Carol Aina’s village means everything to her. This was clear on National Heroes’ Day when the Norman Manley Law School principal was conferred with an Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander.

At the celebratory reception hosted at the Mona Visitors’ Lodge, Aina’s village, comprised of family, notable former students, supportive colleagues, and very close friends, showed up to cheer her on.

Born Olubanke Adenike Carol Aina, the legal whiz was born in England but grew up in Manchioneal, Portland. She attended Manchioneal Primary School, Happy Grove High School and Excelsior High School before returning to England in 1977.

There she spent 20 years building an arsenal of legal knowledge before returning to Jamaica to give back to her people, and her village.

Throughout the many toasts, including a video tribute by the Baroness Scotland of Asthal Patricia Janet Scotland, one thing was clear: Aina is selfless and always prioritises the needs of her village.

As Friday Social moved throughout the event, the consensus was that Aina has greatly impacted many lives.

Each guest was happy for her and shared in the achievement. Aina is as equally brilliant as she is graceful — watching her work a room is fascinating.

Hearing her credentials and the endorsement given by legal peers and ministers of government, it is no surprise that the nation recognised Aina for her outstanding contribution to law and legal education.