Kindest Kid in San Pedro Award 2012 Nominations

These are the wonderful final nominations for the Kindest Kid in San Pedro Award 2012. Every primary school in San Pedro was invited to nominate students that they felt could represent them as Kindness Ambassadors.

With the fantastic support and assistance of Mr. Gustavo Ramirez, the Guidance Counsellor at San Pedro High School, along with students, the heart warming nominations made by primary schools, were narrowed down to the final four. This was done anonymously and on a scoring basis.

Now it is up to the public to decide. Every vote will count. So please read these nominations and vote for the one you think best represents the sort of kindness you believe is at the heart of the San Pedro community.

One winner and one runner up will be announced on the 24th of May. Voting ends on the 18th of May.

For more information about the Kindest Kid in San Pedro Award 2012 or if you would like to sponsor the prize in some way, please call 624 8251 or write to BeKindBelize@gmail.com.

Read the nominations below and vote if you like.

Nomination 1

He is not only an outstanding student, but human being. As his teacher I have him exhibit constant, humble, humility, while helping other students or offering to do jobs that no one else offers or wants to do. When things seem to have a negative impact on things which affect him, he is always positive with a ‘Thats OK’ response.

He constantly offers help without being asked, noticing when things need to be done without needing to be told. He gives of his knowledge, his possessions, his time and himself, consistently and completely. I’ve witnessed him donate money so friends wouldn’t go without, give up his turn in sports and help other students academically, just to name a few. He helps outside the home as well at his family business, volunteers at SAGA, nd is always willing to peer tutor. I’ve had to move him up in vocabulary because he’s very bright, and when the Be Kind Belize programme was going on, he was constantly nominating others because he noticed their kind deeds. I wholeheartedly nominate him.

Nomination 2

Kindness and honesty are some virtues that people should possess. Many at times people become boastful because of having or possessing more money or material things than others.

I know a person who is very kind, honest, loving and outgoing. She comes from a big family with six members. Families whom I can say have thought she about what she is and what her job here is on earth. She is a 10 year old girl that although she has all the commodities; she is always willing to share her luck and her things with others. I have seen her inviting other students for lunch at her house. She often buys things for her friends and other people whenever they are need of a helping hand. She is always showing people around her that they value a lot, she always brings small tokens for them, for example photocopies papers and even donuts. Her kindness is seen daily and whenever she gives out things you will never hear her saying ‘I gave you this so you need to give me that or do something for me’ or ‘ I give you things because you are poor and I am rich.’

There are also instances whereby she gives out things without people knowing what it is or making them know who gave it. As example of this will be clothing that she no longer uses. When she reaches to school she will leave her bag on her chair and then walk off to the class where she needs to deliver the stuff. All she says is ‘ I brought it for.’

She is a person with a huge heart. She has hopes that more people become kind and humble. She also hopes that someday there will be peace and love in the whole country.

Nomination 3

This chid shows a high level of kindness and determination, regardless of the family dysfunction He in my opinion will be the best candidate to be awarded. He struggles with many challenges both at home and in his community. Nevertheless he still holds respect for his elders and peers. He is willing to do anything to help. He never disrespects or be ill mannered when ask to do something. He is determine to be someone successful, to show society that even though his family known to be radical, he still overshadows that and makes it into something optimistic. He shows kindness in his community, helping with clean up campaign and other things. I think he will be the person to choose for the Be Kind award.

Nomination 4

Classified as a virtue, kindness is having positive outlooks and cheerful demeanour in order to inspire and give kindness to others. This lovely young lady, one of the candidates, outreaches the standards of the word kindness. Not only does she care about her immediate family, but she also shows empathy towards others who surround her. She has inspired many of her peers into making personal sacrifice and making positive decisions. She is a role model for younger students, since she shows leadership, quality and compassion which prevails over any undesired circumstances. She has been chosen by her peers, o be part of the competition, with much admiration and love.

Don't forget to vote! This is your chance to vote for the Kindest Kid in San Pedro Award 2012. Every vote will count.

Damn, choosing is hard!!! I wanted to vote for all 4, they all sound so very deserving of this award. Can't wait to hear who wins...

Don't forget to vote!!!

Have you voted yet?

Yes I did.

Can I vote again?

The deadline for voting is the 18th of May! Please make sure to vote!

