Year 2026
July
Literacy Drive At BPrS
The Barbados Prison Service (BPrS) has received a donation from the “Barbados is Blooming” initiative of the Prince Godwill D. Fomusoh Foundation (PGDFF), in partnership with Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc., aimed at enhancing rehabilitation efforts through improved literacy.
The donation took place on Wednesday, July 1, at the BPrS Dodds, St. Philip, where Superintendent of Prisons, DeCarlo Payne, accepted the items, which included books and a TV.
Assistant Superintendent (Admin Division), Major Ryan Smith, expressed appreciation for the donation. “On behalf of the Superintendent, I want to thank you so much for this welcomed donation, to help enhance our efforts at rehabilitation at the Prison; it is one of our focal points for this year…. We don’t have a big resource budget, so we welcome any assistance from any NGOs or entities who are willing to partner with us and work with us in our efforts to rehabilitate inmates here at this facility,” he said.
He explained that rehabilitation remains a key priority of the Barbados Prison Service and aligns with the Ministry’s broader objectives of reducing recidivism and helping offenders successfully reintegrate into society.
Assistant Superintendent Smith highlighted that literacy is one of the most significant challenges facing many inmates, noting that improving reading and language skills can help to curb mindsets and attitudes, so upon release, they can make meaningful contributions.
“One of the things we really like about this initiative is that through our efforts and through some assessments, we realise that literacy is a very big part of the issues, or what is the backdrop behind a lot of the deviant behaviour. So, any assistance to help in terms of improving their literacy competence here at the prison is welcomed, and so we are really happy to see such a big donation,” Major Smith stated.
Managing Director of Prince Godwill D. Fomusoh Foundation (PGDFF) Caribbean Inc., Anita Sundaram, noted that to date, under the “Barbados is Blooming” Campaign, over 28 libraries have benefited. She added, however, that this donation was a special one, and it was just the beginning.
She thanked the Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc. for partnering with the PGDFF and donating the television.
Ms. Natalie McDowald from Massy said the organisation was happy to partner again with PGDFF. “We have enjoyed this relationship with the Barbados is Blooming, and this is just another part of the journey,” Ms. McDowald stated.
The donated books will significantly expand the prison library’s collection and provide inmates with greater access to educational and personal development resources. Following the presentation, guests were invited to tour the library and activities area to gain a better understanding of the rehabilitation programmes currently offered by the Barbados Prison Service.
June
Project Happy Hands
288 Summer Totes Packed with Love for Children Across 3 schools.
The spirit of giving and community collaboration was on full display as Summer Totes were lovingly assembled during a special employee engagement event hosted at the Courtyard by Marriott.
PGDFF Caribbean Inc. and RBC Royal Bank (Barbados) Limited joined together to help to ensure the well-being of the children.
The initiative, known as Project Happy Hands, brought together volunteers from RBC Royal Bank (Barbados), Prince Godwill D. Fomusoh Foundation (PGDFF) Caribbean Inc., and several friends and family members, all united by a common goal—to bring joy and support to children during the summer season.The event transformed the hotel's courtyard into a hub of teamwork and compassion as volunteers packed the colourful totes.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the initiative was the inclusion of handwritten cards, with every child receiving a special personal message. Volunteers took time to write words of encouragement, kindness, and hope.
Shimon Mc Intosh ,Vice President-Commercial Banking and Managing Director |RBC Royal Bank (Barbados) Limited said:
It's a real pleasure to be gathered together for a moment like this — one that isn't about transactions or balance sheets, but about something far more enduring: showing up for the children and families in our community who need us most.
I want to start by recognizing the team at PGDFF Caribbean Inc. for bringing this idea to life, and for inviting RBC to be part of it. The best community initiatives are never built alone, they're built through partnership, shared purpose, and people who care enough to act.
I'd also like to acknowledge the Ministry of Education and all partners because when government, civil society, and the private sector align around a common cause, the impact is far greater than any one of us could achieve on our own.
Through RBC’s partnership with PGDFF Caribbean Inc., we'll be reaching approximately 288 children through — the Irving Wilson School, the Derrick Smith School and Lifelong Skills Training inc. These schools serve children living with disabilities and developmental challenges. Each child will receive a summer gift hamper — thoughtfully assembled with food, educational materials, sensory items, and wellness products. These packages were put together with care and with each child in mind.
