From left are Jasmine Jones and her son Royston Jones. (Photo: Royston Jones)

He is a reporter and his mother is an attorney. Yet, they both are part-time carpentry majors at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI).

The name Royston Jones is familiar, as he writes articles for The Nassau Guardian and has reported for Our News. As someone who works up to 12 hours per day, one may wonder where he finds time to sit in a two-hour class -- twice per week.

"I have limited time, and election season is coming up. That involves traveling, but I'll be traveling with my books," he said assuredly.

Both Royston and his mother, Jasmine Jones are taking Blue Print Reading this semester, but they are in different sections. As do-it-yourself individuals, this new venture is no surprise to those in their circles.

"I recently tiled a bathroom and have upholstered a couch before. I am happy and love what I do as a journalist, but I do have other interests. I am young. I am prepared to go without sleep, to do some projects," said the industrious young man.

A graduate of John Ruskin College in Oxford, England, with a degree in economics, sociology and politics, Royston said he has long been interested in hands-on work.

"My girlfriend has studied cosmetology at BTVI for two years. She prompted me with her schooling experience. She is a successful student and I am excited about her progress," he revealed.

What solidified Royston's interest in BTVI was his recent coverage of the institution's groundbreaking of a $2.3 million smart classroom block and restroom facilities.

"As I was walking around, I was telling people, 'I'm getting a good vibe from this.' Instead of it being a concept, I got the tour and conversations I should have gotten a year ago. I even got to speak to a board member," he said.

"I met Dean of Construction Trades and Workforce Development Alexander Darville and he was very thorough. It appealed to me. During our conversation, I heard about cabinet making, reinforcing walls and the laying of foundations," recalled Royston.

BTVI President Dr. Robert W. Robertson recently coined the phrase, "learn a trade, earn a living". It speaks to the practicality of the institution; yet, for a long time, there has been a stigma attached to technical and vocational education. It is a misconception Royston quickly shut down.

"I have people in my carpentry class who are A Level Math students. Don't let the name or public opinion of BTVI fool you. Vocational education is not for those who cannot do.  From carpentry and Blue Print Reading, I can easily venture into the foundation of architecture," he envisioned.

As for how the initial few weeks of classes are progressing, Royston said he loves the environment.
"I do not feel ostracized by age. People are coming and learning something new. I think it's incredible," he exclaimed.

Meanwhile, Royston's mother explained that with the family owning a property management business, there is constant work to be done.

"I believe we should be able to handle small carpentry jobs. I get dirty every day. I'm not afraid of tools, hard work, getting cuts. I am not afraid to challenge myself," said the adventurous Jasmine.

Like her only child, Jasmine is very busy. She is the assistant director of labor relations in the human resources division of Atlantis. She is also the chairperson of the Bahama Island Cooperative Credit Union and president of Providence Management Company Limited, managing about 20 Westridge Estates units that need maintenance work every so often.

"The class hasn't been strenuous. The work is very manageable. I already have the mathematical side of it. I manage to attend all of my classes so far and I am enjoying it," said Jasmine.

In fact, she said no other institution was an option as she sought to venture into learning a vocational skill.

"It's probably because my brother attended a long time ago and he is a skilled carpenter. And most of my colleagues don't believe I will use these skills. However, I intend to build a deck or a green house, and I will take photos and post on Facebook," proclaimed the attorney of 17 years.

"Royston and I, we already think we may do plumbing or masonry too. We aren't stopping here," she said.

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