David Hughes

Supporting The Cherry Tree Trust has been one of the most rewarding experiences for my wife and me. I first learned about the organisation several years ago through a friend, and what immediately caught our attention was the combination of micro-loans and mentorship. Mentors have played an enormous role in both my personal and professional life, so the idea of pairing entrepreneurs with experienced business mentors made perfect sense to us.

Starting a business takes more than just having a good idea or product. Many entrepreneurs know their craft well, but may not yet have experience in areas like sales, marketing, accounting, regulations or business operations. The mentorship programme helps bridge that gap, and I truly believe that support is critical to helping small business owners succeed and grow with confidence.

What has impressed me most over the years is the dedication of the volunteers and the integrity of the organization itself. Everyone involved genuinely cares about helping people improve their lives and create opportunities for their families. In many cases, these businesses go on to employ others as well, which means the impact spreads throughout communities and contributes to the overall prosperity of Barbados.

I would absolutely encourage others to become donors and support the work of the Trust. This is a high-integrity organization that is helping people build businesses, strengthen families and create opportunities across Barbados. Being part of that journey is both fulfilling and inspiring.