RBC Royal Bank (Barbados) Limited is proud to contribute to bring Project Happy Hands to life. This isn't just a financial commitment. RBC team members rolled up their sleeves alongside PGDFF members and volunteers to personally assemble these hampers and gift bags. That kind of hands-on engagement matters. It's a reminder that community investment isn't just written in cheques — it's built with time, presence, and care.
Founder and President of PGDFF Caribbean ,Prince Godwill D.Fomusoh who could not be there personally shared a special message -
"Project Happy Hands is more than preparing summer totes; the support we received makes a direct impact on our mission of community assistance. Because of partners like RBC, we are able to create meaningful connections and show children that an entire community believes in them. We want to thank RBC for believing in our vision. Without corporate sponsors we cannot make an impact.
Special thanks also to the Ministry of Education Transformation and Hon.Minister Chad Blackman for sending representatives to each school for the presentation. Community partners like Glacial Ice who donated 40 cases of water and Courtyard by Marriott who provided the venue are invaluable."
Principal Victoria Mayers of Derrick Smith Vocational Center –“A massive thank you to the PGDFF (a frequent collaborator of ours) and RBC Royal Bank (Barbados), for coming together to do something really special for our students and their families: summer vacation gift bags.”
Director and Co-Founder, Heather Wiggins of Lifelong Skills Training Inc “Thank you so much for these food packages. It means a lot to our parents as our chat is flooded with messages of gratitude for this very timely and thoughtful gift. As you know our young people love to eat and parents welcome extra food at the beginning of this long holiday. Thank you once again for being so thoughtful and generous.”
The third school that benefited was the Irving Wilson School -: "The partnership with PGDFF and RBC is indeed a great initiative in that it directly delivers essential aid to the school and by extension families within the special needs community."
The event was also captured by Artist Kevin Cobham in a unique live sketch When communities come together with happy hands and open hearts, they can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of children.
Every Gesture and Donation Counts
PGDFF Caribbean is proud to support the incredible work being done at Life Long Skills Centre through a donation of food items.
The school serves more than 100 children with special needs and is dedicated to providing educational and life-skills training that helps students develop independence and confidence.
Mrs.Sushma Kini(PGDFF's Regional Coordination Manager) handed the donation to Andrew Taylor ,Manager of the Minimart and Heather Wiggins, Director and Co Founder of the school.
Mrs.Wiggins said :
"We are extremely grateful for this donation as it can be utilized in diverse ways namely,
* for our breakfast and lunch programmes
* for sale in the minimart.
May
Literacy push goes to rural areas
PGDFF Caribbean and Massy Foundation (Barbados)Limited install the 27th and 28th little library as part of the Barbados is Blooming Initiative.These were installed at the Holy Innocents School in St.Thomas and St Margaret's Primary School in St.John in collaboration with the Ministry of Education Transformation.
Each Little Library represents more than a collection of books—it represents access, possibility, and the planting of seeds that will grow for years to come.
Holy Innocents Primary
St Margaret’s Primary
Public Library at Six Cross Roads has a reading session of "Flying with the Prince" by Prince Godwill D.Fomusoh
As part of the Barbados is Blooming Literacy initiative of PGDFF Caribbean in partnership with Massy Foundation (Barbados) an interactive reading session was held.
The guest reader Boss Livvi is an avid reader and coined the term "Happy Reading."
The kids read along and then made model foam airplanes as well as played with a small globe ball.
Surprisingly Japan was on everyone wish to visit list.
The session ended with each child taking home a copy of the book and snacks that were provided.
Project Bright Guard launches at Irving Wilson School.
Students at the Irving Wilson School are now better equipped to respond in the event of a fire emergency following the launch of the Project Bright Guard – Kids Fire Safety Programme, spearheaded by the Barbados Fire Service in collaboration with the Prince Godwill D. Fomusoh Foundation Inc. (PGDFF Caribbean) and Republic Bank.
A donation of 100 smoke detectors, 10 bases, four fire blankets, four fire extinguishers, and children’s fire safety books.
