Jaleel Fernando Cameron an 11-year old student of the St. Georges Primary School will be the first to hoist the Commonwealth Flag when the Territory participates in its inaugural observance for the Fly-a-Flag for the Commonwealth initiative.

Jaleel was selected in recognition of his efforts to raise funds for the Children Unit at the new Peebles Hospital. 

Co-chair of the Fly-a-Flag for the Commonwealth Steering committee Mr. Vincent Wheatley said, “It is important for us to recognise the valiant efforts in our young people and encourage them to contribute to the society.  Jaleel has done a remarkable job raising funds on his own towards a worthy cause and the committee wishes to highlight his spirited endeavor and help him achieve his goal.”

The 11-year old is very active in the St. Georges Anglican Church and excels academically at his studies.  He has been inducted into the National Elementary Honor Society, is a member of the Early Act Club of the St. Georges Primary School and is a volunteer member of the BVI Junior Red Cross. He is also a member of the National Boys Choir and a member of God's Treasures, a programme offered by the Anglican Church for youth. 

As a student of Harrigan's Music School, he is mastering the piano and hopes to be his church’s organist one day. His interests and hobbies stem from studying the word of God, playing music, dancing, singing, gaming and investigating cars and the way they work.  He has been described as wise beyond his years and is always willing to help.

Jaleel will be among Heads of State, Prime Ministers, Lord Mayors; sea, army and air cadets; charities and community groups and many others around the world who will join to raise more than 730 Commonwealth Flags on Commonwealth Day in a shared celebration of a family of nations that encompasses the globe.

The Flay a Flag for the Commonwealth initiative, now in its second year, is catching the imagination of thousands of participants from all walks of life, inspiring them to join with others throughout the Commonwealth. As a collective public expression of commitment to the Commonwealth, it enables participants to show appreciation for the values the Commonwealth upholds, and the opportunities offered for friendship and cooperation with fellow Commonwealth citizens around the world.

The Government of the Virgin Islands under the auspices of the Office of the Deputy Governor is spearheading the local celebration.  All are invited to this historic event, which will commence with a procession from the Sir Olva George’s Plaza to the Central Administration Complex on Monday, March 9 at 9:00 a.m.

Commonwealth Day 2015 will be observed under the theme, “A Young Commonwealth”.