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Alvin Day – Helping you Soar to Success

Published

9 years ago

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BY ALYSSA MAHADEO 

“When you are born to fly, nothing less will satisfy.”

From humble beginnings to internationally renowned author, speaker and executive business coach Alvin Day is a simple man, a little boy from Jamaica, with dreams to touch the sky.

Before he was born in Kingston, Jamaica, Alvin was already at a high risk of not surviving this life. His mother, sixteen and unwed was advised against the pregnancy, told to abort, as her circumstances were less than ideal to have a child. Born fatherless, the man who he could have considered a parent made a brief appearance into his life at the age of six. He put fifty cents in his hand and then disappeared from his life forever. At eight years old, his mother packed him up with his two sisters and took them to an airport where she abandoned them and they were split up and sent to live with other relatives. He went to live with his aunt and uncle, however his uncle was a cruel man and beat him mercilessly, to the point that he almost neared his death. When he was around ten years of age his grandmother took him in where she was living in the countryside of Jamaica in Frankfield, Clarendon. Alvin recalls, “She was very wise despite not having an education, she always told me that if I studied hard, respected my teachers and trusted in God, I would be a wonderful man someday and I believed her.”

He took her advice and listened carefully to the wise words of his grandmother. She was his greatest inspiration and she put him through school on her last penny. Where they were living in the Jamaican countryside there was no running water or electricity, Alvin used to do everything by candlelight, but not once did he believe that they were poor. He kept the words of his grandmother close to his heart in everything he did and she told him he was like a caterpillar, soon his wings would come out and he would be able to fly!

Suddenly just as he was finishing his high school exams his grandmother passed away. His teachers didn’t bother with him, to motivate or encourage him to go further as they didn’t think he would amount to much.

Alvin couldn’t imagine life without his grandmother and so after he left high school he realized he was once again homeless. He couldn’t live there without his grandmother. Unsure of where to turn next, he did the only thing that seemed logical at the time. He heard that his mother was living in Wisconsin and so he traveled there to reconnect with her after all of those years. While living in Wisconsin he attended college there and obtained two degrees in Business and Spanish. Soon after he began his first job at Procter & Gamble where he worked for ten years in sales management. After working there for so many years, Alvin became hungry for independence. He decided to branch off and do his own thing, establishing his own business. God was good to Alvin, business was good and it only continued to grow and since then he has never looked back, moving forward and helping to transform the lives of others so that they too can share in the success that the world has to offer.

Today, Alvin Day coaches senior executives and middle managers to go from millions to billions. He has over thirty years experience helping people and businesses grow in North America, Europe, Asia, South America and the Caribbean. He is known internationally as a Transformational Leadership Coach & Management Consultant as well as Keynote Speaker & Author of the bestselling book, If Caterpillars Can Fly – So Can I, plus Persuasion Power and more. The inspiration for his book came from the wise words of his grandmother that he still carries with him to this day.

Alvin attributes much of his success to his grandmother, as she helped to shape the man he became today. Her wisdom ignited within him dreams and expectations for the future while also keeping him grounded and humble, a little boy from Jamaica excited to breath free oxygen and have the opportunity to travel to places all over the world.

Through his years of work and experience Alvin has helped his clients with coaching and training comprised of strategies for self-management and personal development, leadership competencies that drive excellence through people, productivity, performance, tools and processes that build collaboration between suppliers, distributors and customers.

His hope is that the words he shares will touch the lives of people that are willing to listen. Alvin delivers powerful messages of leadership, personal empowerment and sales strategies at corporations and educational institutions around the world.

Through his speeches, seminars, workshops and executive coaching sessions, Alvin shares the challenges and transformational experiences of his own life and connects directly with people’s heads and hearts, touching them on a level that few speakers ever reach.

His own desire to learn and even stronger desire to succeed is what drives him. He is passionate first and foremost about helping others reach that same level of success. With every coaching session, Alvin says that he hopes to “ignite a fire within his clients, to shake them up and disturb them, disrupting their normal patterns of thinking to get them to a place where they will grow and promote dramatic change in their lives.”

