Hustle to hope

When Kadeem Henry reflects on his journey, the first word he uses is not ‘success’ or ‘achievement’, it is ‘survival’.

A trained graduate with a Bachelor of Education in Special Education from The Mico University College, he stands as an example of what it means to rise from humble beginnings and pursue higher heights against the odds.

Henry grew up in a household led by a single mother, who worked tirelessly as a higgler at the Coronation and Port Antonio markets to provide for her five children. Those early years were defined by sacrifice and perseverance.

“Watching her hustle every day shaped my work ethic and determination,” he said.

His transition to high school brought new challenges.

At Titchfield High School, Henry found himself navigating bullying and isolation. As the only male student from St Thomas attending the school at the time, he stood out in ways that were often painful.

“I was frequently bullied because of my appearance and where I was from. Students called me names, like ‘Rat’ and ‘Micey’. It hurt deeply, but when some called me ‘St Thomas’, I embraced it. That name gave me a sense of identity,” he said.

The constant teasing and emotional strain eventually led him down a troubling path. He began skipping classes and spending time in an out-of-bounds area known as the ‘Battery’, where he became involved in gambling, smoking and fighting.

His academic journey at Titchfield ended prematurely. In 2004, he transferred to Happy Grove High School, but left with only two Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) subjects and without formally graduating.

After leaving school, Henry entered the workforce, taking on whatever jobs he could find. He cut cane, picked coffee, sold in the market, worked on market trucks, cooked in school canteens, baked puddings, and pushed a handcart in downtown Kingston.

“I wore many hats because I had to survive. The work was physically demanding, stressful, and often paid very little. I knew I didn’t want to remain in that situation for the rest of my life,” he said.

Becoming a father 12 years ago was the turning point that reshaped his outlook.

“When my daughter was born, everything changed. Providing for her motivated me to become more ambitious and focused. I wanted a better future for both of us,” he said.

DESIRE IGNITED

Those years of hustling taught him discipline, responsibility, and resilience, but they also ignited a desire for education and stability.

Henry had always dreamed of becoming either a soldier or a teacher. After several unsuccessful attempts to join the Jamaica Defence Force, he decided to focus on improving his academic qualifications.

While working in a school canteen during the day, he attended evening classes at St Thomas Technical High School to complete five additional CXC subjects.

“First and foremost, my faith in God inspired me to pursue a bachelor’s degree. My daughter was also a major source of motivation. I wanted to be a positive role model for her,” Henry said.

In 2019, he applied to The Mico University College and was accepted the following year, a milestone that marked the beginning of a transformative chapter.

University life brought new challenges. Balancing work, fatherhood, and academic responsibilities often pushed Henry to his limits.

“Travelling by public transportation from eastern St Thomas to college was physically draining. There were times when I couldn’t help my daughter with her schoolwork because of my own coursework or exhaustion,” he said.

One particularly difficult moment stands out. Henry missed an online in-course test twice because he had to sell breadfruit and plantains at the market to earn a living.

“I broke down in tears and explained my situation to my lecturer. She gave me another opportunity to complete the test. I am forever grateful to Dr Osbourne, who passed before seeing me graduate,” he said.

That moment became a defining reminder of the power of compassion and second chances.

Throughout his journey, Henry leaned heavily on faith and community support.

“I prayed about my courses, group work, and examinations. My church family supported me through prayer and financial contributions when needed,” he said.

FAR FROM OVER

A church sister even opened her home to him for two years during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing him to attend online classes by using her laptop.

“That act of kindness made a significant difference in my academic journey. I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported me,” he said.

Henry credits his diverse work experience with preparing him for university life.

“The marketplace taught me confidence and resilience, while the kitchen taught me discipline, time management, and attention to detail. Those lessons translated directly into the classroom,” he said.

He also found strength in the encouragement of friends, relatives and neighbours, who celebrated his progress once they learnt he was attending college. “Their words of affirmation motivated me to continue striving for excellence,” he said.

Completing his degree was a moment Henry describes as indescribable. “I felt elated, accomplished, and victorious. Given the struggles I endured, I felt like a conqueror, someone who overcame adversity to reach a significant milestone,” he said.

Henry’s journey is far from over. His next step is to pursue a Master’s Degree in Educational Management at The University of the West Indies.

“My goal is to begin the programme in September,” he said.

He is particularly passionate about giving back to his community through education. With a specialisation in special education, he plans to implement reading and remedial programmes for children, and create initiatives to support those living with disabilities.

“Many families from low socio-economic backgrounds struggle to afford specialised institutions. I want to make these programmes accessible and affordable,” he said.

Henry hopes his story inspires young people from grassroots communities. “I want them to understand that with faith in God, determination, ambition, and hard work, nothing is impossible,” he said.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com