talk Magazine
Sept/Nov '08

Spotlight on DeAnthia Adderley

I pray for our Bahamaland to get back to the way it was because now-a-days I'm afraid to go out with my friends because you don’t know what to expect and what can happen. DeAnthia Adderley

What is something that you pray for often? This was one of my questions to this issue’s Spotlight Teen. Her answer shown above speaks of the type of person that this young lady is. Sixteen year old DeAnthia Adderley is a twelfth grader at Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy. She is known both for her helpfulness in the home and in her church. She is such an exemplary young lady that she has been chosen as Youth of the Year for two consecutive years at her church.

One of DeAnthia’s proudest moments was when she overheard one of the younger youths saying, “I would love to be the type of person that Dee is.” That simple comment encouraged DeAnthia to try to always set a good example because she is aware that there are young girls who look up to her as a role model.

DeAnthia has a proven track record for being a responsible young lady. She held the position as president of her school’s Junior Achievers program for one year and feels that her company has done very well under her leadership. This young lady is also very athletic and loves to play volleyball. She plays with a community night league as well as her school’s volleyball team.

Although DeAnthia is excited about her future and leaving high school she has one regret DeAnthia who fell short of the honor roll wishes she had placed more emphasis on excelling academically even as she focused on developing other areas. Her advice to young ladies about this very important area where she has fallen short is “remember that your teachers already have what you’re now trying to get. Don’t feel as if you are hurting them when you don’t do your best.”

In DeAnthia’s own words

What is something that has really impacted your life? That would probably be the death of my godfather. He was a person who had a smile on his face everyday. His passing made me realize that no one is going to be here forever and that we should make the best out of each day because we never know when it will be our last.

What are some of your dreams/goals for the future? After graduation I intend on finding a job, I will attend classes in the night and to get my Associates in Computer Information System and Business Management.

What will you remember most about high school? The things that I will remember the most about high school is the teachers that are dedicated and have a passion for teaching and would not give up until they know that you understand what is being taught to you, also, the guidance of my principle he talks to us as thought we were his own children, and oh, can’t forget those $4.00 lunches ☺.

What do you think contributes to young ladies not living up to their potential in high school? Some of the reason young girls may not live up to their potential in school may be that they’re too focused on their boyfriend, who is he talking to and wondering if the girl he’s talking to want to fight them because she likes him too. Also, some may be too busy trying to be the “boss of the class room.” If the teacher says something to them they show attitude because they want to show their friends that no one is going to boss them around.

What words of advice do you have for those young ladies you’re going to leave behind when you graduate this June? My advice to them is to stay focused in class. Every bit of information that the teacher is telling you grab on to it. Try not to get into trouble because like my principal tells us at every assembly, “You’re writing your transcript and no one want something bad on their transcript.” Also, be on you best behavior and follow the rules because what boss wants to employ a person with a bad attitude and no manners who doesn't follow the rules?

How would you describe yourself in one word? “Blessed" because every morning I can wake up with a roof over my head, a fan blowing breeze in my face and peaceful. I call myself blessed because I have two parents that love me and a family I wouldn’t give up for the world …”

What would you like young ladies to remember about you after reading this article? I would for them to remember that I kept my feeling as real as I could and that I spoke from my heart.

GT Jun/Aug '08

Spotlight on Jade Moses

What would make a teenager leave home to go to a place she’s never been before as a missionary?
This question came to mind the moment nineteen year old Jade Moses from Newnan, Georgia, told me that she was in the Bahamas for six months as a missionary. Jade became a Christian at the age of 16. According to Jade she was a rebel and hated the world. However after she became a Christian everything about her changed including some of her friends.

Jade graduated from high school in May 2006, however during her senior year she started studying Culinary Arts and graduated from West Central Technical College with a degree in Culinary Arts in October 2007. She plans to use those skills to assist her in working her way through college where she plans to get a degree in Counseling.

During her time here Jade rooms with another young woman twenty-six year old Lisa Patzer who has been here just a little longer than Jade. The two of them met only once before coming here but both felt that it was something God wanted them to do. Jade and Lisa work with several churches on the island assisting with Sunday school classes, cleaning, visiting people, praying, witnessing and generally showing the love of Jesus and helping in whatever capacity they can. Although Jade is here as a missionary she acknowledges that she has also grown in her walk with God due in part to Lisa’s influence.

One of the things that surprised Jade since she’s been here is the fact that many people here attend church regularly and are quite knowledgeable about the Bible but are not necessarily Christians. She had an opportunity to witness to and pray with a woman who according to Jade “knew the bible better than she did but was not saved.” Thankfully, she saw what she was missing by not having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

In Jade’s Own words
What part of being a missionary do you enjoy most? I enjoy meeting all the people and learning how they live. I also enjoy helping with the youths.

