Why I Give Stories

A Journey of Compassion and Change

My journey into philanthropy began in 2016 when my nephew was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. This revelation profoundly changed the course of my family's life. In our quest to provide him with the best care possible, we faced numerous challenges in Trinidad and Tobago. At that time, the early 20s, the quality of care and access to facilities for special needs children were either prohibitively expensive or geographically out of reach. Our persistent search led us to a remarkable Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) known as Autism Place, which offered unparalleled services at a reasonable cost, standing out as a beacon of hope and support in the east.

The exceptional care provided by the Autism Place ignited a spark within me, prompting a deep desire to contribute to the cause. I began by volunteering my time, which soon expanded into financial contributions to support various activities. These included sponsoring occupational therapy for multiple children and families, covering the cost for kids to attend summer camps, and providing self-care resources for parents. This engagement allowed me to witness firsthand the positive impact such support had on the lives of these children and their families.

My philanthropic journey took on new dimensions when I became pregnant. I made a vow to ensure that my son would grow up understanding the value of all individuals, regardless of their differences. To instill these values, I started involving him in the activities at Autism Place, giving him the opportunity to engage with the children and learn the importance of empathy and inclusivity from a young age.

A Passion for the Environment

Additionally, my passion for environmental conservation was ignited at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was determined to teach my son about the origins of food and the significance of sustainable practices. This dedication led me to emphasize the importance of growing our own food, not only to benefit the environment but also to enrich the lives of those around us.

As part of this commitment, I became actively involved with the Enviro ERG for Scotiabank, channeling my efforts towards environmental sustainability and education. One of my latest personal projects focuses on a food bank initiative, where I aim to start growing seedlings and distributing them to schools and special needs NGOs at no cost marrying my passion for supporting kids on the spectrum and the environment. This initiative is designed to empower these organizations to become self-sufficient, protect the environment, support the rehabilitation of special needs children and adults, and potentially provide an additional source of income.

Making a Difference Together

Through my philanthropic work with Autism Place and Enviro ERG, I have sought to be the change I wish to see in the world. By combining my passion for special needs advocacy and environmental conservation, I strive to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and compassionate society. It is my hope that these efforts will inspire others to take action and make a meaningful difference in their communities, one step at a time.

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