MONTEGO BAY, St James — Ten past students of the Montego Bay High School for Girls who have been trailblazers among the school’s alumnae have been given the recognition they deserve. Among them was Barbara Smith, the institution’s first Jamaican principal and mother of late songbird Karen Smith who was also remembered with a musical tribute.

“It’s nice to be recognised because I was working, not for it but I did my best — and it’s good to see that my best was appreciated. I really had a good time at MoBay High as a past student. I was principal for nearly 19 years and I’m glad that my efforts were well rewarded,” said Barbara Smith.

She was speaking with the Jamaica Observer during the Wonderful Women of Worth (WWOW) Fundraising Concert held last Saturday at Iberostar Hotel.

After a two-year hiatus because of COVID-19, the event was well received.

“This year we decided to create an award for those past members of the association that have contributed significantly over the years,” president of the Montego Bay High School Past Students’ Association (MBHSPSA) Montego Bay Chapter, Jo-Dane Russell Guerra explained.

The MBHSPSA is a non-profit organisation that works towards the continued growth of the school, its stakeholders, and the surrounding community.

Among those recognised on Saturday were founding members of the association Elaine Somerville, Pauline Chambers, Vilma Bailey-Haye and Marguerite Vernon. Marjorie Morgan and Glorene Perry who helped to craft its constitution were also singled out for awards.

Sisters Shauna Shelton-Webster and Leslie Shelton-Senior, along with Sharon Cunningham-Moore who now teaches at the school, rounded out the awardees.

Russell Guerra explained that selections were made based on members’ level of participation and contribution, their “years of service and the level of service” provided.

Funds raised from the event will be pumped back into helping the students and the school.