Do you find it difficult being away from your family and how do your parents feel about you being so far away from home? Yes it’s difficult, I miss my mom the most at time but talking about them and e-mailing them have helped me. My parents support me fully they tell me what I am doing is what God has planned for me.

Is your trip to the Bahamas what you expected? No, my expectations were very different I truly though you lived like I did but it so different from the states in how the people down here talk and how they raise their kids in the church.

What do you hope to gain personally from this experience? Confidence in who I am and who I am in God and the strength to stand up for what I believe in and to know what I believe is scriptural.
Who inspires you most in life and why?

I’m inspired by Lisa, she has had a very hard life and through it all she still thanks God everyday and tries to follow his word daily. Also, she has pushed me to read my Bible every day for an hour or more she has asked me about things that I believe and pointed where the are in the Bible. In fact, one of my goals in life is graduate college and be able to help people in their walk with God as Lisa has helped me.

Do you have any words of advice for young ladies who have not yet made Jesus their choice? It is hard for girls my age to have passion for things they can not see but when you choose to follow Jesus he will open your eyes to the love he has for you and his love will never leave you nor hurt you. Also, know who you don’t try to be what your friends want you to be. You are a true gift from God and he wants you to follow what he says and not what man says.

GT Magazine March/May 08

Spotlight on Aldeka LaRoda

“ I find that the center of my prayer life remains my request to allow my life not only to please God but to be established to its fullest potential in Him…”
Aldeka LaRoda

Miss Aldeka LaRoda is a 2004 honours graduate of Bishop Michael Eldon High School. She graduated, as you can see from the above summary, with an impressive academic resume. Since graduating she is two years into her bachelors degree in biochemistry, at College of the Bahamas and plans to transfer to another university to finish her degree. She has been accepted into several colleges and offered scholarships but has not decided which offer to accept yet.

Aldeka was involved in the CSM while in high school and a year ago became a part of a group that goes into the public high schools to witness to students and assist them with their CSM clubs. According to Aldeka, God is doing a work in the lives of the students and she’s humbled to be a part of it.

What impressed me most about this young lady was when I asked about dreams and her plans for accomplishing them. Aldeka was able to paint me a verbal picture of her future as per a fifteen year plan she had written out when she was in eighth grade. Somehow I think this young lady who puts Christ at the center of her dreams will see them come to pass.

In Aldeka's own words

Who inspires you most in life and why?
It may sound mundane but my mother Mrs. Jennie-mae Laroda inspired me most in life. She inspired me in the way she lived- peaceably with even her worst enemies. Besides all of these qualities she inspired me most in the way that she died. To die with such dignity made me truly realize what an amazing person she was. She had the perfect opportunity to curse God and die but she smiled and I could hear it through her groans “Though he slay me yet will I trust him.” Her life quickens my own day by day.

What’s your favorite high school memory?
Lunchtime was the noteworthy moment of each day. Yes of course the learning part was and remains essential but socially, lunchtime chats with the fellas’ was the high point of my days. Politics, religion, war, economics, family roles, married life, death, music, you name it, it was discussed with such fluency one would believe we were undercover philosophers.

What do you miss most about high school?
I miss the security of high school knowing that if you didn’t do it right, someone would correct it for you. After High school that security blanket doesn’t exist anymore. Don’t get me wrong I love independence and responsibility but who really wants to give up the carefree life of childhood?

Is life after high school the way you expected it to be?
Life after high school honestly is not as terrifying as I expected. I learned that although you gain responsibility, over your own life there are still people there to help you along the way whether it’s to get your books, buying an old buggie for you to get around or giving you a pocket full of change so you don’t starve to death- there is help!

Is there anyone in your life you can always count on?
I can always count on the Holy Spirit not to let me down but second to him is my sister Chakita. She has been the greatest support to me, rarely has she let me down. What I love about my sister is that even though she gets on my nerves, when I need her she tries her best to be there. I owe her much of my life.

What are some pressures or disappointments that you have faced as a young lady?
I have always been pressured to change who I am so that I wouldn’t stand out. I am weird and I celebrate it once I am in no contradiction to the word of God, I love being me.

If you had to describe yourself with one word, what word would you choose? Why?
DIVERSE.I think that I’m like a diamond, not because of its beauty but because of its many facets. I’m strange by design and my gift is having a relatable spirit. I can sit and chat amongst 40 year olds about Plato and Chopin, to 16 year olds about relationships and teenage stress, 13 year olds about the last episode of Ned’s declassified or 3 year olds about the blue choo choo train on Dora the explorer. (What a great gift!)

