Tag: life

The Power of Saying “NO”

by Sha Sha

NUH!

Lemme tell y’all straight “NO” is one of the most powerful words you can use. And guess what? You don’t need no long explanation after it. No is no. Done talk.

In school and outside, everybody’s quick to pressure you, “leh awe bun sumn, nah.” “Take a drink, nobody go know.”  Stop put the alcohol in dem Epicurean water bottle like crack man and come a school !!

And all them unnecessary fighting FOR WHATTT?? “Fight dem, don’t let dem diss you so!” But hear nah, all them same people hyping you up? When you get suspended, when you end up sick, or when things get outta hand? They’re gone! It’s you, yourself and your shadow alone lef’ with the consequences.

Peer pressure real bad. Some so-called friends, we call them “runaway when you in problem friends”…they will push you into smoking, drinking, or doing stupidness just to see you mess up. A real friend is not supposed to force you, they’re supposed to respect your choices.

Bullying and fighting? Waste of time. People only gather ‘round for drama like it’s some movie. They nah care if you buss up yuh face or mash up yourself. Sometimes the strongest move is to walk away, keep yuh pride, and show them you bigger than them.

And we have to talk about another serious part too, rape and sexual pressure. “NO” means no. Point blank. PERIOD. If somebody nah listen when you say no, the problem is them, not you. Nobody owns your body but you. Don’t ever feel guilty for standing firm because you owe nobody nothing.

End of the day, saying “no” doesn’t make you soft. It makes you wise. It shows you respect yourself and your future. Remember: one lil’ “yes” to the wrong thing could change your whole life. But one strong “NO”? That could save it.

So, the next time somebody tries to push you into vibes you know ain’t good, look at ‘em straight and say: “NUH!” Personally I like to bawl out to a trusted adult, “MISS MISS LOOK WHAT THEY TELL ME MISS” or “YA DIFF MAH SEH NUHHHH??” That’s strength. That’s power. And if they don’t like you and stop talking to you, then SO WHAT??

All jokes aside, you are entitled and obligated to say no to any situation that makes you uncomfortable.

If something has happened already, do not be scared to open your mouth and TELL.

(The Princess Margaret School has two amazing Guidance Counselors.)

Feel free to check them if something has happened or has started to happen.

That’s all folks and remember the word of the day, is ‘NUH’.

PMS Prize-Giving Awards 2025: A Night of Pride, Purpose, and Power

On Wednesday afternoon, charged with pride and celebration, the Princess Margaret School hosted its 2025 Prize-Giving Awards Ceremony—an unforgettable tribute to hard work, resilience, leadership, and the steady growth of its students. From start to finish, the evening shone with the brilliance of student achievement and the rich spirit of the PMS community.

The ceremony began with the strong, steady voice of our Principal, the esteemed Dr. Colin Greene, who delivered opening remarks that captured the heart of the school’s mission and the strength of its students. His words reminded us that excellence isn’t an accident—it’s a choice made day after day, challenge after challenge.

The first set of awards recognized the core values that shape Pridelands character. School counselors Miss T. King and Miss N. Edwards presented the Character Awards for Image, Discipline, Helpfulness, and Leadership—qualities that often go unseen but are the foundation of every success story.

Next came the academic backbone of the ceremony: the subject awards. Heads of Departments and subject teachers stepped forward to recognize the top-performing students in each subject area across every form level. Their applause, pride, and personal stories made it clear: these students didn’t just pass—they roared.

Then came one of the most spirited moments of the night: the presentation of the Spirit of PMS, PMS Ambassadors, Top Pan Man and Woman, and the Future Stars awards by none other than Mrs. Sharon Kelsick, former Vice Principal and a proud PMS alumna. The crowd erupted into laughter and cheers when Kadesh Joseph accepted an award while fully suited as the school mascot—a moment of light-hearted joy that captured the energy of the night perfectly.

The air itself seemed to hum with excitement, and the PMS Serenaders added melody to magic, entertaining the audience with the soothing, vibrant sounds of steel pan. Their performance reminded us all that excellence lives in both mind and music at PMS.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of Honour Roll, Principal’s List, and Academic Excellence Awards by Dr. Greene and Vice Principal Mrs. Lois Forbes, alongside special guest Mrs. Robyn Joseph Nathaniel, Vice Principal of the Antigua State College and a former teacher of PMS. Each name called was a reminder of the dedication and hours poured into reaching that level of distinction.

And just when the evening felt full, the PMS Dancers swept onto the stage with a graceful, energetic performance celebrating the beauty and culture of Antigua and Barbuda. Their movement spoke of pride—national and personal.

Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: the announcement of the Students of the Year at each form level. The audience listened closely as profiles were read, capturing each student’s journey, spirit, and impact. When the names were revealed, the applause was deafening:

1st Form

  • Christopher James
  • Shamya Gayle
  • Acajah Richardson – Winner

2nd Form

  • Kadesh Charles
  • Makayla Scott – Winner
  • Peyton Michael

3rd Form

  • Abigail Rojas – Winner
  • Jahshaya Nibbs
  • Lily Francois

4th Form

  • Micaiah Forbes – Winner
  • Denesha Joseph
  • Kefira Boucher

Each winner was met with cheers and admiration, and then serenaded by Mr. Alvin Livingstone, our multi-talented visual arts teacher whose vocal tribute gave the night an added personal touch.

But the crowning moment—the one we will all remember—was the announcement of the Overall Student of the Year: Micaiah Forbes. When Dr. Greene made the declaration, the room erupted, bursting into applause. Four years in a row. Never before in PMS history has a student claimed that title for every form year. Micaiah’s consistency, drive, and humility stand as a shining example for every student who walks these halls.

As the school continues to mark its 70th year, the 2025 Prize-Giving Ceremony was more than a celebration. It was a statement. The students of PMS are thriving. They are strong, kind, focused, and ready for the future. And if last night proved anything—it’s that the Pridelands spirit isn’t just alive. It’s unstoppable.

Here’s to 70 years of excellence—and to the students who are just getting started

The Tea: Fingers Crossed

by Liz Anya

Hey cubs.

This week, we officially waved goodbye to our fifth formers as we barrel towards exam season. Meanwhile, the pride lands have suddenly become a ghost town, while the buzz around the latest lime is reaching a fever pitch!
Yup, it’s that time of the year again, folks. The pressure’s mounting, the textbooks are gathering dust, and somehow, the details of last weekend’s “Raft Up” seem way clearer than the intricacies of photosynthesis. We’re masters of the social calendar, knowing exactly who’s wearing what to prom, but when it comes to simple reading and arithmetic? Crickets.


Look, I get it. Hanging out with friends, making memories…that’s a vital part of the school experience. But let’s be real, those grades aren’t going to magically appear.
So, as the exam clock ticks down, maybe let’s try a little shift in focus. Just a nudge. Perhaps swap one late-night chat for a quick review session. Maybe skim a chapter before scrolling through the latest social media feed. Even a little bit of focus effort now, can save us from some serious stress later.

Catch you next time.