About Us
Old Prince Waleans Association (OPWA)
A network of passionate alumni, scattered across the globe, yet united by a shared bond: our alma mater, the Prince of Wales School. This is the story of the Old Prince Waleans Association (OPWA), and specifically, its vibrant chapter in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area. Since 1988, the OPWA DC chapter has been a powerhouse of support, a testament to the enduring spirit of giving back.
We host monthly virtual meetings, these aren't just meetings; they're strategic sessions, fueled by a collective desire to uplift their beloved Prince of Wales School. Driven by a deep commitment to our school, the OPWA DC chapter has consistently delivered tangible results.
We have poured resources into Prince of Wales School, addressing critical needs with impactful projects. Imagine the thrill of students receiving brand-new band instruments, the spark of creativity ignited by a fresh supply of art materials, or the power of knowledge unlocked by desktop computers in a state-of-the-art lab. We have provided the essentials—stationery, school ties, and coat badges—ensuring every student has the tools they need to succeed. We have celebrated achievement with athletic shields, trophies, and medals, fostering a culture of excellence. And we have rewarded dedication with annual staff bonuses, acknowledging the tireless efforts of the school’s educators.
But our support goes beyond material goods. We have invested in the future, awarding numerous scholarships to deserving students, ensuring that financial constraints don't hinder their educational journey. Notably, seven of these scholarships were privately funded by dedicated Princewaleans, a testament to their personal commitment. In 2013, we spearheaded innovation by purchasing the world's first solar printing device for POW's solar-powered computer lab, a forward-thinking initiative.
The OPWA DC chapter isn't a lone wolf; it's a vital part of a global network. We collaborate seamlessly with chapters in New Jersey, Georgia, Southern California, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Sierra Leone, amplifying their impact through collective action. Together, we have achieved remarkable feats: providing chairs for every student, establishing a cutting-edge solar-powered computer lab equipped with laptops, maintaining a staff salary revolving fund, and offering financial assistance to the Prince of Wales School graduates pursuing further studies in South Africa. We have even undertaken the ambitious project of completely refurbishing all school buildings, starting with the historic Assembly Hall.
Since 2006, these global chapters have convened annual Global Conferences, rotating locations to foster unity and collaboration. These conferences are more than just meetings; they're strategic summits, where ideas are exchanged, projects are coordinated, and duplication is avoided. It is a testament to the power of collective action, ensuring that every effort counts. And here's the invitation: every former student of the Prince of Wales School, every Princewalean, is urged to join this dynamic community. Whether you're in the DC area or anywhere else in the world, there's a place for you in the OPWA family.
Contact the DC chapter to become a part of this legacy of giving back, and help shape the future of the Prince of Wales School.
SCHOOL SONG
The school song was introduced by the late principal, William J. Davies, MBE in 1936
1. Come swell the chorus one and all and join the ranks with me; Prosperity to the Prince's boys upstanding three times three. Dear as of old and dear as new and despite any storm Long live for many a thousand years our Prince of Wales, Kingtom CHORUS: For searching Sierra Leone far and wide, no school can well be found; That sends forth truer gentlemen, or stands on firmer ground.
2. ' T is not alone in science lore her manly sons excel; The cricket and the athletic grounds their tale of triumph tell. The Church, the State, the Camp and Bar, with varied voice attest, That whereso'er bright honour calls, her sons are with the best.
3. As on her walls we read the names renowned in former days, With beating hearts we vow to match their daring and their praise; For who would care through time to drift with dull and drowsy face, Unworthy of his faith and name, his father and his race.
4. Though scattered far we seldom meet the friends our boyhood knew, Old joys and griefs in memory dwell, toned down to sober hue, And as some well remembered name grows great, we glow with pride, To think that in our youthful days, we struggled at his side.
5. And when at last old age is ours and manhood's strength has fled, And young ambition's fire is cold and earthly hopes lie dead; We feel our boyhood's thrill once more and think its just life's morn, And keep a niche within our hearts for Prince of Wales, Kingtom.
Past OPWA Presidents
Mr. Chima Cline-Smythe
Dr. Francis Nicol
Rev. Victor Johnson
Dr. Elizabeth Sawyerr
Mr. Sylvanus Newstead
Mr. Alfie Snell
Mr. Robert Strasser-King
Abdul Kabba, Jr.
Philip Palmer Jr
Dr. Amara Kuyateh
Christian Davies
Sheku Shekito Mansaray