SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR & SEXUALITY

This story is a collaboration of myself, Nicholas Ramcharan and Akeme Clarke-Abdulla.

Looking at the impact gays and lesbians have made in today’s society, it is really a step in the direction of accepting the choices many make.  My colleague Akeme Clarke-Abdullah, Nicholas Ramcharan and I decided on zeroing-in on one such individual, who has really stamped their mark in Trinidad, proving that they can be a force to be reckoned with, no matter their sexual orientation.  Though birthed as a male, Jowelle now goes by the name of Mrs. Jowelle De Souza, a lovely person who defied all odds and storms which came her way. Making a bold step, of not only choosing to love and be with someone of the same sex; he was the first Trinidadian to take a total sex change, going under the knife transforming himself to have the features of a female.

Jowelle did not only come under heavy scrutiny and criticism from nationals of T&T, but was ridiculed and laughed at when on the streets. Though much negative comments were targeted to Jowelle, it saw her taking everything in strides, to becoming the success she is today. Known for being an animal rights activist, she has a big heart, caring for abandoned and stray dogs, and hoping that people would become more educated on dealing with animals that are sick, and not abandon them on the wayside. She was interviewed on numerous occasions on national television, encouraging people to be more caring and show compassion for the animals. Not only this, but Jowelle is a well known hairstylist, located on Independence Avenue, San Fernando. You can see her newly renovated building, decorated in bright beautiful colours and lots of flair when driving by. Her work is immaculate and speaks for itself, proving to others that anything is possible once you put your mind to it, while fusing it with lots of passion. Jowelle’s clientele consist of prominent ministers, business women and men, doctors, as well as any individual wanting to get that fresh new modern style for their weddings, graduation, dinners, parties etc. A very hard worker, Jowelle arrives early to ensure she is able to facilitate her clients who want an early appointment and leaves late for the ones who can only make it after work. Jowelle’s work ethics show, that sexual preference has nothing to do with becoming a successful entrepreneur; it’s all about hard work, dedication, commitment and supporting your cause.

Today, Jowelle embarks on a journey to “change San Fernando into the incredible city that it should be.” She is on the campaign trail to become the next Independent Councilor for San Fernando West, and is rallying support from the people of San Fernando to make this endeavour a success. Thus far, she has been receiving resounding responses and encouragement from individuals who have been backing her 100%. This is just another, of the many achievements that Jowelle has accomplished thus far. Jowelle was also the recipient of the hummingbird medal (bronze) for her long-standing and selfless devotion to animal rights in this country (Trinidad). It is amazing to see the day has come, when a person’s sexual preference no longer became a factor in a person’s ability to be successful. Society is becoming more accepting; people are now making the effort to educate themselves on sexuality and preferences before passing judgment. Jowelle is just one of the many successful entrepreneurs who have a motivating story; we do wish her the best in all her endeavours undertaken. Cheers to you Jowelle de Souza for being another beckon of hope for those who are struggling with a similar situation.

 

Feel free to check out Nicholas Ramcharan’s blog at  http://jobsandcareerstt.blogspot.com/

and Akeme Clarke-Abdullah’s blog at http://getinspiredentrepremeurs.blogspot.com/2014/09/introduction.html

 

For those who missed the award article, here’s Express newspaper’s link to the story http://www.trinidadexpress.com/letters/Animal-activist-Jowelle-deserving-of-award-273667911.html