Alvin explains, “By challenging their intellect and making them uncomfortable about what they don’t know it gives them an awakening that will help to unlock their higher potential.” He compares his methods to that of a wise farmer, breaking up the ground, cultivating the land before he can sow the seed and they can reap the benefits of the teachings he has to offer. By disconnecting them from what they already know, it will present an open platform for them to accept the knowledge he has to share.  “These people are still in an embryotic state, not at their full potential” he shares, “My job is to revive the creative magic and innocence of childhood, to connect with people so they can reflect and discover what changed. He explains how people become detached from their dreams and what they really what want to achieve because the get caught up in the other responsibilities of life. “To achieve more and earn more, you must become more.”

This year Alvin Day will be the featured keynote speaker at the Toronto Caribbean Business Expo in April. For years his compelling story of rising from an abandoned childhood to a prominent, successful businessman, has inspired countless people around the world, as it models their path to success. At the expo his keynote address will touch on the power of collaboration, community and working and coming together to aid in the development of the community. In sharing his knowledge he says that it is important for everyone to know that regardless of his or her background use your strengths to find something in which you will thrive. “If you find someone who is good at everything then you’ve found someone good at nothing.” He commends humanity on their strength and also on their fear of being different. Alvin encourages people to embrace their differences and use it to their advantage especially those who immigrate to or are born here in Canada. Alvin is a down to earth, regular, goofy and relatable guy. He does not seek to intimidate, he only wishes to give people the tools to spread their wings and fly. “I master my expectations. You can’t disappoint me.”

Be sure to catch Alvin’s keynote address on April 24th, 2016 at the Toronto Caribbean Business Expo, come out and discover how we can work together sharing in the tools and resources to help our businesses flourish!

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Community News

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper visits the RIU Aquarelle Jamaica: This is going to be one hell of a ride!

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

I was sitting at my desk, with a look of pure excitement on my face. I looked at the email on the screen and read it aloud. “Jamaica, here we come! Again!” I let out a hearty laugh. I still can’t believe it. Another trip to Jamaica, the land of sun, sea, and endless joy. But this time, it’s different. This time, I’m not just a tourist. I’m representing the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, and we had been invited to experience something truly extraordinary.

Imagine this: one of the most beautiful places on earth, and one of the most luxurious hotel chains in the world. It was like a dream come true. At that point, I leaned back in my chair, a wide grin spread across your face.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing firsthand experiences of RIU’s impactful work in Jamaica. You’ll get a glimpse into the remarkable offerings of RIU Aquarelle, from its luxurious accommodations to its vibrant entertainment. Together, we’ll embark on a journey to the Orthopaedic Clinic in Negril, unwind at the Ritz Cafe, savour a delectable lunch at RIU Palace Tropical Bay, explore the wonders of the Montego Bay Marine Park, connect with the passionate team at the Jamaica Tourist Board, and dance the night away at an exhilarating White Party.

Before we dive into these exciting adventures, I’d like to introduce you to the incredible travel team who will be accompanying me on this unforgettable trip: Ian Stalker, Karen Dahdah, Michael Schoenberger, Michelle Richmond, Peta-Gai Innerarity, Ronald Fanfair, Jorge Satorre (RIU Communication Team), Albert Puig (RIU Communication Director), and Janet Silvera (Jamaica PR Consultant).

What truly elevates a trip is the company you keep. I’m fortunate to say that this press trip was made exceptional by the incredible group I had the pleasure of working with. Whether we were playfully teasing each other, engaging in friendly banter, or orchestrating lighthearted pranks, the camaraderie and shared laughter were the heart of this adventure. It was the people who made this trip truly unforgettable.

Now, let’s introduce the organization that brought this incredible group together. RIU Hotels & Resorts (which has almost 100 hotels in 21 countries) is a hotel chain that was born in 1953 with a small hotel in Playa de Palma, Spain. Their more than 60 years of experience pampering their customers in the world’s best destinations attest to the mission of the company: the well-being of their guests.

