A new non-profit is working to uplift Laventille, striving to ensure the community is seen, heard, and invested in.
The Uphill Hope Foundation, launched at the Desperadoes Pan Theatre on Monday, is focused on promoting academic excellence, economic opportunities, and the overall well-being of the community.
Operating under the motto ‘Serving the people of Laventille from the heart’, its Chief Executive Officer, Josanne Mc Kain-Murray, said the Foundation’s strength lies in its deep connection to the community.
“Our executive board is proudly made up of residents of Laventille. We believe this gives us a unique advantage in serving the community. We understand the dynamics, the struggles, the strengths, and the spirit of Laventille, because we live it every day.”
According to Foundation President Moneifa Nance, their vision is more than aspirational; it is actionable.
“Our approach is one of empowerment through collaboration. It’s not about saving Laventille; it’s about supporting the brilliance and the tenacity that already exists. Our mission is to empower the people of Laventille by fostering academic excellence, creating economic opportunities, and nurturing social, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.”
One member of the Foundation’s Junior Leadership Board and a student at Queen’s Royal College (QRC), Javon Murray, emphasised that their youth team speaks not just as individuals from Laventille but as proud youth ambassadors committed to driving positive change within their community.
“The junior leadership board will be a vibrant and dynamic team of exceptional young people from Laventille, each bringing something unique to the table. We have earned national awards, represented our schools in the performing arts, and have maintained stellar academic records. We are proof that Laventille is filled with talent, potential, and brilliance.”
During its launch on Monday, the Foundation, through its education programme, distributed school supplies to a number of students, making them the first cohort to benefit from their community-driven initiatives.