The psychology major from the School of Arts and Sciences earned her right to represent Grenada and St. George’s University after her essay was selected as the winning essay from Grenada. The national winners were eligible to participate in a youth conference which was part of the 20^th ACTI conference held in Tortola from 17^th- 19^th November. Commenting on what it was like for her, Jonella shared, “At first, just the fact that my essay was selected as the winning entry was a humbling experience for me. I felt like I had a great responsibility on my shoulders… I was not only going as an SGU student but as a national ambassador.”

In a workshop setting, students were divided into groups to carry out a PIN analysis of an issue or problem of common concern throughout the region. This involved identifying a specific problem, describing the surrounding issues involved and establishing what needed to be done in resolving or minimizing its occurrence. A highlight of the conference was a panel discussion on the final day where the group leaders presented their findings. It also included a question and answer segment which sought to engage the audience in a healthy debate on issues of common concern throughout the region.

Jonella ably presented on her group’s behalf. She related, “I was able to present well and from all indications, faculty representatives included, I did an excellent job; especially at the question and answer section of the presentation which was my favorite part. I was asked to convey to the University that they were well pleased with my performance at the conference and that I should come again.” Therefore, it was not very surprising when it was finally announced that Jonella’s essay was the winning essay of the competition. In addition to having her essay published in ACTI’s newsletter, Jonella’s prize package included an ipod nano (6^th generation) and a bursary which she hopes to be able to use towards her post graduate studies. She would like to specialize in cognitive development.

Senior Associate Dean and university representative for ACTI conferences, Dr. Antonia MacDonald noted, "Student involvement in such conferences and similar activities augurs well for the university since it increases our visibility in the region and contributes to student development. We are very proud of Jonella and it is my hope that her success would motivate many more students to avail themselves of opportunities to be ambassadors for the university and Grenada." Looking back on the experience Jonella observed, “It was an excellent experience. I would encourage every student to participate not only to bring recognition to the school but it helps with personal development also. The speakers at the conference were eloquent and their messages very inspirational. There was a renewing of my spirit, I was able to look deep within… be able to find a reason for my tertiary education…not only to make a contribution to society but to realise also that I, like any other student, have the capacity to lead, to be a leader.”