Pamela Lowe Chang - Alpha woman of excellence

Shanica Blair, Gleaner Writer

Being around her for just a few minutes, it's hard not to feel the warmth, charm and character emanating from Pamela Lowe Chang. She loves to feed people and put a smile on their faces, she tells Outlook.

Lowe Chang is the 2013 recipient of the Alpha Alumnae Association's Woman of Excellence Award for outstanding contribution to her alma mater and the wider community.

A 1968 graduate of the Convent of Mercy academy, Lowe Chang says she is elated, humbled and honoured to be this year's recipient. "It is because of my good work over the years, and I am grateful," she said.

Lowe Chang will receive her award at the alumnae's annual awards banquet to be held at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel on Friday, October 25.

"This is always a proud moment for us when we get the opportunity to honour one of our own who has selflessly given back to her alma mater and has demonstrated public/civic mindedness through humanitarian activities in the wider communities," notes the president of the Jamaica chapter, Anna Thwaites-Wallace,

'A fine example'

She describes Lowe Chang as, "a fine example of the tradition of compassion and selflessness which was taught by the Sisters of Mercy. These values were instilled in her while she was a student at the academy. I was a part of the Solidarity and McCauley Circle groups where we were encouraged from the start to always give back."

Lowe Chang acknowledge that the academy "encourages one to always respect and treat people well, no matter age, race or class. I enjoyed my time there with the sisters giving back and giving to the poor and needy." She added, "I enjoyed my time there. I enjoyed looking forward to my lunch breaks with my friends and stoning the mango trees," she added with a chuckle.

"School life was so different back in the days, though," she mused. "There was a lot more respect for teachers and people in authority."

The owner and operator of the TMP Self Serve Supermarket in Annotto Bay for over 35 years, Lowe Chang is well known for her generosity in helping to bring people together, raising financial assistance for persons in need, as well as organising treats for children in and around her community. "I am always trying to seek ways to help out my fellow men," she states simply.

Well known and appreciated for her work in community development, Lowe Chang was honoured by the town for bringing the business people together.

A recently installed justice of the peace, Lowe Chang says that to be awarded has propelled her to continue living her life by giving back as a true alumna of the Convent of Mercy Academy. "I just want to encourage current students that it is important to play a role in society by giving back to their communities," she adds.