The programme goes beyond donations and introduces a connected emergency response system aimed at protecting vulnerable students, said Deputy Chief Fire Officer Henderson Patrick.
“A central component of this incredible suite of equipment is a dedicated laptop which will be housed at the fire department next door,” he explained.
“It will pair those devices directly to the computer in our dispatch center so that the moment a smoke alarm is triggered anywhere on the compound, the signal travels instantly through our Wi-Fi devices across the network and announces directly to that laptop that an incident is occurring.”
Patrick stressed that the technology would reduce delays during emergencies, especially at special needs schools.
“This eliminates human delay and panic. A teacher does not need to look for a phone, dial an emergency number”, he said, adding that firefighters would be able to respond “in next to no time”.
The initiative is part of the Barbados Fire Service’s wider mission of community risk reduction, said the deputy fire chief.
“The true metrics of a modern world-class fire service is really its approach to community risk reduction. That is actually trying to stop the fire before it starts.”
Junior Minister of Health and Wellness Davidson Ishmael said he was eager to support the programme because of his passion for children and youth development.
“Children hold a very special place in my heart. I believe that they are the future of our country,” he told the gathering.
He noted that children with special needs require additional support when it comes to safety initiatives and called on corporate Barbados to become more involved in social development programmes.
“I want to encourage corporate Barbados to follow their example, because we need more entities across Barbados to help us to lift the load,” he said. The minister added that the programme is expected to expand beyond Irving Wilson School.
“We’re starting here in Irving Wilson, but I believe there is an intention that once this goes well, we’ll be able to expand to Ann Hill and other institutions,” he said.
Managing Director of PGDFF Caribbean Anita Sundaram said the programme forms part of Republic Bank’s “Power to Make a Difference” partnership for 2026 and is intended to eventually reach schools across Barbados.
“This is our phase one, phase two will be primary schools, and then phase three will be the secondary schools for sure,” she explained.
Every child is to receive the book “Prince’s Fire Safety Tips”.
Republic Bank’s marketing and corporate communications manager of Mischa Knight said the bank was proud to support the initiative because of its focus on practical life-saving education.
“The project is designed to teach valuable life-saving skills and emergency preparedness in a way that is engaging, practical, and empowering,” she said.
The event also featured several interactive demonstrations for the students.
A female fire officer demonstrated the proper “Stop, Drop and Roll” technique before inviting students to try the exercise themselves.
Students were later introduced to protective fire gear while another group toured a fire truck parked outside the school. Some students were also allowed to use the hose, aiming streams of water at a cone positioned in the distance, creating a moment of laughter among students and teachers alike.
Earlier in the programme, Dr. Kandamaran Krishnamurthy, Global Health Director of PGDFF Caribbean, reminded students and staff that prevention remains key.
“Always prevention is better especially with children… small things but it matters,” he said.
As a doctor, Dr Krishnamurthy said the common injuries he sees among children are skin burns and “heated fumes” in the lungs “One is the skin by burns fire. Then second, which we may not see, but as a physician, we see children coming to the hospital is the heated fumes which you inhale and you have the lung issues.”
Teacher and information technology coordinator Wayne Ifill welcomed the initiative, saying safety remains essential to the school environment.
“Safety is not only a responsibility, but a vital part of ensuring that our students are able to learn, grow, and thrive with confidence,” he said.
Patrick later explained that the Barbados Fire Service already treats the area surrounding the special needs institutions as a “silent zone” to reduce distress caused by loud sirens.
“We are conscious of the impact that those loud sirens can have on our students,” he said.
Farm to Table Program continues to thrive
PGDFF Caribbean and Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc are proud to continue supporting the Farm to Table Program at the Ann Hill School!
As we move into Year 2 of the program, which is part of PGDFF's Barbados is Blooming theme, the box gardens have been freshly repainted and students were excited to receive new T-shirts as they continue learning the importance of gardening, healthy eating, and growing their own vegetables and fruits.
Additional donations of seeds and tools were from Farm and Garden Store which is part of the Massy Group.
This initiative helps empower students with hands-on skills and responsibility. Some students used skills learnt during their internship at NCC (National Conservation Commission).
Together, we continue planting seeds for their brighter future.
Appreciation award-Republic Bank
PGDFF Caribbean proudly presented an Appreciation Award to Republic Bank in recognition of their continued support throughout 2025.
