The Minister of Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, recently visited the K Margaret Carter Centre to accept a heartfelt donation from Kenneth Pushā II, Owner of Mask'd Co., alongside the K Margaret Carter Centre Administrator Mrs. Veronica Baptista, staff, and clients.
Minister Furbert said, "The Ministry of Social Development and Seniors would like to acknowledge Mr. Pushā, affectionately known as Kentu, for his generous donation of over 50 cloth (reusable) masks to honor those living with disabilities.”
Mr. Pushā is a 21-year-old Cedarbridge Graduate who recently completed Bermuda College's Horticulture Programme and works full-time as a Skilled Labourer with the Bermuda Government's Department of Parks.
When Minister Furbert asked Mr. Pushā, "What motivated you to start Mask'd Co. and make this special donation?", Mr. Pushā responded, "I started Mask'd Co. because of my love for motocross. I began to design and purchase the masks for myself and then in January 2021, after receiving numerous compliments on my masks, I decided to start a small peddler's business to see how the masks would sell."
"My business quickly took flight, and I made a promise that once I reached my hundredth (100th) sale, I would give back to my community. I chose the K Margaret Carter Centre because I navigated learning with a disability my entire school experience, and I felt inspired to donate to others living with a disability. How reassuring that this opportunity has presented itself during Intellectual and Developmental Disability Awareness Month.”
Mr. Pushā added, "I am grateful for the teachers and paraprofessionals that helped me along my journey as they never gave up on me. I intend that this gesture will show those helping people living with disabilities that their efforts are appreciated. I also hope that my story can show those living with disabilities that I understand them and anything is possible for them."
Minister Furbert concluded, "Mr. Pushā, on behalf of everyone at the K Margaret Carter Centre and the Ministry of Social Development and Seniors, thank you for sharing your story and contribution with us."
"The success you have experienced while navigating a learning disability is a true example of resilience and inspiration. I wish you continued success and growth as you are a living advocate for those not only living with but thriving with disabilities."
Mask'd Co. can be found and contacted on Instagram @_mask_d_