Boy, I am questioning this thing. Young children should not be judged on kindness. Wow. I am speachless. The #2 child who seems to be a bit affluent looks like she will lose,even though her heart is precious. then how are these kids going to feel for not being kind enough. Its all wrong. Good primise, but not thought through, like a baby beauty pagent. The winner feels good and everyone else is confused. Its not a prize to be kind. Mabe at High School level, not such young children, pay offs are not understood at that young age. With only 15 votes, mabe the good intentioned contest did not fare so well, Tell all those young children it was a tie and they all won...PLEASE
Its not math, not spelling, not history, not sports...wont even help with bullying..your judging children on Kindness....

Cooper. Thank you for your questions. Be Kind Belize has been around since 2007, encouraging and rewarding children in Belize for kind behaviour. We have had great support and feedback from the community and work closely with teachers and school faculty. Rewarding behaviour encourages that behaviour and makes it more likely to occur. The more we encourage children to be kind and to reward them when they do so, the more role models we create for others. These nominations were sent in by teachers and principals because they are incredibly proud of some of the children in their school who they believe deserve acknowledgment. This was not the only forum for voting. Both newspapers participated and it was reported that there was a great deal of interest and support as well as excitement. This will hopefully become an annual event and will spark discussions in school in respect to kindness and also encourage children to practice kind acts. Kindness, especially for children that may have not experienced much of it in their lives, often has to be taught. Practice makes perfect and wouldn't we all love to live in a community where children are competing to be the kindest. Math, spelling and history are important but without empathy and kindness, irrelevant. This is why humane education exists. I'd be very grateful that if you have further criticism of this event if you'd contact me directly rather than bring negativity to something that has so far been very positive and exciting. Many thanks.

Oh cooper...good grief.

Wow, talk about no good deed goes unpunished...

I'm with Cooper on this one. Very bizarre sort of competition.

Let acts of kindness be rewarded at the time (recognized publicly in class, at home, in the street, etc.) for proper reinforcement. But to have a competition based on teacher/supervisor recommendations smacks of favoritism and to have it based on subjective and rather poorly written recommendations doesn't give true value to the acts and character of the "contestants".
All of the kids who didn't/won't win are therefore not kind enough? Those not nominated are mean?
Kindness is a recognized moral value and considered the antithesis of envy/greed (deadly sin). Kindness is good and should be encouraged but to have a program like this will push some kids to acts of kindness for the wrong reason: to win.
School is a place where children learn all sorts of things, but not where one should learn that kindness is a competition, but only one valuable way of getting along with others.
Competition is valuable and there should be winners and losers but on a pragmatic, rational basis - a level playing field if you will.
Let the kids decide amongst themselves who is the kindest or most popular - its what kids do anyway. Such popularity contests aren't any more fair than this but are part of growing up.
Where is the best mathematician? The best speller? The best grammarian?

geeze what kind of competition isn't bizarre in some sort of way. contemplate huge men crashing together and damaging their brains, and everyone loves it!!!!

this is a competition for kindness! we need more of them!

i used to do history competitions in school, where me memorized long lists of irrelevant facts. i would much have preferred a competition where i could go out and do good things for people.

i did debate. learn both sides of a question so you can argue to the death on either side. is that not strange?

Hardly strange and very useful! The ability to debate does not presume the necessity to agree with whatever side you are on, only to know and use relevant facts (or opinions), present them with conviction, and let others be swayed by one argument or the other.

As for the physical competitions, not everyone "loves" them.

Competitions, to the best of my knowledge are rarely fair, I suppose it depends on your unique perspective in any given event as to what you deem fair or unfair. I think the Be Kind Belize program has brought a whole new perception of animals to our community. I am definitely seeing a shift in attitudes towards animals that include concern and respect for the welfare of animals here on the Caye.

Personally I always admire people,when they get up, stand up for their cares and belief system and are willing to be put on a stage or platform and be judged. That is no easy task.

These kids are our potential leaders and policy makers of the future.

I applaud their efforts and those of the Be Kind Belize program.

My son attends primary school and he has come home and proudly handed over certificates and coloring books from the Be Kind Belize project. He rushes to tell us about how to be caring and how to care for our pets and why we should be wary of animals we don't know etc....

I am yet again dismayed at how some people can't resist the urge to put others down, others that give their hearts, souls, energy, time and money into broadening our kids horizons and who take the time to know our kids, not just on a cursory level but know about their lives, their families and their hopes and dreams.

