Digicel reaches out to visually impaired scholar

THE ACHIEVEMENTS of extraordinary Barbadians should always be recognised, celebrated and further facilitated, and recently, leading telecommunications company, Digicel, did just that by providing a major boost to Barbados’ first visually impaired Exhibition winner, Janeil Odle.

In an effort to assist Odle with her continuing studies, which include the pursuit of a law degree from the University of the West Indies, where she is currently enrolled, Digicel recently presented her with a Standalone Reading Appliance (SARA).

This device will enable Odle to translate the mountains of written material she will encounter during her journey into audio files for ease of use.

Commercial Operations Director with Digicel (Barbados) Limited Tanya Menzies-Beckford said as soon as the company became aware of Janeil and her amazing journey, they reached out to her to see how they provide her with support.

“Janeil’s journey was brought to our attention by one of our staff members and we quickly arranged a meeting with her and her mother. We enquired about her needs, especially given that she was about to embark on probably the greatest challenge of her life by attending UWI and enrolling in a very demanding programme,” said Menzies-Beckford

“Of all of the types of assistance she identified, she seemed most keen on the reading appliance, so we immediately contacted and overseas supplier to order the device. Janeil’s story is certainly an extraordinary one and recognising certainly fits squarely in line with our brand promise of highlighting the extraordinary that is all around.

“We will continue to support Janeil, as well as encourage her to share her story of persistence and determination with young people across Barbados.”  

In accepting the donation, Janeil stated this would certainly make her life a lot easier over the next few years.

“Unfortunately much of the reading material required for a number of my courses, especially those related to Caribbean Law, are not available in E-book format, therefore, I have to rely heavily on friends and family to read the content of these books to me, which would obviously be a challenge long term,” she explained.

“This device will now eliminate that and allow me to digest the information at my own pace, making it much easier for me to successfully pursue this journey. I’d like to thank Digicel for their kind assistance and for reaching out to me. I certainly did not expect it, but I’m very appreciative.” (PR)