We proudly introduce our Unsung Hero for St. Thomas’ Parish, Mr Donford Wilkinson of Cotton Ground Village.
Mr Wilkinson, affectionately known as Don, has served as a representative of the Bikes Not Bombs Programme, a non-profit organisation based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Through this organisation, he introduced the Earn a Bike Programme to several communities across Nevis.
The programme uses bicycles as a vehicle for social change, helping to promote economic mobility and create opportunities for marginalised individuals. Mr Wilkinson has been instrumental in establishing clubs in Charlestown, Brick Kiln, Brown Hill, and Fountain Village. When a suitable facility was not available to host the programme in Cotton Ground, he generously opened his own home to facilitate the sessions.
He continues to demonstrate his commitment to the island’s young people by facilitating a weekly programme for children from communities across Nevis every Saturday at the Jessups Playfield. Participants and their parents are also invited to take part in a leisurely community bike ride each Sunday.
Under his leadership, the Bikes Not Bombs Programme has also partnered with SKN Moves Nevis Chapter, the Department of Youth’s Easter Camp, the Department of Social Services’ Yes to Success Programme, and the Department of Community Development.
Since 2020, Mr. Wilkinson has also been involved in the ongoing Wetlands Restoration Project at Nelson Spring as a member of the St. Thomas’ Improvement Club, which has adopted the area for beautification and heritage development.
Since his teenage years, Mr. Wilkinson has been an active member of the CG Rebels Basketball Team of Cotton Ground. Over the years, he has served in several executive and management roles while also dedicating his time to mentoring and coaching the CG Rebels Youth Team. As an executive member of the Nevis Amateur Basketball Association, he has helped to successfully coordinate several basketball leagues across Nevis.
Beyond his community and sporting contributions, Mr. Wilkinson is a devoted husband and father, an entrepreneur, and the leader of his church’s Men’s Ministry. Through these many roles, he continues to serve as an outstanding role model for young people and his peers alike.
Mr. Wilkinson is truly deserving of recognition as an Unsung Hero for St. Thomas’ Parish. His selfless dedication to youth development, sports, community service, environmental preservation, and mentorship is truly remarkable.
Today, we proudly celebrate and honour Mr. Donford Wilkinson for his outstanding service and the lasting difference he continues to make in the lives of others.