We are truly grateful for the partnership and shared commitment to empowering children and communities across Barbados.
As a proud PMAD Partner for 2026, PGDFF Caribbean is excited and looking forward to the upcoming launch of Project Bright Guard later this month — an initiative focused on safety education for children with special needs.
Accepting the award on behalf of Republic Bank was Mischa Knight, Manager, Marketing & Corporate Communications.
Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month with the theme “More Good Days, Together,” focusing on reducing stigma, promoting mental wellness, and supporting community connection.
The 5-4-3-2-1 technique is one of the easiest mindfulness strategies designed for managing stress and anxiety, as it can be done almost anywhere and at any time.
Using the five senses to ground you in the present moment, this is how it works.
April
Interactive Reading Session
As part of Phase 3 of the Barbados is Blooming Literacy Campaign in partnership with Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc, PGDFF Caribbean held a reading session at the Get Healthy Easter Camp this week.
The Clapham Resource Centre was abuzz as campers read Flying with the Prince; a book authored by President and Founder of PGDFF, Prince Godwill D Fomusoh. The children were given a copy of the book as well, which is about the flying experience of two small children and their encounter with Prince.
Campers shared their fondness of various countries and their dreams of travel. PGDFF and Massy continue to be committed to literacy with reading programmes in Barbados and beyond.
World Autism Awareness Day
March
Happy National Crayon Day
Keep colouring
World Down Syndrome Day
Each year, World Down Syndrome Day, observed on March 21, serves as a global reminder of the importance of inclusion, understanding, and support for individuals with Down syndrome. For PGDFF Caribbean, this day is more than symbolic—Founder and President Prince Godwill said "it reflects a continued commitment to empowering children with special needs through meaningful partnerships and impactful programs."
Over the years, PGDFF Caribbean has worked closely with institutions such as Derrick Smith School, Life Long Skills Training Centre, and Ann Hill School, building strong relationships rooted in advocacy, education, and opportunity. These collaborations along with valuable partners have allowed the organization to directly support students with developmental challenges, ensuring they have access to resources that promote independence, confidence, and lifelong learning.
PGDFF and Republic Bank
We are proud and honored to share that PGDFF Caribbean has been selected as one of the charities for the Republic Bank 2025–2026 Power to Make a Difference (PMAD) Program.
Being part of this initiative is truly meaningful for us, as it allows us to continue expanding our mission of supporting communities, promoting literacy, and creating opportunities for children—especially those with special needs.
Under the Power to Learn initiative PGDFF 's Bright Guard Program will equip special needs children with practical knowledge to stay safe while promoting confidence and knowledge.
The event which was held at the Courtyard Marriott was attended by Dr.Krishnamurthy Kandamaran ,Global Relief Director ,and Sushma Kini Regional Project Manager.
Founder and President, Prince Godwill Fomusoh who could not be present sent a video note of gratitude.
Leah’s Nook Dedicated at Life Long Skills Center
A special moment of remembrance unfolded at the Life Long Skills Training Center as Leah’s Nook was officially named and dedicated in honor of a beloved former student.
Earlier this year, in February, the 26th Free Little Library was installed at the center by PGDFF Caribbean in partnership with the Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc. as part of the “Barbados is Blooming” Literacy Campaign. The initiative aims to expand access to books and encourage a love of reading among children, particularly those with special learning needs.
During the ceremony, as Principal Grimes and her team looked on, Leah’s mother, Grace, unveiled the sign marking the reading space. Speaking about the tribute, she shared, “Leah loved the school, and to have her memory here is really great.”
Reading teacher Aunty Monique said "Leah was the life of the party and she loved her reading as well" and shared a story about Leah and her passing for books.
The dedication also included the donation of additional learning materials by the PGDFF Caribbean team. Mrs. Sushma Kini, Regional Project Manager, and Dr. Uma Gaur, Project Coordinator, presented the school with a set of West Indian Reader workbook series, providing valuable resources to help students strengthen their reading skills.
The installation of the Free Little Library highlights the continued commitment of PGDFF Caribbean and the Massy Foundation to promote literacy and inclusive education across the island.
