On Monday 10th August, Her Majesty’s Prison hosted visiting Pastor Alphonso Bailey, and his wife Marsha, for a two-day motivational workshop with the prisoners. Mr Bailey was invited to deliver this programme by Ms Shariffa Wallace, Rehabilitation and Development Coordinator at the prison. The Baileys travelled from Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, and were on-island for three days.

Residents of HM Prison with Mr. Baily

Mr Bailey shared his inspirational life story as an aspiring athlete who lost his way, made bad choices and ended up in prison. A film was made about his life entitled, “Down But Not Out,” which illustrates his life experiences and encourages others in similar situations. Mr Bailey was able to turn his life around through focus, training, self-affirmations and redemption, and became a successful adult, a professional boxer and a role model. Having retired from boxing, Mr Bailey is now an ordained minister and is involved in full-time ministry in prisons and correctional facilities in the United States. This was his first time delivering his workshop overseas.

Twenty eight prisoners took part in the workshop on day one and the feedback and participation were very positive. Unfortunately, day two of the workshop could not go ahead as planned due to the fire at HM Prison on the morning of August 11. However, Mr Bailey’s schedule was promptly rearranged and he was taken to the Zenaida Haven Juvenile Centre instead. The young residents at Zenaida Haven were highly enthused by his intervention session and requested a return visit.

Residents of HM Prison with Mr. Baily

Ms Wallace said that a number of the prisoners at HM Prison had also responded positively to Mr Bailey, and the setback at the Prison was very unfortunate as the workshop had provided an opportunity for the prisoners to be part of a group and engage in some reflection on their own lives, in addition to receiving some spiritual guidance and fortitude. Those that participated were very disappointed that the programme had to be discontinued. It is hoped that a return visit may be scheduled in the future.

HM Prison was assisted by members of the local business community in hosting Mr and Mrs Bailey, and would wholeheartedly like to thank Mr Stephane Zaharia, Manager of Cuisinart Resort and Spa, for donating a hotel room for their stay, as well as the proprietors of Tasty’s Restaurant, E’s Oven Restaurant and Anguilla Great House who provided complimentary meals at their establishments.

- Press Release

Mr. and Mrs. Baily

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