You Were Made for Such a Time as This
Melissa Darville
CEO Shiver Caribbean LLC, Top 100 Finalist EWC 2019 Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Author, Educator
Life has a way of preparing us for purposes greater than we can immediately see. Every challenge, setback, and triumph contributes to the formation of our character, shaping us into the individuals we need to be to fulfill our life's work. The story of Esther in the Bible illustrates this truth—she found herself in a position of influence at a time when her people desperately needed an advocate. Though hesitant, she recognized that she was placed there "for such a time as this." Likewise, our journeys, with their highs and lows, equip us for the calling placed upon our lives.
Reflecting on my own journey, I once believed that Shiver—the ice cream brand I nurtured from a hobby into a thriving business—was the pinnacle of my career. When the brand successfully expanded into the U.S. market through franchising, it seemed like an incredible achievement. Yet, something still felt unfulfilled. There was a missing element: the human aspect of truly helping others in a meaningful and transformative way.
Then came the AfroCaribbean Logistics Cooperative Society Ltd., an endeavor that bridges Africa and the Caribbean, forging connections that were long severed by history. This cooperative is more than just a business initiative; it is a vehicle for economic momentum, industry collaboration, cultural rediscovery, and healing. It creates an environment where conversations between our regions can happen, where trade and tourism can flourish, and where people who were once separated can come together again to build a future filled with opportunity.
This is an honorable work—a movement that revives hope for those who believed economic prosperity and business elevation were out of reach. The legacy of Marcus Garvey, who fought tirelessly for Black unity and self-sufficiency, reminds us that the Caribbean was rightfully recognized as the Sixth Region of the African Union, a testament to our enduring connection to the motherland. His vision aligns perfectly with what we are building through this cooperative—a network of shared prosperity that uplifts communities on both sides of the Atlantic.
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We are thrilled that the Marcus Garvey Institute of Human Development will be honored at the AfricaCaribbean Trade Show, a fitting recognition of their work in advancing Garvey’s vision. Their presence underscores the importance of our collective mission: to restore economic independence, create sustainable business pathways, and foster relationships that redefine our future.
Much like Esther, we may sometimes question why we are positioned where we are. But God, in His sovereignty, orchestrates every step. Romans 8:28 reassures us that "all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." We are here for a reason and now is the time to act.
Join us at the AfricaCaribbean Trade Show as we celebrate this historic moment. Let us embrace our purpose, recognizing that we were made for such a time as this. https://actradeshow.com/
TEDx Speaker | WoW talk Speaker | Author | Program and Project Management | Project strategist I Coach & Mentor
4 周Isn’t it wonderful how collaboration can unveil resources and opportunities we never imagined? Let’s ignite those possibilities together.