February
PGDFF 2025 Appreciation Awards
PGDFF recently held its Appreciation Meet Up at Courtyard by Marriott. The evening focussed on honoring key partners of the Barbados is Blooming initiative while also sharing the impact made in communities across the island.
President and Founder Prince Godwill D. Fomusoh presented awards to the honorees and expressed PGDFF’s commitment to future projects while Managing Director Anita Sundaram reflected on the journey of PGDFF thus far.
PGDFF launched the Barbados is Blooming project in 2023 which focuses on enhancing literacy with the installation of 26 little libraries so far in Barbados. Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc. received a plaque for its vital role in this project, now in its third year of partnership. Other awardees recognised for their significant contributions are:
RBC Royal Bank (Barbados) Ltd.
Republic Bank (Barbados) Ltd.
Ministry of Youth Sports & Community
Empowerment
Affinity Credit Union Ltd.
Harris Paints (Barbados) Ltd.
Courtyard by Marriott
Kooyman
Livvi - Sarai
Mr. Shawn Brathwaite
Executive Chef Satheesh Selvam
#BarbadosIsBlooming #PGDFF
February
PGDFF Caribbean and Massy Foundation Launch Phase 3 with Literacy and Life Skills Expansion
PGDFF Caribbean, in collaboration with the Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc, has proudly launched Phase 3 of its initiative under the "Barbados is Blooming " theme—marking another milestone in advancing literacy and practical life skills for children with special needs across Barbados.
The launches were attended by Founder and President Prince Godwill D.Fomusoh who proudly saw the impact he and his team has been making on the island along with Manging Director Anita Sundaram and team members.
Also present were Project Administrator of Massy Foundation Gillian Corbin and Natalie McDowald and Tameisha Wood Members of the Massy Foundation Advisory panel.
Phase 3 was officially kicked off with the installation of the 26th Free Little Library at Life Long Skills Training. This installation represents far more than a bookshelf—it symbolizes access, inclusion, and empowerment. In addition to donating a wide range of books, PGDFF Caribbean and Massy Foundation also provided educational tool kits and West Indian readers specifically selected to support special needs students in developing foundational reading skills.
Heather Wiggins and Debbie Grimes of LLST were grateful for the donation which was done in honor of a past student who had a personal connection to a PGDFF member.
"On behalf of the staff, students and family members go the late Leah Greaves, we at lifelong wish to thank PGDFF for assisting us with the dedication of Leah’s Book Nook library. We also wish to thank the Massy Foundation for their part in making this library possible. We will forever appreciate this wonderful gift. Reading is a super power and important lifeSl skill that will broaden our students horizons".
Phase 3 also introduced an exciting new theme "The Little Chefs Initiative"—a hands-on culinary program designed to teach students essential life skills. The initiative will consist of three interactive sessions where students will learn how to cook, plate meals, and properly set a table—skills that build independence, responsibility, and pride.
This program was launched at the Derrick Smith School, where students had the unique opportunity to work alongside Chef Sateesh from Sandals Resorts and his culinary team. During the inaugural session, students learned how to prepare and plate a chicken dish, experiencing firsthand the discipline and creativity involved in cooking.
“Preparation is the key ” was reiterated by Prince Godwill on what Executive Chef Sateesh told them, reinforcing the importance of planning, organization, and attention to detail—lessons that extend far beyond the kitchen.
"Leave no stain behind":With an investment since 2023, our Massy Foundation’s support of the Barbados is Blooming initiative, including the Little Chefs programme is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to advancing literacy, nurturing talent, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow and bloom. Massy Foundation’s focus on inclusive Quality Education (UN Sustainable Development Goal # 4) by offering inclusive vocational training that equips these students with practical culinary skills. Yet it goes beyond skills—it ignites their excitement for learning, nurtures their independence, and opens pathways for their future opportunities. At the same time, the programme supports Good Health and Well-being (UN Sustainable Development Goal #3) by teaching these wonderful students nutrition and healthy lifestyle practices, ensuring they gain not only knowledge but also the tools to help them live well and thrive." Natalie McDowald member of the Massy Foundation Advisory Panel.
As the Barbados is Blooming continues to expand , one thing remains clear: true empowerment comes not only from providing resources, but from creating meaningful opportunities .
