Alta says ‘Farewell Tim’
Saying farewell is never easy. In the NGO sector, saying farewell to a valued resource is especially difficult, as there are few hands, hearts and heads willing and available to do a great deal of work.
Alta was recently confronted with this challenge with the retirement of Hamilton T Padmore, called “Tim” by those who know him, after almost two decades of service.
Tim’s exemplary work as a tutor and training facilitator has had a lasting impact on the students he served.
In his role as board treasurer, he has helped determine the association’s trajectory, setting systems in place to steer Alta through financial ups and downs.
At ALTA’s 2023 virtual AGM on November 4, Tim presented his final treasurer’s report. He was celebrated with a video tribute, including a thank you from one of his past students.
Operations manager Tejumade Hendrickson fondly recalls the life lessons she received from her interactions with Tim.
“One, be prepared. He would always say stand ready to tackle any question that may come your way.
Two, be a world-class citizen, show respect to others and help as many persons as you can. Three, focus on the seven Fs: family, finance, fitness, formal and informal education, friends and fun.”
One of Tim’s former students, Peter Sterling, shared his sentiments.
“Mr Tim exposed me the new words and songs of letters that helped me improve my vocabulary, so much so that I can fill out my report sheet at work and read my Bible without asking my children and my wife for help.”
Alta board member and legal advisor Marise Warner was honoured to salute Tim for his contribution.
“You have been an integral part of the machinery that ensures Alta has a reputation not only as a stellar service provider, but also as a robust and resilient organisation.”
Co-tutor Raphael Sookram spoke about his experience with Tim in the Alta classroom.
“Adept in the various teaching skills, when the master was at work, you could only watch and learn as he engaged our students. And learn I did. Ultimately, teaching alongside Tim brought out the best in me, and I became a better Alta tutor and a better human being for it.”
Alta founder and CEO Paula Lucie-Smith summed up Tim’s essence, noting his ability to “bring out the best in others—and he has certainly brought out the best in me, in all Alta people and in Alta itself!”
As is his way, Tim was well prepared for the occasion and delivered the following heartfelt message:
“One, be prepared. He would always say stand ready to tackle any question that may come your way. Two, be a world-class citizen, show respect to others and help as many persons as you can. Three, focus on the seven Fs: family, finance, fitness, formal and informal education, friends and fun.”
— ALTA Operations manager Tejumade Hendrickson
Ladies and gentlemen, today, as I stand before you, a whirlwind of emotions fills my heart.
Over the past 17 years, the Adult Literacy Tutors Association has been more than an organisation to me. It’s been a home, a family and a source of profound growth. I’ve had the privilege to wear multiple hats during my time here as a dedicated tutor, a fervent advocate for professional development and a responsible treasurer on the board of directors.
The journey has been extraordinary, marked by the smiles of the students breaking down literacy barriers, the camaraderie among tutors, and the tireless efforts of our leadership team to uplift the Trinidad and Tobago community.
This organisation has not only given me the opportunity to serve but has also granted me lifelong membership to a network of professional individuals who share a common goal.
As I step away from my active roles, please know that my gratitude knows no bounds.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of something bigger than Tim, for trusting me with responsibilities that have enriched my life beyond measure. The memories we have created, the lives we have touched and the impact we’ve made will forever resonate within me.
Farewell, dear friends, but not goodbye! My journey as a lifelong member continues.
I will carry the spirit of this association with me always, cherishing this guideline suggested to tutors “You are not the Sage on the stage but a Guide on the side.”
With heartfelt thanks, Hamilton T Padmore (Tim)
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a tutor, joining a class, or becoming a sponsor, call 624-2582 or email altapos.tt@gmail.com • Keep up to date with Alta on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: Alta TT
Alta was recently confronted with this challenge with the retirement of Hamilton T Padmore, called “Tim” by those who know him, after almost two decades of service.
Tim’s exemplary work as a tutor and training facilitator has had a lasting impact on the students he served.
In his role as board treasurer, he has helped determine the association’s trajectory, setting systems in place to steer Alta through financial ups and downs.
At ALTA’s 2023 virtual AGM on November 4, Tim presented his final treasurer’s report. He was celebrated with a video tribute, including a thank you from one of his past students.
Operations manager Tejumade Hendrickson fondly recalls the life lessons she received from her interactions with Tim.
“One, be prepared. He would always say stand ready to tackle any question that may come your way.
Two, be a world-class citizen, show respect to others and help as many persons as you can. Three, focus on the seven Fs: family, finance, fitness, formal and informal education, friends and fun.”
One of Tim’s former students, Peter Sterling, shared his sentiments.
“Mr Tim exposed me the new words and songs of letters that helped me improve my vocabulary, so much so that I can fill out my report sheet at work and read my Bible without asking my children and my wife for help.”
Alta board member and legal advisor Marise Warner was honoured to salute Tim for his contribution.
“You have been an integral part of the machinery that ensures Alta has a reputation not only as a stellar service provider, but also as a robust and resilient organisation.”
Co-tutor Raphael Sookram spoke about his experience with Tim in the Alta classroom.
“Adept in the various teaching skills, when the master was at work, you could only watch and learn as he engaged our students. And learn I did. Ultimately, teaching alongside Tim brought out the best in me, and I became a better Alta tutor and a better human being for it.”
Alta founder and CEO Paula Lucie-Smith summed up Tim’s essence, noting his ability to “bring out the best in others—and he has certainly brought out the best in me, in all Alta people and in Alta itself!”
As is his way, Tim was well prepared for the occasion and delivered the following heartfelt message:
“One, be prepared. He would always say stand ready to tackle any question that may come your way. Two, be a world-class citizen, show respect to others and help as many persons as you can. Three, focus on the seven Fs: family, finance, fitness, formal and informal education, friends and fun.”
— ALTA Operations manager Tejumade Hendrickson
Ladies and gentlemen, today, as I stand before you, a whirlwind of emotions fills my heart.
Over the past 17 years, the Adult Literacy Tutors Association has been more than an organisation to me. It’s been a home, a family and a source of profound growth. I’ve had the privilege to wear multiple hats during my time here as a dedicated tutor, a fervent advocate for professional development and a responsible treasurer on the board of directors.
The journey has been extraordinary, marked by the smiles of the students breaking down literacy barriers, the camaraderie among tutors, and the tireless efforts of our leadership team to uplift the Trinidad and Tobago community.
This organisation has not only given me the opportunity to serve but has also granted me lifelong membership to a network of professional individuals who share a common goal.
As I step away from my active roles, please know that my gratitude knows no bounds.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of something bigger than Tim, for trusting me with responsibilities that have enriched my life beyond measure. The memories we have created, the lives we have touched and the impact we’ve made will forever resonate within me.
Farewell, dear friends, but not goodbye! My journey as a lifelong member continues.
I will carry the spirit of this association with me always, cherishing this guideline suggested to tutors “You are not the Sage on the stage but a Guide on the side.”
With heartfelt thanks, Hamilton T Padmore (Tim)
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a tutor, joining a class, or becoming a sponsor, call 624-2582 or email altapos.tt@gmail.com • Keep up to date with Alta on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: Alta TT