Youth Focus - André Cleghorn: epitome of excellence

WESTERN BUREAU:

Undaunted by the stigma associated with one of Montego Bay's notoriously violent communities, and fuelled by the need to be a shining example for young men in his area, André Cleghorn is the epitome of excellence.

The 20-year-old resident of Canterbury has not allowed where he comes from to dictate his performance in academia at Montego Bay Community College (MBCC), while trying to make a difference within his community.

"I come from a family of about seven, and I am the only one who has reached this level in education, so in addition to doing it for me, I am also doing it for them," the outspoken college student explained.

"I don't look at what is going on around the community. I am focused on making a difference, being the difference, and showing people that it can be done."

Cleghorn is currently pursing his bachelor of science in business administration. He is a Christian, youth evangelist, and peer counsellor. He recently received the MBCC's Student of the Year award and The Chairman's Award for Excellence in Leadership.

Active student

It was no surprise how he came to win both of these coveted awards this year as Cleghorn is involved in nine clubs at school. He is a member of Circle K International, the students' council, the peer council, the school band, the University College and Christian Fellowship, and the University and College Apostolic Movement. In addition, he plays badminton, volleyball, and table tennis.

He also made the principal's honour roll in 2010. He received a citation for service to community in 2008 from the Montego Bay Prayer Breakfast Group.

"Not many people know this, but I also have to attribute my success to Fiona Morris, retired principal of Chetwood Primary. She really set the foundation for my education and helped to groom me into the young man I am today," he said with great humility.

He considers himself the backbone of his family and added that in trying to advance himself through education, he also tries to impart whatever he has learnt to his relatives, and even members of the community.

"People in the community really respect and look up to me as a college youth because I am respectful and helpful, especially with senior citizens," the Cornwall College past student said.

"I do outreach programmes such as helping the elderly and disabled with chores and feeding them, assisting with different errands, conducting homework sessions for children in the primary and high schools who are having difficulties in their studies, [and] helping young men get back into schools."