Jenny Chiquot Louisy

Tell us about yourself.

"I would describe myself as a hardworking, energetic, driven, fun and sociable person. I am a teacher by profession, specializing in Mathematics.

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In my school life, I first attended Laborie Infant and Primary, then succeeded to Piaye Secondary (2002-2007) and VFCSS A’ Level Department (2007-2009). My first place of employment was at the Laborie Cooperative Credit Union (2009 – 2010) where I learnt ample about work ethic and finances. Then, from 2010, I’ve been teaching at the Choiseul Secondary School, which I love. In 2011 -2013, I attended Teacher’s College; specializing in Mathematics and English. In 2014 - 2017, I then attended the UWI Open Campus where I studied the Bachelor of Education Programme in Secondary Mathematics, graduating with First Class Honours.

 

My hobbies include face painting, adventures, event planning and socializing with young people of all ages."

 

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When and why did you start activism for the youth?

"I have been involved in youth activism for multiple years, however, given the responsibility of President of the Laborie Youth and Sports Council in 2019, I developed a true passion. There was a need to put structure into youth and sports development in our community, for this reason, a new approach of youth leading youth was adopted. I knew that it would be a challenge, however my love for community and its people motivated me whenever I thought things were getting too difficult."

 

 

What made you interested in helping the youth?

"I have a love and passion for children. It gives me great joy to make them smile in any way possible. For this reason, my goal is to see the youth of my community happy and thriving in all aspects of their life.

 

Growing up, I have witnessed so many youth who simply gave up on achieving their dreams and by extension, life itself. They settled, they continued the family poverty cycle, there was no progress. I got tired of seeing youth on the wayside who were not encouraged or motivated on a daily. So I decided to play my part to encourage them in whatever way possible. Something as small as a smile or a thumbs up or a “keep your head up!! You’ve got this!” goes a long way. I can surely attest to that. So many young persons have thanked me for just acknowledging them even when they felt invisible. I do not want our youth to feel like we don’t see them.

 

Additionally, I have always been motivated by community activists, who continuously encourage us to do better despite our circumstances. I would like to take up this mantle and carry this legacy with the younger ones who look up to me."

 

 

Tell us some of your achievements/active roles in society.

“I am huge advocate for volunteerism, culture, youth development and advocacy. As a result, I am the President of the Laborie Youth and Sports Council, Assistant General Secretary of the St. Lucia National Youth Council, a member of Rotary Satellite club of Gros-Islet, Laborie Development Foundation and the Laborie Disaster Preparedness Committee, among other things.

 

As President of the Laborie Youth and Sports Council, my team and I have focused the agenda into a more holistic one, encouraging the positive development of youth in all aspects of life, inclusive of relationships, economics and finances in preparation for life.

 

Overall, my team and I are dedicated to the development of my community. Our work in youth advocacy and community have been enriched by our exemplary ability to solve problems and to instinctively lead the actions of others to make a positive difference in the community and personal lives. This, we are truly proud of.”

 

 

What are some of the challenges you're faced?

“Some of my challenges include time management, getting additional volunteers for certain projects and financing for projects which we wish to undertake.”

 

 

How do you juggle your youth activism and being a full time teacher?

“I have adapted and structured my life so that sufficient time is vested in youth work. I must admit that it wasn’t easy. However, having a strong support system is key. That includes family and friends who understand your passion and keep you motivated. I have learnt that youth work is not a one-man show. I work with a great team including the Youth Worker for Laborie; Mrs. Makeva Anthony, and other members of LYSC; Tedley Cotter, Carina Snagg, Kaysia Verneuil, Sherri Charles, Manda Simon, Christopher Chicot. My mother, Jenifa Chicot, is my rock. She keeps me grounded in everything I do.”

 

 

Do you have any future plans for your youth activism?

“Yes, I do. I would like to continue working feverishly to encourage the youth of my community be the best version of self. I would like them to be equipped with the necessary skills and provide opportunities which enables positive growth. Thus, by providing such avenues as often as possible for this to be achieved.

 

Additionally, I would like to encourage younger persons to step up in leadership roles in my community.”

 

 

Any words of advice or encouragement for the youth?

“My words are rather simple; in whatever you wish to accomplish in life, don’t back down or give up! I know what it is like to feel like giving up, but if it is something that would positively impact your live, don’t back down ever!! Cry or scream if you must, but always get back to the drawing board and re-strategize.

 

There is a saying; ‘The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit.’ This is something I remind myself of every time I feel like giving up. So, I advise all youth to be patient with your growth. But in being patient, you need to put in the work, so that you may reap the fruit which is your success.

 

Additionally, I encourage you to deliberately plan for your future and set personal goals. PLAN A, PLAN B, PLAN C…. Just plan. Set your goals. Don’t live life blindly.”