“Giving is a reflection of who we are.” 

That sentiment is reflected in the story of Devontae G., a student at Christel House Jamaica whose compassion and generosity have touched both his school and community. 

Devontae was a recipient of the Good Character Award last school year, an honour that reflects the Christel House student values he consistently demonstrates. These values became especially evident after Hurricane Melissa. 

“When I was at home and Hurricane Melissa was passing, I was in my room and then I saw my mom on TikTok watching a guy in Westmoreland in need, and I realized my family was in Westmoreland, so I started to raise funds to help people in need because we should help people as Jamaicans.” 

Moved by what he saw, Devontae decided to take action. At just 10 years old, he independently started a small fundraising effort. Devontae raised almost JMD $10,000, along with clothing and shoes. His grandmother and other family members took the donations to Westmoreland to be distributed to those in need. 

More recently, Devontae also saved for, and donated a pair of school shoes to a fellow student at the start of the school year. 

Devontae has been a student at Christel House Jamaica for five years and describes it as the best school ever. Devontae admits he wasn’t doing well academically in grade 2, but with the help of his Grade 3 teacher, Ms. McDonald, he improved. “I think she has the experience to help students who don’t trust in themselves to start working and get better grades, but it’s not about the grade, it’s about the work they put into it.” 

At home, Devontae says his mother and grandmother play a major role in keeping him encouraged. “Mommy is a very hard worker and she helps me when I feel down. She helps me with my work and helps me understand that outside is not a safe place.” He also looks up to his dad, Richard Goulbourne. 

His mother Kerry-Ann Brown shared that she’s seen significant changes in her son. “He’s become a very outspoken person, intelligent child, loving, sharing and honest. In his academics he’s improved a lot as well, and I’m very proud of him.” She also spoke proudly of his generosity and the effort she puts into raising her children. 

“Me step by step wid him, toe to toe, make sure him go school on time, clean, homework do. When him come home a daytime, I say, ‘Come here Devontae, what did you learn today? Come teach me.’” 

Kerry-Ann added that she closely monitors his environment and influences. 

“I don’t allow him on social media either and he’s mostly inside watching Albert Einstein and documentaries. I grow him to listen when I talk and to grow with a lot of respect.” She is “very appreciative of the school, love the school. Sometimes the school even push out even more than us parents. They’ve done a lot for the kids—a lot of kids.” 

At school, Devontae says he feels safe and supported. “I feel at home at school because I have a lot of kind adults around me to help me with my school work or help me feel better.” 

Devontae is now part of student leadership as a sub-prefect and has clear goals for the future. “I want to become a soldier. I want to be able to fight for my country.”