RIU Hotels & Resorts is known for many things, including: its commitment to quality, its outstanding facilities in the best beach and city destinations and its wide variety of carefully prepared dining options, but above all, it is known for providing a personalized service from the heart. Their carefully designed facilities ensure that you have everything you need, and we have created a range of services to complement your stay with great food, fun and relaxation.

The company works day in and day out to continue offering the best facilities and exclusive services. All of them offer guaranteed quality and a standard of service that will make your holiday a one-of-a-kind experience. They are designed to give you the freedom to do, eat or drink whatever you want, whenever you want. Simply put, exactly how you like it.

The service at the RIU hotel was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and efficient check-in. The staff were attentive, friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure our stay was unforgettable. The housekeeping was impeccable, the dining options were diverse and delicious, and the poolside service was prompt and courteous. The overall atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making our vacation truly memorable.

I can’t wait to soak up the sun, feel the sand between my toes, and dive into the crystal-clear waters, but most importantly, I can’t wait to share this incredible experience with all of you. Stay tuned, folks. This is going to be one hell of a ride!

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Community News

“We need more Funding!” Toronto Caribbean Festival request $2 Million dollars from the Government of Canada

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY PAUL JUNOR

The announcement that the Toronto Caribbean Festival will need more funding did not come as a surprise. CEO Mischka Crichton of the Festival Management Committee has reported that the festival may be cancelled next year if it does not receive two million in emergency funding to cover costs. In an email, she states, “Securing funding now is essential as we begin preparations for next year’s festival, including marketing, vendor and artist agreements, and material sourcing for bands and customs.”

“Budget allocations must be established well in advance to ensure that we can deliver the high-quality experience visitors expect. With inflation and production costs continuing to rise, timely financial support is crucial for sustaining the Carnival’s legacy and impact.”

In order to provide clarification about the funding, a petition was started at the website: www.torontocarnival.ca/petition. There is a pressing need of two million to cover expenses from the 2024 Carnival and $1.5 million from the federal and provincial governments to sustain it. Crichton raised the possibility that the festival may be cancelled entirely, or a few events if extra funding is not obtained. Crichton reinforced that it is important that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is maintained as a non-profit organization. She notes, “The Carnival is a community-driven festival offering mostly free events that prioritize making sure our community can afford to attend the events we do charge for, as well as cultural enrichment.”

Dr. Jill Andrew, MPP of Toronto-St. Paul raised the issue of underfunding in the Ontario Legislature on October 28th, 2024, and asked Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario to step up and fulfill his promise to increase funding to the festival. There is still no firm commitment.

The petition states, “We, the undersigned, call upon the City of Toronto, the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to provide the Toronto Caribbean Carnival with the financial support it deserves, in recognition of its cultural, economic and social impact.”  The petition outlines the significance of this festival to Canada. It notes, “For over 50 years (since 1967, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival has been a key cultural event in the city and country, attracting millions of visitors and contributing significantly to the Canadian economy. This festival not only celebrates the heritage and creativity of Caribbean people, it also celebrates what is uniquely Canadian by fostering inclusivity, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities for: small businesses, entrepreneurs, and families.”

The petition requests three things:

  • Immediate Emergency Funding of two million to cover the operational costs from the 2024 Carnival. Despite the incredible efforts of the executive team to reduce costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024, the carnival still faces a financial shortfall. The Carnival costs over three million to produce annually yet receives less than one million from the three levels of government.
  • Annual Funding of $1.5 million from the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to support the core operations of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, ensuring its sustainability and continued growth as a National Cultural Institution.
  • Funding for a Cultural Centre dedicated to preserving and promoting the Caribbean heritage in Toronto. This center would serve as a hub for education, cultural programming, and community events year-round, benefiting both the diaspora and the wider Canadian community.

The petition lists five reasons why it is important to sign the petition:

Economic Impact:

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival generates over $400 million annually for the Ontario economy, supporting thousands of jobs and hundreds of small businesses. The majority of these businesses are: Black, Brown, or Caribbean owned, making this event vital to the economic well-being of racialized communities.

