The Enis Adams Primary School's Hawks Dance Club will depart the Territory on Saturday, July 14 as part of an experience of a lifetime to participate in a cultural exchange between the Virgin Islands and Hertfordshire County ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

According to GIS, the group will be accompanied by Principal Mrs. Carleen Simmonds-Parsons and PTA President Mrs. Carlene Herbert. The group includes a representation of six students namely, Khalifa Turnbull, Demoi Morton, Jovelle Allen, Mateo Parsons, Yanira Romney and Kwayne Francis who will perform at different venues in London.

Enis Adams Primary School Hawks Dance Club performing during the press conference on July 9.

Photo Credit: BVIOC/Ms. Sofia Fay

Enis Adams Primary School Hawks Dance Club performing during the press conference on July 9.

Photo Credit: BVIOC/Ms. Sofia Fay

Scheduled performances will be held on July 17 at the BVI London House, July 19 at the City of Aston Reception, July 23 at a Rotary Club Reception and on July 24th at the Arts and Culture Exhibition at the BVI London House. While in the UK, the students and chaperones will be hosted by families in Aston Village, Hertfordshire.

Minister for Education and Culture Hon. Myron Walwyn at a press conference to announce the event on July 9, said through the talents of the dance club, people on the other side of the pond, and around the world will have the opportunity to witness aspects of the Virgin Islands cultural heritage on a world stage.

"Such a display will only serve to build our relationship in culture and sports as this exchange stands as a sign of international exchange and cooperation," Minister Walwyn stated.

Speaking directly to the students, Minister Walwyn said, "The experience you are about to embark on should allow you to appreciate the unique heritage of Virgin Islanders."

Minister Walwyn continued, "As you proudly display this heritage, I want you to remember that you are ambassadors for our territory and I know that you will make all of us very proud."

Governor Boyd McCleary recognized the significance of the cultural exchange as it relates to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Virgin Islands and Hertfordshire County Council. He went on to commend the students for their efforts and highlighted their role in the London 2012 legacy - an element that is an important aspect of all Olympic Games.

The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) initiated the conversations with the BVI London Office and the Ministry of Education and Culture which led to the cultural exchange.

President of the BVIOC, Mr. Ephraim E. Penn said "The Olympic Games bring nations together to celebrate Olympism and the Olympic Values of Respect, Excellence and Friendship".

"It is in this spirit of sharing of cultures, building new friendships and nurturing respect through education that we felt if fitting to put these elements together in a practical way and suggest that our young citizens share in the London 2012 experience," Penn stated.

Cleave Farrington, Executive Director of the BVIOC, chaired the press conference and read a letter of support from the Director of the BVI London House, Mr. Kedrick Malone noting the role of Mrs Shirley Parker, the BVI´s Olympic delegation attaché in coordinating the exchange in Hertfordshire County, Aston Village.

Principal Parsons of Enis Adams Primary School also delivered remarks.

The group returns on Thursday, July 26.