TRUST you all had a wonderful Easter weekend, whether you went to the Bartica Regatta, Rodeo or chilled at home. My weekend was consumed with family, just as I had planned it, and it was glorious. Whether at a restaurant, the market, or at the airport, I encounter people who read this column and they share content that inspired and motivated them.

I would like to thank all the persons who read this column every week or send encouraging messages. I feel so honoured to be sharing words that are inspiring lives. I would like the mention a few persons in particular who are constant supporters. Thank you to Gordon Tucker of Berbice , who said he buys the Chronicle every Sunday to read Beyond the Runway; to Donna at Issano, who compiled a file with all the articles to share with people; Miss Sita in Stabroek Market, who always greets me with a big hug and reminds me to keep inspiring through this column.

One of the highlights of my weekend was the Award and Gala hosted by United Bridge Builders Mission (UBBM). I must thank UBBM for awarding me with the 2019 International Humanitarian Service Award. The event was held at the Pegasus and Joy Agness worked her magic to create a classy and sophisticated ambience. This organisation is making a meaningful contribution to society and I wish that Bonita Montaque and team receive the necessary support , so they can continue to contribute to humanity. Congrats to the other honourees , especially Wendy Hermonstine, Mark Watson and Max Massiah. I believe in giving selflessly and will do it, whether or not it is acknowledged; but it feels good when people notice. I have received many awards before, but that evening was extra special because it was the first time my mom attended an event with me. Claudia Noel John is a woman who loves to be in the background, so you must be saying Sonia must be like her dad, lol. I thank God for her moulding me into the woman I am today; and she still continues to influence me in a major way. My Aunt Corin Gibson and brother Junior also added to my evening. I am very family-oriented and family is everything to me. I received so many compliments, so I need to mention who assisted behind the scenes.Bibi Ramlall Khan (MUA) and Clemencio Goddette (Hair) added the elegance needed for the wine and black outfit I wore from my new collection.

As I received my award from Professor Ivelaw Griffith, I remembered the words of one of my favourite mentors John Maxwell and the law of contribution.

If you have worked to learn or earn something, you have the ability to pass it on to others. If you live by the Law of Contribution, you will have much to give other people, because growing yourself enables you to grow others.

Giving of your time, expertise and resources without expecting anything in return is an unselfish act that makes the world a better place. We need more givers. When you focus more on the wants and needs of others, more of your own wants and needs are met. In contrast, when you choose to hoard what you have, rather than give, you become the centre of your own lonely universe and you become less content, not more. As a result, you repel both people and potential blessings.

Cultivate an Attitude of Contribution
Be grateful
Put people first
Don’t let stuff own you
Don’t let people own you
Define success as sowing, not reaping
Focus on self-development, not self-fulfilment
Keep growing to keep giving. I have seen this info transform lives in my mastermind classes with content from the 15 Invaluable Laws of growth.
For us to reach our potential we must grow. And to grow, we must be highly intentional about it. This book has helped me learn how to grow and develop myself, so I have the best chance of becoming the person I was created to be.
I encourage all of us, no matter what, to keep investing in ourselves and make a positive contribution to our families, communities and nation.

Our next mastermind will commence soon and if you feel compelled to, you can email us; email beyondtherunway1@gmail.com as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.