Youth inspired by slain journalist aims for legal career

TTeamhe life and impact of legendary journalist and court reporter Barbara Gayle continues to resonate, especially for 22-year-old Kevin Edwards, whose journey into law was shaped by her mentorship and encouragement.

Edwards met Gayle when he was just nine at his church, Riverton Seventh-day Adventist in Kingston. From the moment they crossed paths, Gayle's caring nature and vibrant personality left a lasting impression.

"From the moment we met, she was a very caring, hospitable person with a vibrant personality," Edwards recalled. "She was also a source of encouragement not only for me, but for other children and youths in the church." Edwards fondly remembered how Gayle always inspired and pushed them to do better.

"She would tell us that there is nothing that we can't do, that we have potential, and she would literally help us in taking steps to reach that potential," he said.

"She was a very resourceful person. She would always find the means in which to bring out our different strengths and creativity," Edwards added. One pivotal moment in Edwards' life came when Gayle invited the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn to speak at the church's Adventist Youth Programme. At just 11 years old, Edwards attended the event, and the DPP's words sparked his passion for law.

"That specific evening when the DPP was invited, and she came and she told us about who she is, what her duties are, and gave us a proper display of who she is and what she stands for, how she stands for justice, and it wasn't just that she stood for justice - it was how fervent she was about getting justice for persons who have suffered some form of injustice - that really inspired me," Edwards explained.

Inspired by the DPP's words, Edwards became determined to study law. He attended The University of the West Indies, where he graduated with a Bachelor's degree in law. Now he is in his first year at the Norman Manley Law School, with the goal of one day becoming a prosecutor.

At Gayle's funeral service on Sunday, her incredible impact was acknowledged by many, including her impact on Edwards. He was mentioned by both the Riverton church elder and the DPP as someone whose life was shaped by Gayle's advocacy and kindness. Gayle's life was cut short last December when she was murdered in her Caymanas Estate home. The suspected killer is behind bars, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. As she spoke to the congregation at Gayle's funeral service, Llewellyn made it clear that justice would be served fairly.

"Fortunately, or unfortunately, I remain the director of public prosecutions, and it will be my indictment that will pilot the process throughout the administration of justice that she loved," she said. "I can hear her saying to me, 'Paula, I know that you will be fair.' And in honour of Barbara, all the resources, our acumen, our legal skills will be put to make sure that justice is done, but part of our DNA will be that we will be fair."

For Edwards, knowing that Llewellyn, who inspired him to study law, will be playing such a pivotal role in the prosecution of Gayle's suspected killer, is both comforting and motivating.

"I was really outraged by her death and the surrounding circumstances of her death," Edwards said. "So it's probably one of the best things that I could think of, as a person, as a member of the Jamaican society, and also as a law student who appreciates the role of a prosecutor."

Looking ahead, Edwards hopes to continue in Gayle's footsteps, not only by pursuing his legal career but also by giving back to the community that helped to shape him. He plans to start a scholarship fund to help others from humble backgrounds further their education, and be a source of encouragement - just as Gayle was for him.