Development planner Wilfred Nembhard was on Thursday (September 23) installed as the new Custos for St. Elizabeth.
Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, presided over the installation ceremony, which was held at Independence Park in Black River.
Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Senator the Hon. Dorothy Lightbourne, lauded the new Custos.
She expressed confidence that he would serve his parish well given his strong history of voluntarism and his association with civic groups.
“I am confident that your extensive work in community development, not only qualifies you for this office, but creates a foundation upon which you will continue to build. I am assured that you will remain devoted to St. Elizabeth and its growth as a parish. I feel confident that as first citizen of St. Elizabeth, you will continue to uphold and promote the tradition of strong community involvement,” she stated.
Custos Nembhard, who has served the parish as Justice of the Peace (JP) for 32 years, pledged “to serve all citizens in the communities in the best way I can”.
“I promise to keep an open mind and I will live up to the high tenets of the office. I am acutely aware of the high level of trust that has been reposed in the office of Custos,” he stated.
He said he strongly believes in voluntary social service and giving back to one’s community and country. “As I give myself, I realize that I too, have benefited from the cross fertilization of ideas. I find among my souvenirs, the warmth of my people and the love of my parish,” he stated.
He also expressed gratitude to his family, noting that the support of loved ones “have always kept me going”.
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Custos Nembhard recently completed a doctorate in leadership development.
He was a recipient of the 2005 Governor-General’s Achievement Award, which recognises persons from humble origins, who have excelled and are providing worthwhile and outstanding service to their communities.