APRIL possessed many meaningful highlights that energised me to do inspiring things. Joining the celebration for the 101-year celebration of the Dharm Shala (Home of Benevolence for all Races) was one such moment.

The idea came about one day when I called  Kella to tell her that the Bread Basket Mission would be making another contribution to the Dharm Shala. We always chat about many things and during our conversation, I mentioned that my foundation would like do something special for Easter and she suggested the Anniversary, which is close to Easter. I thought about something that would lift the residents’ spirits. I invited  well-known Guyanese Musicians to entertain the residents with music that would take them down memory lane. I admire this veteran musician because he has a heart to give; he always dresses well, and that day was no exception. He was sharp as a stepping razor and he has the talent to match it.  Herbie gave the residents an option to select the music they wanted to hear on the 101st year of existence. A wide selection crossed many genres, which the veteran musician masterfully executed.

The residents were enthusiastically singing along to all the songs, ranging from well-known hymns such as ‘Old Rugged Cross’ to songs from Brooke Benton, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and others. I believe the residents were thinking about the Shakespare quote, “If music be the food of love, play on”. Herbie had just completed his session and one of the guys said, “Play a Ray Charles” and he complied with Hit the Road Jack. Natasha and Naomi, who assisted me, were enjoying the music as much as the residents. I think we all did, including staff Kella and Pamela Ramsaroop.The sister expressed much gratitude and was happy to see how much the residents appreciated this celebration.

Marshall, also shared childhood stories of when he would visit his uncle, James Clarke, in the 50s at this home. Back then, it was a wooden building.
Succulent snacks and fruit juice were served to the excited audience. I even  made my delicious chunks cakes and many thought it was meat. Thank you to Manuella Bell from my hometown, who contributed sponge and chocolate cakes.
Mr Hendricks, who now lives in the US, was excited to contribute because of his childhood memory of the Dharm Shala. He lived in Albouystown, where the organisation is located and he went down memory lane telling me about the Christmas party the Dharm Shala had hosted. He said a lot of poor kids benefited from the Christmas gifts and he will never forget those years. Those are impressionable years for kids. That reminds me that I did promise last week that I would share a story about my brilliant and kind-hearted grandson Jaidyn.

He was with his dad Yanic and was discussing a topic he is passionate about. He always feels sad when he is looking at homeless people, so he suggested to his dad that he would like to do something about it and his dad suggested he call his grandmother because she is familiar with charity work. Even before the Sonia Noel Foundation, I was actively involved in fashion philanthropy, so his mother, Marisca and my younger daughter Shonta grew up seeing that.
I was curious to know why, so I asked him and he said, “ Granma I believe we all should want to make this world a better place. The people who are in need of our help to feel loved and wanted and if we can provide food, clothing it will help the homeless.” I could hear the conviction in his voice and knew I had to assist him in doing something. I explained starting with the food and then clothing is our best option and the shelter is not impossible but will take longer. He was super excited, and we started making plans and was fun having discussions with him regarding our plans because this project was his idea and not the work my foundation does.
I requested that he assist in the preparation, and he was happy to do that. He peeled the onions and garlic and wrapped the spoons in the serviettes. He was asking why onions have so many layers and why they burnt his eyes. Jaidyn also said a powerful prayer before distributing the meals. I saw some familiar faces and I told them this treat was from my grandson and they thanked him. I looked at his face as we were travelling back home and I wish I had taken a pic to capture the expression on his face for his parents. It was another priceless moment and I am happy I have it stored in my memory bank. He shared his thoughts when we got home and he requested we do it every week. I told him I have a weekly programme for the homeless but I will assist him with his programme.
The environment kids grow in influences the way they think and the decisions they make. I believe he will take the Sonia Noel Foundation to the next level because, at his age, he understands why we should display compassion and love to each other no matter who they are. This gesture that he initiated inspired to give even more. I will be displaying at UNCAPPED this weekend at the Stadium and I will be giving away a few of my Personal Development Courses and an item from the I AM Collection. Maybe you can be one blessed winner as we celebrate this journey called Life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.