Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!
Meet Ibrahim Duffus
A spirit of triumphant resilience
Sharing Is Caring! Share this awesome content with your friends now.
New! See the real Jamaica in VIDEOS!
Click Here and see why over 140,000 fans are raving about my YouTube Channel!
By Wellesley Gayle
I was awed by his grit and determination ! This young man, Ibrahim Duffus, overcame personal challenges such as seizure, autism spectrum disorder and developmental delay to, in my opinion, be the epitome of triumphant resilience and dedication for our youth.
New! Take a piece of Jamaica with you💃!
Savour the memories! Now you can get your authentic Jamaican souvenir items, as well as traditional Jamaican herbs, spices and housewares on our popular e-store. Click Here to learn more.
And, if you ever need a trustworthy and knowledgeable local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!
I had the honor of meeting him at Kings House recently. He was one of the recipients of the prestigious Governor General's Award for excellence.
I can say a lot, but I'd rather have you read the citation that was read for him. Here is it...
Mr. lbrahim Duffus embodies the spirit of triumphant resilience, defying considerable odds throughout his journey.
By overcoming personal challenges such as seizure, autism spectrum disorder and developmental delay, his life has been a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and dedication.
He was raised in an economically disadvantaged family with parents who fervently instilled in him the transformative power of education.
Unleashing his academic prowess, lbrahim gained a distinguished spot at Wolmer's High School for Boys, where he was recognized as the top performer in his year group.
His scholastic achievements were truly exemplary, as he secured 9 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects all with grade ones
nd distinctions. His momentum didnt falter in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiencv
Eyamination (CAPE), as he continued his Streak by earning 10 grade ones with
distinctions and one grade 2.
Leadership roles fell naturally to him as he served as a Prefect, then as Assistant Senior Prefect at Wolmer's High School, mentoring younger students. As Secretary of the Environmental Club, he promoted healthy eating habits through fruit sales initiatives.
After sixth form, Mr. Duffus took a constructive gap year to launch a Peer-Tutoring Programme for students preparing for external exams in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics. This endeavour amplified the academic success of many, inspiring him to continue his volunteerism in tutoring throughout his tertiary education.
In 2021, Mr. Duffus enrolled at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, where he pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Natural Sciences. His outstanding academic performance won him the title of Top 2021 UWI Matriculant, which saw him being awarded the prestigious UWI Open Full Scholarship.
During this time, Ibrahim Suffered the tragic loss of his father to cancer. His father's passing and influence inspired Mr. lbrahim Duffus to become a Research Scientist, determined to contribute cancer research, impacting the special needs community through the SE-A-WAY project, and reinforce his commitment to enhancing lives and communities.
My grandmother would say, 'What a soul'? I'm oh so proud of him!
Can I be honest with you though?
When I looked at him first, I realized that he apparently struggled with some sort of disability, and I said to my wife, 'OMG, I can only imagine the struggles and ridicule he had to endure - especially in school!'.
But look at him now!
And I believe this is just the beginning, he has a lot more to come!
We'll be here to cheer you on pops! Keep shining, keep believing🌟
By the way, you probably already know that my dear daugther, Karena Gayle, was also the recipient of this prestigious award.
She too was a part of the batch with Ibrahim Duffus. She also is a champion in her own right, an extremely talented human being. I'm just honoured to be her dad🤗
You can read more about her and about that award here.
About The Governor General Award
The Governor General's Achievement Award in Jamaica, introduced in 1991, has been a transformative force for our youth. It honors their exceptional dedication to community service, leadership, and personal growth.
This initiative has not only celebrated their achievements but has also inspired a new generation of Jamaicans to strive for greatness.
It serves as a testament to the talent and potential within our island, fostering a sense of pride and motivation among young people.
Over the years, it has nurtured countless individuals who continue to make significant contributions to Jamaica, reinforcing our vibrant and resilient spirit.
You can read more about it here on their website.
You might like these
Beauty in Jamaica | Our History In Miss World & Miss Universe Pageants
Beauty in Jamaica | Our Enviable History of stellar performances in both the Miss World and Miss Universe Pageants
Meet Usain Bolt - The Athletic Legend
He has achieved the unimaginable in athletics. Meet Jamaica and the world's best, Usain Bolt
Meet Shaggy, Jamaica's Decorated Reggae Singer and Songwriter
Who really is Shaggy? Did you even know that we was enlisted in the US military? Learn more about one of Jamaica's most decorated singer and songwriter here
Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)
If you found this page useful, please consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter, to get even more.
It tells you each week about the new information that I have added, including new developments and great stories from lovers of Jamaica!
Return to Interesting facts about Jamaican Culture from Ibrahim Duffus
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from Ibrahim Duffus
Citation Of References & Sources For Ibrahim Duffus
- "Mr. Ibrahim Duffus." The Governor General Achievement Award 2023, Jamaica Information Service (JIS), June 2023, pp.46.
- JUDANA MURPHY. "21-Year-Old Overcomes Loss, Developmental Delay to Earn G-G Achievement Award", JIS.gov.jm, July 5, 2023
New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿
 |
You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise! I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now! |
See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!
 |
My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers. |
Read More ...
New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!
P.S. Didn't find what you were looking for?
Still need help?
Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!
Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.
Featured Video!
Travelling To Jamaica?
Read this BEFORE you go
👇🏿
New Here?
I recommend you START HERE to enjoy the best of this website!
New! For Authentic Jamaican products, from my very own hands, visit my Etsy store here.
Recent Articles
-
Hurricane Beryl In Jamaica | Expected Impact and Updates
Jul 02, 24 05:30 PM
The storm is at our doorsteps! Hurricane Beryl in Jamaica is predicted to have a significant impact, leaving behind serious damage. -
🌀 Hurricane Beryl Threatens Jamaica - Key Updates & Preparation Tips (Join Us Live)
Jul 02, 24 05:19 PM
For 10 years, Jamaica has gone pretty much unscathed from the impact of Hurricane. Our last impactful encounter was in 2004 when the outer bands of Hurricane Ivan hit us as a category 4, leaving us ov… -
Jamaica Best School Band Competition| Where Young Musical Talent Shine
Jul 02, 24 02:28 PM
With music being a a big part of our identity, the Jamaica Best School Band Competition has created a crucial platform for young musicians to shine. -
Benefits Of The Jamaican Sweetsop | Health Benefits and Uses
Jul 01, 24 11:43 PM
Though mostly cherished for its taste, you will be surprised by the many benefits of the Jamaican Sweetsop. -
Lychee Season In Jamaica | The Jamaican Chinese Guinep
Jul 01, 24 11:19 AM
Have you ever had a Lychee? Well according to the opinions of many locals, you are missing out. Lychee season in Jamaica is one of their favourites.
About The Author
A patriotic Jamaican who adores its culture, Wellesley has been using this medium to share what he calls 'the uniqueness of Jamaica with the world' since April 2007.
To date, he serves over 9,300 unique readers / viewers per day (and over 1.1millon page views monthly)
His efforts have earned this site featured positions in local publications, including the Jamaica Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica, Carlong Publishers, as well as recognition from numerous prestigious international agencies and universities. Read more about him here.
He invites you to subscribe to this site to stay updated on all the latest and check out his unique Jamaican products on his e-store.
If you are on social media, here are the links to follow his latest posts:
You are also invited to join his exclusive JAMHearts community where like-minded Jamaican enthusiasts discuss all things Jamaican.
Didn't Find What You Are Seeking?
Do a quick site search here:
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.