Members at Closing Business Session immediately after the President’s Banquet

In addition to shopping and visits to theme parks, the young Optimists adhered to a packed agenda filled with workshops, business meetings, group meals and pool parties. They also experienced the election process (including lobbying, meeting and greeting the candidates, listening to campaign speeches and ultimately voting) as the youngsters selected their executive board to serve in the upcoming Optimist year. They also enjoyed the presidents' banquet and a talent show, where JOOI Lieutenant Governor-Elect Cordane Richardson of the ‘Kids for the Future JOOI Club’ held his audience spellbound with his awe-inspiring rendition of ‘Too Late to Apologise’ by One Republic.

Anguillian Optimists Jameisha, Ianisha and Meesha in a group rap session

Workshops included training in such topics as ‘The Leadership Secrets of Santa Clause’, 'What does it mean to be an International JOOI Officer?'; 'The Power to Persuade'; ‘Teamwork’ and ' Life in a nutshell', among others. All the young Optimists were kept very busy and agreed that the workshops and general sessions were valuable and worthwhile educational and social experiences. The group’s service activity was the donation of school supplies (money was collected before and during the convention to purchase the items) which were packed into 150 backpacks for needy kindergarten children.

Anguillian delegation with members of board of Optimist International

Optimist Brendon Jeffers said 'I really enjoy being a Junior Optimist and the convention was a lot of fun...a really great experience'. He went on, 'one day I would like to serve on the International Board!' The Junior Optimist Clubs of Anguilla take this opportunity to once again thank the many many persons whose generous donations and assistance made their attendance to the convention possible. It was a money and energy well spent on grooming and shaping tomorrow’s leaders.