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Oct 12, 2006

FirstCaribbean honours unsung heroes

Story PictureIt’s a Caribbean wide competition that seeks to recognise the most positive contributions to societies that all too often are caught up in negativity. This afternoon I was on hand to meet two Belizeans who are following a proud tradition of excellence.

Jacqueline Godwin, Reporting
The first recipient, Doctor Leslie Mendez in the past thirteen years has not only been providing medical services to the people of the North but has provided a shelter for abandoned children and single mothers. Today she was honoured for her unselfish work in the FirstCaribbean International Bank?s Unsung Heroes Programme.

Dra. Leslie Mendez, Awardee
?What should I say to you? Should I quote an extraordinary life, a wonderful life or should I tell you about my sacrifices and sufferings or maybe portray myself as a very special person, but in truth I can?t say anything like that. For me it has been a pleasure to be with these children, our children, our Belizean children, and it has been enlightening. It has enhanced my life everyday sharing with people.?

The second recipient, Hector Romero is the President of the Parents Association for Children with Special Needs, PACSN which works to improve the quality of life for children living with all forms of disabilities. Romero has assisted over one hundred families in getting the resources they need to help improve their sons and daughters lives.

Hector Romero, Awardee, President, PACSN
?I personally am not a hero. I just live to help others without taking anything in return. All my members can tell you that. I am always there to help each other.?

Mendez and Romero were chosen out of a total of eighteen candidates. Both of these local unsung heroes were awarded with plaques gifts and a contribution of tent thousand dollars each. The money will be used to help fund their projects. According to the bank?s Albert Street branch manager Shaeleen Castillo the project was launched to honour ordinary people who are making a difference in their communities.

Shaeleen Castillo, Branch Manager, FirstCaribbean Bank
?The mission of this programme is to enlighten and inspire Caribbean people of all ages. In a world that is filled with war, conflict and turmoil our region needs messages of hope and courage. We all have the potential to overcome great obstacles and to achieve our dreams, but it is through following in the footsteps of our heroes that we recognize and realize that potential.?

Mendez and Romero now go onto compete in the regional Unsung Heroes Competition in which seventeen countries will participate.
Believe it or not, since its inception in 2003, a Belizean has taken the top regional award for the three years in succession.


Viewers please note: This Internet newscast is a verbatim transcript of our evening television newscast. Where speakers use Kriol, we attempt to faithfully reproduce the quotes using a standard spelling system.

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