Keep up the great work Be a kind Belize. I have 2 children that have been through the ongoing programs and loved every minute of it. And you know what, they didn't even get nominated and you don't see them moping around. In any competition there is a winner and there is a ton of people that didn't win. That is how competitions work.

Unless this is one of your rare exceptions, it's a sad commentary that you're supporting an unfair competition involving kids.


This is good. Very good in fact. It is sad the many animals, including pets, that are poorly treated. Any effort to improve this situation has my support.


I certainly didn't put anyone down. I simply shared my opinion of a competition based on morality which won't change a whit of what BeKindBelize is doing, effect the outcome of voting, or the learning experience (good or bad) the children get from this effort.

Your children's experiences sound good and I hope it is true for all the children.

The Be Kind Belize program is excellent. My child will be old enough next year to be in it. However I know a lot of children who have taken the program and have all enjoyed it. Colette works with a lot of children. It is hard to pick one child to win so she opened it up. These children were nominated by their classmates. Their teachers wrote up the summary of why they should win. Also I would like to mention that the kids work harder knowing that there is a "prize" in the end.
Colette keep up the good work. You are making a difference with the children in SP.

Ted Kaczynski has a PhD in mathematics.

It's a no brainer to support what Be Kind Belize is doing..... good work Colette! Please keep doing the great things you do for the kids of Belize.

I love how people will question the good deeds and work of some people like it is their job. Keep your head up Colette and know that "the silent majority" appreciate everything that Be Kind Belize does for the island and residents. You make San Pedro a better place each and every day.

Mr & Mrs CBT

I would like to tell Cooper what everyone (99.99% anyway) is thinking and where to put it............but then that would not be kind and probably get deleted.

Amen KLC.... and we have seen some past post of Cooper's that were not very kind. For that reason, we avoided the shop all together.
Colette, keep up your great work and to heck with the nay-sayers..

Keep doing what you're doing Colette. The kids need you and the animals need you!

Unbelievable, adults that don't want kids to be recognized for their kindness. Really? Do you really think kids don't realize there are varied degrees of kindness just as there are of ill? You really think this kind of "competition" will hurt them? There's not enough kids getting their 10 minutes of fame by doing something unlawful?

To take a line from Marty...GEEZE!

I think it is great to allow kids to be seen as the wonderful beings most of them are. Unfortunately, there is not enough "news" coverage of these acts of kindness or heroism. Do you think one of these kids that has been nominated might change the life of another person for the better because of their perceived kindness and that by their kindness being recognized by others, they may wish to continue into philanthropy as they grow into adulthood. Also, continuing on the same line, there are other kids that see the public recognition and may wish to choose a life of good for no other reason.

In my opinion, that sure beats the heck out of recognizing the lives of crime that are so often put out in the front of all of us.

Go Collette!!!! Thank you for what you do to change our world for the better!!

(These are questions I just have a broken keyboard)
Were these reviews really were written by principles and or teachers.
Why were their names were not attached and maybe even the school
I understand (kinda) not listing the kids names but heck – who, that has anything to do with the program, doesn’t know this
If this is about honoring the kids why not list all their names – all that were even nominated – not just the winner or even the top four

Colette, BKB is the most amazing endeavour undertaken in Belize. Don't let anyone bring you or BKB down. Incredible results are evident.
We should all take the time to read the following poem.. Children Learn What They Live
http://www.empowermentresources.com/info2/childrenlearn-long_version.html
If only those who question the works of BKB would put their energy into positive workings, things would change for the betterment of mankind.
Keep up the good work. Gail

AMEN Gailator!!! I believe you've hit the nail on the head with that comment. We should all be putting forth positive energy to improve our world for everyone..

Thank you!

I remember in grade school at awards time we had a citizenship award for boy or girl who went above and beyond in helping others. We did not have a great effort like BKB to help guide us on Being Kind, help us understand what it really means and why it is important to help one another.

I have witnessed Be Kind Belize from the get go and been to see a session with students in person. BKB a much needed thing and Colette has worked very hard to make it strong, successful and beneficial for the Youth of Belize.

Manuel Heredia Jr. congratulates the kids that were awarded with the 'Kind Kid' awards today at the Youth Rally held at the San Pedro High School Auditorium. They are Mariano Calderon from Island Academy, Faith Azueta from San Pedro R.C School and Naomi King from Island Academy. To the motivational speakers that shared their intellect today: Thank you, you all are a true inspiration!

