Transforming Dreams into Goals was the focus of Thursday morning’s presentation by visiting speakers JD Scott and Annalee Belle.
Students from the fourth and fifth forms of the Montserrat Secondary School and some from the Community College attended the one-hour chat given by the guests who are on island at the invitation of the Alliouagana Festival of the Word (#AFWLitFest).
The 8th edition of the literary festival began today and runs until Sunday, November 13.
JD Scott is the elder brother of the Scott Twins, of the HGTV Property Brothers show. He is also a TV host, writer and popular web personality. His girlfriend Annalee Belle, is a model and celebrity makeup artist with over one million fans on various social media platforms.
The pair shared their experiences of pursuing their dreams and the challenges that they overcame. They said that it was important for each student to write down a plan of their goals, even if they may need to deviate from it. Both Scott and Belle said it was good practice to find a mentor who is willing to invest time and help them achieve their goals in their area of interest.
The need to evolve and stretch as you mature was stressed, and the importance of giving back. “It doesn’t have to take a lot of your time or money but you have to give back. Not only to those who may have helped you but others who can’t. Animals, nature…whatever is your passion. Find a way to give to the less fortunate,” Belle told the students.
Using examples of various celebrities, the couple showed why staying humble and true to who you are was necessary.
Following the presentation, they hung around to answer questions and to exchange social media handles as both are very active online.
Technology and the Word: Contemporary Manifestations is the theme of the 2016 Alliouagana Festival of the Word (AFW). The main activities will take place at the Montserrat Cultural Centre. View the full schedule of activities on www.litfest.ms and www.discovermni.com. Follow updates on Montserrat’s only literary festival at https://www.facebook.com/AFWLitFest/
