IN addition to supporting employees’ development, and going beyond the confines of their office walls, Derrimon Trading Company extends their reach into the surrounding community through their subsidiary, Sampars Cash and Carry. Through this arm, they sponsor the Self-Reliance Youth Development Organisation, an initiative centred on the transformative power of education.

A beneficiary of their 2023 cohort is Kemone Wallace, a bright student with dreams as ambitious as her spirit.

Wallace, a proud alumna of Merl Grove High School, has overcome significant challenges to pursue her dream of studying accounting at the University of Technology (UTech).

“The experience of education for me is bittersweet,” she said, reflecting on her journey. “Though this is so, in the end, it is always worth it, and my job is to make the best of it. Online school was really difficult for me, but through that, I did my best. Additionally, I do live in a volatile community, but I have decided that I will not allow that to define who I am.”

Ian Kelly, Derrimon’s group chief financial officer, took the initiative at their recent awards ceremony to set a challenge for students sitting their Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations – to achieve five grade ones or more. Wallace not only rose to the occasion, but surpassed all expectations by achieving an outstanding eight grade ones. As a token of appreciation for her hard work and remarkable achievement, she was awarded a $100,000 scholarship by Kelly. Moreover, in recognition of her talent and dedication, she has been offered an internship opportunity within the accounting department, aligning seamlessly with her academic pursuits at UTech.

As a man who hailed from rural Jamaica and has achieved his success through hard work and the contributions of many, Kelly saw his contribution to the nation’s development as a big responsibility.

“I think it is important that when I see talent, I must do whatever I can to advance and influence it with the little that I have. I am passionate about giving back and it is our culture here at Derrimon to give back to our community. By doing this for Kimone it will transform her family and aid her to achieve the future that she deserves,” shared Kelly.

Wallace will continue to receive academic support throughout her academic journey at UTech, contingent upon her continued maintenance of exceptional academic performance.

In a world where corporate success often overshadows community welfare, Derrimon stands out as a beacon of hope, embodying the values of empowerment, education and excellence. For years, the company has been on a relentless mission to uplift and inspire the youth within and beyond their immediate communities in Kingston.

At the heart of Derrimon’s success story lies a unique culture, one that nurtures a sense of family and support among its employees. This environment has not only fostered the growth of countless professionals, but has also become a catalyst for nation-building.

Derrimon’s commitment to employee satisfaction and growth is evident in their dedication to offering opportunities for advancement. This dedication has allowed numerous young professionals to rise through the ranks, with some now serving in senior management roles.

Otema Thompson, group financial controller, a testament to the transformative power of Derrimon, embarked on his journey with the company in the mid-2000s. Starting as a young accountant, Thompson vividly recalls his beginnings.

“If I had to do it all over again, I would start over as a young accountant at Derrimon. I have learned a lot, and it has helped to develop my career in a very positive way, and I have also received support from the company in more ways than one – including the advancement of my education,” he said.

Derrimon’s story is not just one of corporate triumph, but a testament to the transformative power of community support and education. As they continue to shape futures and uplift communities, they serve as a shining example of what true corporate responsibility looks like in action.