Despite physical challenges, Hyacinth Stoute has remained optimistic
and determined to pursue her career goals.
In 2010, at the age of 41, she operated a thriving catering business.
She was passionate about her chosen career and was eager to pursue an
academic qualification in management, which would have enhanced her
overall skills and ability to manage her business. Unfortunately, her
plans were brought to an abrupt halt.
Stoute’s plight started when she experienced challenges with partially
losing her eyesight. Her condition was diagnosed as having detached
retinas. Stoute underwent surgery, which the doctor believed would
have allowed her to regain complete vision, but the procedure was
unsuccessful.
However, in 2015, she completed three CXC’s and added a fourth subject
in 2019 and is currently enrolled at The University of the West Indies
(UWI) as a first-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in
Management.
Today, she has another achievement under her belt, having been
announced the winner of the 16th Caribbean Catalyst – Kregg Nurse
Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to an individual with a
disability who has successfully completed at least one year of
post-secondary school education, in any field, and is continuing their
formal education at a recognised tertiary educational institution.
The award always coincides with Kregg’s birthday, which is June 13.
This year, despite the impact of COVID-19, Caribbean Catalyst Inc.
remained committed to continuing the Kregg Nurse Scholarship. There
were four applications and, after interviewing the candidates and
evaluating their physical and other challenges and their academic
journeys, judges were faced with the difficult task of selecting a
winner from two enthusiastic and remarkable finalists – Caitlin Ward
and Hyacinth Stoute.
Stoute highlighted some of the challenges she faces as a result of her
disability. She has difficulty travelling alone and needs someone to
accompany her when visiting unfamiliar places. With regards to
managing classes at UWI, her primary challenge is recording and
obtaining notes for classes. She does not have a laptop or the
required devices to efficiently record notes during classes. Without
the required technology of her own, Stoute is utilising the visual aid
equipment in the Kerryann Ifill Unit at UWI, photocopying chapters and
in some cases, entire books.
Stoute also mentioned that she incurs transportation costs to travel
from UWI to her home, due to the scheduled evening classes.
Stoute presented herself as an optimistic and resilient individual;
not dwelling on her challenges but viewing them as learning
opportunities. Stoute’s words of encouragement to persons with a
similar disability is to be confident, “do not be afraid to try or do
things on your own”.
She will receive a plaque and the two finalists will each receive a
monetary contribution towards their studies.
Caribbean Catalyst Inc. extends heartiest congratulations to Stoute
and Ward and encourage them to continue to fulfil their academic
aspirations.
Kregg’s mother, Mrs. Linnell Nurse and Kerryann Ifill continue to be
active supporters of the efforts of Caribbean Catalyst Inc. as the
team works to assist the differently-abled community in progressive
ways.