Tourism and Visibility:

The Carnival brings in over two million visitors each year, making it the largest cultural event in Canada. With government support, we can elevate the Carnival’s international standing and attract even more visitors.

Representation and Inclusion:

Carnival is more than just a celebration. It stems from our emancipation and freedom from slavery and indentureship. It’s a powerful symbol of what our community can achieve. The event offers a platform to showcase Caribbean culture, while also standing as a beacon of inclusion, diversity, and respect. Government funding is not just financial support – it’s an acknowledgement of the value and contribution of Caribbean culture in Canada.

Financial Prudence:

Over the past two years, the executive team has demonstrated extraordinary financial responsibility, reducing the festival’s costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024. This frugality highlights the sacrifices made by the team and community, showcasing that the Carnival has done something extraordinary with the limited resources it receives.

Cultural Legacy:

We are asking for support not just for an event, but for an ecosystem of creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a lifeline for many who depend on its success.

The petition concludes by noting why it is important that it be signed. “You are helping ensure that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival continues to thrive, benefiting not only the local community, but all of Canada. Let’s make sure that future generations continue to experience the: magic, culture, and impact of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.”

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Children are not Democrats, or Republicans; they are kids, and their well-being must be our focus

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

In a world where trust in governance is waning, it’s refreshing to see individuals who genuinely care about the well-being of their communities. While many politicians make empty promises and cater to the elite, there are those who are committed to making a real difference in people’s lives. Today, we’ll delve into the story of a man who is determined to improve the health of his nation, even as a new administration takes the reins.

On April 19th, 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took leave from Children’s Health Defense (CHD) to run for president as a Democrat. About six months later, he switched gears to run as an independent. Then, on August 23rd, 2024 of this year, Kennedy, the longtime Democrat, suspended his campaign — and in a move that perhaps even he didn’t see coming — he endorsed former President Donald Trump.

Through it all, Kennedy remained true to his commitment: to end the chronic disease epidemic. He never wavered. For perhaps the first time in history, Kennedy gave children a voice in a national election. He reminded everyone that children are not Democrats, or Republicans. They’re kids. They’re “Swimming around in a toxic soup, and they need our help.”

RFK’s family have been harshly critical of him and view his switch over to the Republicans as a betrayal, including when he shared the unfounded claim that COVID-19 was “Ethnically targeted.” “Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment,” shared Rory Kennedy (the youngest of RFK Sr. and Ethel Kennedy’s 11 children) in a statement when RFK Jr. announced his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate.

Despite familial differences of opinion, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s resolute dedication to public health remains steadfast. His tireless efforts are centered on safeguarding the health of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens: our children.

With Trump’s support, Kennedy and his team launched the Make America Healthy Again campaign, where he vowed to do whatever it takes to get toxic chemicals out of our: food, our soil, our water and our air. He has also promised to take on the: FDA, CDC, HHS, NIH, NIAID, USDA, EPA, FCC — and any other federal agency that puts corporate profits ahead of public health.

Perhaps most importantly, Kennedy promised to get to the bottom of why 1 in 33 children in this country has autism. During the election, a member of Trump’s transition team — said that one of his first jobs, if Trump were elected, would be to gain access to the CDC’s vaccine safety data so his team can analyze it to determine if vaccines are as safe as the FDA and CDC say they are.

As we witness his efforts unfold, we can only hope that his actions will align with his words.

REFERENCES:

https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-trump-vaccines-779495533a80ba142086a9621d75a59c

https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/trump-harris-election-day-results-2024/card/u-s-food-industry-frets-over-trump-s-rfk-jr-embrace-VJx6J2SQ4w7qZz2xXHZN

https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-has-plan-make-americas-children-healthy-again-its-good-one-opinion-1957026

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4968959-rfk-jr-trump-white-house/

https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender_category/agency-capture/

With RFK Jr. Poised to Assume Key Role in Public Health, Kids Could Finally Have an Ally in Washington

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