SVF unveils new community ‘heroes’

Following an extensive public nomination process, where Jamaicans were invited to identify outstanding micro entrepreneurs who are making a positive difference in their communities, Supreme Ventures Foundation (SVF) has identified its third cohort of four individuals to be celebrated for their work.

In a statement, SVF said that, from the numerous nominations received across the island, the individuals were shortlisted based on their demonstrated commitment to philanthropy and social transformation.

They are Tishauna Mullings, chief success officer at NexxStepp Lifelong Educational Services in St Thomas; Abiathar Neita, founder of Neita’s Funeral Services & Supplies in St Ann; Nicholas McKenzie, operator of Kritical’s Defensive Driving School in Kingston; and Tanisha Richards-Whyte, owner of Tan Tan Wholesale Enterprises in St Catherine.

“These Supreme Heroes embody the transformative power of social entrepreneurship and community service,” said Heather Goldson, director of the SVF. “Our last two cohorts have been very impressive and we’re very happy to welcome our third cohort of hard-working microentrepreneurs who were nominated by their community because of the good work they do with very limited resources. We were very pleased with the overall quality of all the nominees this year and anticipate another successful year with the shortlisted Heroes.”

The project is being facilitated through Changemakers Limited, which has conducted comprehensive background research to validate the new cohort, working closely with the Mona Entrepreneurial and Commercialisation Centre (MECC).

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“When we launched this programme we wanted to not only celebrate those often unsung community heroes, but to also equip them with the tools to develop and expand their businesses,” Goldson explained. “A key component of the Supreme Heroes programme is to strengthen the business capacity in addition to providing them with grant-funding that will take their social interventions to the next level. Our partnerships with Changemakers and the Mona Entrepreneurial and Commercialization Centre allow us to provide training and coaching across a number of basic business disciplines from finance and marketing to leadership.”

The selected Heroes will now enter an intensive capacity-building phase at MECC, where they will receive specialised training to enhance their community impact. Each participant will receive a grant to execute a community project, putting their enhanced skills into immediate action.

At the conclusion of the programme, participants will achieve several key milestones including registration as both a business and charitable organisation where applicable, development of a unique five-year business plan with comprehensive financial planning, enhanced knowledge of basic business practices and a sustainable roadmap for future growth.

The ultimate Supreme Hero will be chosen through public voting at the programme’s conclusion. The winner will receive a trophy and a cash grant to further their philanthropic work, ensuring continued positive impact in their community.