Julien Alfred’s success continues to uplift those instrumental in her growth and development.
On Thursday, one of Alfred’s sponsors, First National Bank, committed to an annual financial donation of $10,000 to the SP Survivors Athletics Club as part of the athlete’s contractual agreement with the financial institution.
The initiative is part of the bank’s broader commitment to supporting local athletics at the grassroots level, as demonstrated by its sponsorship of the Island Champs Schools Athletics Competition.
Like many local sports clubs, financial backing remains a significant challenge for Alfred’s former club.
Julien Alfred’s first mentor, Cuthbert ‘Twatiné’ Modeste, leads the Survivors Club and frequently contributes from his own limited resources to support the development of Saint Lucia’s next track stars.
“She always mentions [Twatiné] when she speaks,” said Tishanna Jeffers, 1st National Bank’s Marketing and Communications Manager. “And so, as a part of Julien’s contract with First National Bank, we are proud to also announce that we will be making an annual donation of $10,000 to the Survivors.”
Expressing gratitude for the timely assistance, Coach Twatiné emphasised that the contribution will further fuel his dedication to nurturing the next generation of track stars.
He also conveyed his deep love and admiration for the Olympic gold and silver medalist, whom he played a key role in developing.
“Now I feel good. At least, you all recognized the Survivors Club and now you go see five more Juliens! “the coach exclaimed. “Juju was a child I loved from small. I used to put her by my side…She still calls me Daddy Twats…we love each other… I’m taking care of [the young athletes] because the things I do for humanity I do with all my heart.”
Additionally, Modeste reflected on his journey, recalling his path from marginalisation to now being associated with one of the most prominent names globally in track and field.
“Not everything bad comes from a ghetto. There are good things. And I maintain that,” Modeste noted.
This financial commitment from First National Bank underscores the crucial role of local institutions in nurturing young talent and sustaining grassroots athletics in Saint Lucia.
By supporting the club, the bank has strengthened its ties to Julien Alfred’s success and invested in the future of Saint Lucian track and field.
PHOTO: Cuthbert Modeste and Julien Alfred share a warm embrace after her return home last week.
“I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints” (Psalms 52:9. KJV).
Long live Saint Lucia athletics and athletes
Thanks be to God for Julien Alfred.
A little should be given to the other clubs
I know this more a marketing ploy than anything cause at this rate, this will be the only track club in a sport that is more voluntary on the part of coaches and clubs. The Ministry should respond and give each registered sport club of all sports on island with some money as well. Must by all means avoid a monopoly in sports.
Reserve for now.
Kudos to Mr Modeste, clearly he influenced the progress and success of Julien Alfred. Looking forward to more Olympic Athletes from his Club. However, the Government need to continue to facilitate the young aspiring Athletes, celebration after winning is not the only significance, but the foundation, the constant nurturing, the constant support to participate in regional and international competition will lead to more Olympic Medalist on this Island.
Julien Alfred Foundation is there to help the Sports clubs. Ppl talk alot of hot air when they don’t listen. The Foundation is there to support the athletes of St Lucia. If Twa tinay club got nothing, you all complain. Long before it was announced that Julien would receive money, you all were asking for her to build Twa tinay a house. Do you all realise this girl is only 23 and at any given point, as a professional athlete injury and medical complications example cardiovascular disease can affect her performance? She would never be able to do anything after. The girl has barely started making money and you all are asking for so much. In her young years she has already done so much!!!
…..Indeed @ smh ….and Julien was so elegant, poised, grateful and honestly humble last night at her concert. This is heartwarming gesture and just what we need for the kids , children, future rulers of this country and the world!…. I really Hope that this pride will carry on, an continue throughout the decades to come, celebrate an honor Julien and this government’s contribution regardless of which government is in charge!
Some of you St. Lucians have a lot of nerve and lack in-depth analysis on situations. Granted Mr. Modeste paid a part in her development for which she is extremely grateful. Should she build him a house because of that, she lived and went to high school in Jamaica should she also build her coach in Jamaica a house there because of that. She got the opportunity to come to the US while she lived in Jamaica.
Her current coach is in Texas ..this young lady was recruited by a US scout in Jamaica and her ultimate training and development was all in the US. Should she build the scout a house because if that? The young lady is a professional athlete…with the nonsense that some of you Lucians speak it is embarrassing. Some of you seriously need to remain in St. Lucia for real..you need to broaden your horizons.
Please understand….If she did not migrate from St. Lucia to the US ….there is no way she would have trained adequately and accomplished Olympic status …therefore all glory to God. Some of you small minded Lucians need to stop deciding what she should and should not do with her life …let the woman be. I wish nothing but the best for her. Blessings Ms. Alfred…