The rally was for the high school students but these three younger kids were there to receive their awards from "Be Kind Belize". They were nominated by their primary schools for the Kindest Kid in San Pedro Award (ages 6 to 10). Here are the winning Kindness Ambassadors. Kids who put others before themselves, who respect their teachers, their friends and the environment (though the competition is over, read the nominations, you'll tear right up). Seriously cute and so nervous to stand on stage in front of the high school and receive their prizes!

Minister Heredia presented them with some seriously packed gift bags. Mariano Calderon (in orange from the Island Academy) was the grand prize winner.

You simply MUST click here to read the rest of this fabulous article and see lots more great photos on San Pedro Scoop

Congratulations kids!

here's a video!

Kindest Kid in San Pedro Awarded

Be Kind Belize was looking for the “Kindest Kid” in the community and students at primary school level were invited to nominate Kindness Ambassadors to represent their school. Students that have done acts of kindness were asked to be nominated for this award and after much nominations being entered it was narrowed down to four.

Nominations were posted online and the public was asked to vote for their favorite (anonymous) nominee. The idea behind the award was to acknowledge acts of kindness and reward them. Be Kind Belize wants to encourage the community to start to recognize our great kids so that they will be role models for future generations.

Click here to read the rest of the article and see more photos in the Ambergris Today

Kindest Kid in San Pedro Award 2012 –
Thank you and congratulations!

On the 24th of May 2012, Minister of Culture & Tourism, Hon. Manuel Heredia, presented prizes to three children, who had won awards for kindness in San Pedro. The Grand Prize winner was Mariano Calderon (The Island Academy), Faith Azueta (R.C. School) was the 1st Runner up and Naomi King (The Island Academy) won the Be Kind Belize Choice Award.

The Kindest Kid in San Pedro Award was started by Be Kind Belize with the belief that children who do good things in our community and who are kind deserve acknowledgement. By doing this, it is hoped that discussions about kindness and generosity of spirit will be started in schools, encouraging children to look up to positive role models, such as the Kindest Kid Award winners.

The children were nominated by their schools as ‘kindness ambassadors’. Teachers, principals and students were involved in the nomination process. Many thanks to San Pedro High School students, and most of all High School Counsellor, Gustavo Ramirez, for their assistance in the elimination process and support throughout.

The local media have been tremendously supportive and this event would not have been so successful without their help and encouragement. Thanks also to Restore Belize, for organising the Youth Rally, which was such a wonderful event and inviting Be Kind Belize to participate. Maureen Utsman’s lovely assistance in helping to make this happen was especially appreciated.

Each winner received a fabulous gift bag and a cash prize. This wouldn’t have been possible without many generous prize sponsors and supporters who also deserve acknowledgement for their kindness. They include:

BACAB Eco Park
Rico’s Bar & Grill
Sail Away Cafe
San Pedro Fitness Club
Sail Sports
San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxis
Kakaw Belizean Chocolate
Janice Morningstar
Brenda Wyatt
Ambergris Caye.com
San Pedro Books
SEArious Adventures
Ramon’s Village Resort
Gecko Graphics
D& E’s Frozen Custard and Sorbet
Scotia Bank
Fido’s Restaurant and Bar
Pelican Reef Villas

It was amazing to see the enthusiasm and participation amongst the schools and all of those who participated in this event. Schools that were represented in the finals were The Island Academy, R.C. School, Holy Cross Anglican School and Ambergris Caye Elementary School. They should be very proud of their students, whose nominations, publicised widely, demonstrated how wonderfully kind the children of San Pedro truly are. They were all perfect kindness ambassadors.

Thanks to everyone who voted and helped select the winners.

Be Kind Belize was established in 2007 to promote humane education in Belize. Humane education is based on the concept that all life is precious and is practiced by teaching young people the value and importance of treating all living creatures with kindness. As part of the programme children learn about self respect, caring for others, how to behave responsibly and understanding the consequences of their actions. Through classroom activities and research projects they learn why it is important to be kind to their family, friends, classmates, community, animals and the planet and how kindness makes Belize a better place.

If you would like to volunteer as a Be Kind Belize Humane Educator or if you would like to sponsor the programme in some way, please write to BeKindBelize@gmail.com.