SUPREME Ventures Foundation (SVF) has selected four people as its newest cohort of Supreme Heroes.

This followed an extensive public nomination process during which Jamaicans were invited to identify outstanding micro-entrepreneurs who are making a positive difference in their communities.

From the numerous nominations received across the island, the four were shortlisted based on their demonstrated commitment to philanthropy and social transformation.

These Supreme Community Heroes are Tishauna Mullings, chief success officer at NexxStepp Lifelong Educational Services in St Thomas; Abiathar Neita, founder of Neita’s Funeral Services and Supplies in St Ann; Nicholas Mckenzie, operator of Kritical’s Defensive Driving School in Kingston; and Tanisha Richards-Whyte, owner of Tan Tan Wholesale Enterprises in St Catherine.

“These Supreme Heroes embody the transformative power of social entrepreneurship and community service,” said Heather Goldson, director of Supreme Ventures Foundation.

“Our last two cohorts have been very impressive, and we’re very happy to welcome our third cohort of hard-working micro-entrepreneurs who were nominated by their community because of the good work they do, with very limited resources. We were very pleased with the overall quality of all the nominees this year, and anticipate another successful year with the shortlisted heroes,” added Goldson.

She noted that the project is being facilitated through Change Makers Limited, which conducted comprehensive background research to validate the new cohort, working closely with the Mona Entrepreneurial and Commercialisation Centre (MECC).

“When we launched this programme we wanted to not only celebrate those often-unsung community heroes but to also equip them with the tools to develop and expand their businesses,” Goldson explained.

“A key component of the Supreme Heroes programme is to strengthen the business capacity, in addition to providing them with grant funding that will take their social interventions to the next level. Our partnerships with Change Makers and MECC allow us to provide training and coaching across a number of basic business disciplines — from finance and marketing to leadership,” said Goldson.

The selected heroes will now enter an intensive, capacity-building phase at MECC during which they will receive specialised training to enhance their community impact. Each participant will receive a grant to execute a community project, putting their enhanced skills into immediate action.

At the conclusion of the programme participants will achieve several key milestones, including registration as both a business and charitable organisation, where applicable; development of a unique five-year business plan; along with comprehensive financial planning; enhanced knowledge of basic business practices; and a sustainable road map for future growth.

The ultimate Supreme Hero will be chosen through public voting, at the programme’s conclusion. The winner will receive a trophy and a cash grant to further their philanthropic work, ensuring there is continued positive impact on their community.