Where do you want to be in five years? Are you on the right path to getting there?
I wasn’t promised tomorrow but in five years I would like to be 5 years wiser, 5 years stronger and 15 years closer to God. I also desire to complete my degrees in Biomedical research (BA MS PHD). Yes I most definitely am in the right place…God’s hands. Where He leads I will follow and who can mess up when Perfection is leading the way? Not even a fool so I’m assured that as long as I stay willing and obedient I will eat the good of the land.

If you think that you, or someone you know, would make a good Spotlight Teen do drop me a line. P.O. Box F-43929, Freeport Bahamas or email keepingitrealgirltalk@hotmail.com

A Conversation with Pastor Beverly Archer

People may forget what you say and do but they will never forget how you made them feel.

Pastor Bev at a glance

Wife of:
Pastor Emmit Archer

Mother of:
Ashlea 17, Brittany 15, Joy 13 & Joshua 8

Church
Abaco Youth Ministry, Intl. Marsh Harbour Abaco

Employment
Administration, BEC (Bahamas Electricity Cooperation)
Marsh Harbour Abaco



I was seventeen years old, barely out of high school when I met this issue’s Woman of Worth, whom I knew as Sister Bev. During that meeting she had conversation with me about my plans for the future. I can’t remember every word she said to me but I know it encouraged and motivated me that she’d take the time to talk with me and pray for me.

After that meeting I didn’t see her again for many years but I often remembered her fondly. Then about four years ago I met a lady and her teen daughter at a Woman’s Conference and we started talking. When she introduced herself as Pastor Beverly Archer from Abaco, I had to find out if she was “my Sister Bev”. Indeed she was and I haven’t lost touch with her since. Her daughter Ashlea Archer was featured in the December 2004 issue of GT.

Pastor Bev has been a pastor for six years. I thought that she would be an excellent person to interview because as a mother of three teenage daughters and an eight-year-old son think she has much to share with mothers and daughters. (So girls, maybe you should let your mothers read this.)

From a mother's heart

What is the most difficult part of raising daughters?
I do not have any difficulties associated with raising our children. The moment I completely surrender any concern to God a successful answer faithfully arrives. If there is ever a problem, it’s with me. Whenever I lack patience with the children it’s a sure sign that I need to slow down and take what I call a GOD CHECK!!! (Meaning I take a step back-- to the Word of God and I pray).

Do you find it easy to communicate with girls?
Yes!

How do you foster that communication?
By regularly acknowledging that I do not have all the answers but I know “the God” who does. It’s incredibly easy to foster positive communication when you let God do the talking and when you don’t have the answers be honest and just admit it and simply say “Honey, I just don’t know the answer…let’s pray.” Most of the communications problems of the past with my children arose because I let pride get in the way and neglected to admit, “I just don’t know the answer”.

What do you love most about having daughters?
There is no one thing I love most about having my children. I love it all, even the days full of challenges, noise (typical in a family of six) etc. That’s not to say I have it all under control, there are days when I “freak right out” as my children say. My only options are prayer and seeking forgiveness!!! Sometimes I simply say to my children “I’m Sorry” because as I said, I do not have all the answers.

How do you handle the teenage mood swings?
The same way the children handle my trip out days/mood swings… prayer and retreating to our respective corners until someone is ready to talk like heaven is our destination!

What is one mistake you may have made in your life that you wouldn’t want your daughters to make?
I took far too long to acknowledge and respect the call of God upon my life. I forfeited many blessings because of disobedience to God. Never let God have to repeat Himself when calling you. After all, how ludicrous is that anyway? How can we out-think a King…the King of Kings and Lord of Lords…The maker and creator of all humanity? I think it is safe to say that He knows what He is doing and He knows the possibility of success for every request He has ever made of us.

Which life lesson do you often find yourself using in your talks with your daughters and other young ladies?
Never allow a bad experience to define who you are or turn you into that experience. For example, something horrible may have happened “to you” but it does not have the power to make the experience “become you”. You are what the Word declares. …fearfully and wonderfully made!

Finish the following sentences:

My daughters are diamonds whose value appreciates by the second.

I wish all mothers of teen daughters would capture and hold fast to the vision of Gods’ finished product not the daughter in process (or in the making).

My prayer for young ladies is that God’s daughters will get a TIGHT GRIP on the vision of GODS’ completed package not the journey. Trust me, the road traveled i.e. the hurts, pains, mistakes and disappointments have a marvelous way of preaching a fantastic sermon that will both save and transform lives by the untold millions.


Thank You Pastor Bev for sharing with us, and for graciously allowing me to interrupt your day.