Lashley foundation to ‘give back’

Former Member of Parliament for St Philip North Michael Lashley KC has launched The Michael Lashley Foundation – an initiative he says is rooted not in politics, but in gratitude, community, and service.

At an intimate gathering of supporters in St Philip on Saturday evening, Lashley described the foundation as “a return to purpose” and “a continuation of the love and service” that have long defined his relationship with the constituency.

“This evening is special. It’s not a political event, it’s not a campaign. It’s much deeper. It’s a return to purpose – a continuation of the love and service that I have always felt for this constituency and its people,” he said.

Lashley, who contested and won St Philip North in three consecutive elections – 2003, 2008, and 2013 – said his commitment to the area had never waned.

“I am, and will always be, a product of St Philip North. That’s why tonight we launch The Michael Lashley Foundation, an organisation born out of gratitude, love and a deep sense of responsibility to give back to the people who helped shape me,” he added.

The foundation, he explained, aims to uplift and empower the vulnerable while promoting unity and self-reliance within the community. Its key focus areas include youth mentorship, family empowerment, community development, and care for the elderly.

“It’s more than just financial assistance. It’s about restoring hope, building confidence and creating opportunities for our young people. This is how we build stronger communities – one act of kindness, one helping hand, one project at a time,” he said.

He singled out several individuals for their work in bringing the foundation to life, including deputy chairperson Shellyann Neal and floor members Lindsay Hunte, Marva Lashley and Alfred Holder.

“They have brought wisdom, compassion and energy to this vision. This is your foundation too,” he continued.

Solve problems

Lashley said that the Foundation was not about personal ambition or politics.

“Let me be clear, this Foundation is not about me. It’s not about politics, or position, or prestige. It’s about us. It’s about showing that when we come together, we can solve our own problems and lift one another up,” he said.

Encouraging residents to get involved, he remarked: “I want every person in St Philip North to feel that they have a place in this foundation, whether you volunteer, mentor, donate, or simply encourage someone else. We all have something to give and when we give, we grow.”

Reflecting on his journey from a young boy in St Philip to a three-term parliamentarian and now philanthropist, Lashley said the Foundation symbolised his enduring bond with the people who have supported him.

“As I stand here tonight, I think about the young boy I once was, running around the villages of St. Philip, dreaming about the future. I could never have imagined then that I would one day have the privilege to serve you, not once but three times and still have the honour to serve again, in a new way,” he said.

“This Foundation is my way of saying thank you – thank you for believing in me, for walking with me and for continuing to believe in the spirit of St Philip North, a constituency that stands tall, proud, and united,” he added.

He ended with a call for unity and shared purpose. “Let’s move forward together, hand in hand, heart to heart and build something that will last for generations to come,” Lashley said. (CLM)

Head of the newly-launched foundation, Michael Lashley, outlining plans for the community.

(Picture by Shanice King.)