The Sarot/Belair community witnessed a major developmental transformation as a groundbreaking project unfolded, reshaping the transportation infrastructure and empowering local entrepreneurs.
Unveiled on April 19, 2024, at the Sarot/Belair junction, the eye-striking mural-painted, one-of-a-kind bus shelter features an elevated working space for three business owners and toilet facilities, marking a pivotal shift in the way that essential community development services can imbue pride, progress, and opportunity for economic growth.
"I must say I have never been to this community; however, someone sent me a picture from which I conceptualized the idea for the mural. But then, when I met Perry Baptiste, we started to mingle with the people as the days developed. Then the concept started to change and develop," noted Artist and CEO of Acid Creations, Ted Sandiford, who, along with fellow artist Perry Baptiste, conceptualized and brought to life via visionary & literary art the project's journey from inception to realization, reflecting a true spirit of community engagement.
Minister with responsibility for Housing and Local Government, Hon. Richard Frederick, highlighted the transformative impact community projects, such as this one, can have on the lives of residents.
"It was virtually impossible for any politician in any constituency to give everyone a handout, but when you do community projects that impact the lives of a greater set of people, invariably you positively touch their lives, and you bring greater comfort to them."
Hon. Shawn Edward, Minister for Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology, and Vocational Training, echoed this sentiment and emphasized the power of seemingly small gestures in effecting profound change.
"As the Minister for Local Government said, it was not about massive buildings and infrastructures. Sometimes, the little things we take for granted could make a world of difference in the lives of ordinary people."
Minister for Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment and Parliamentary Representative for Castries South-East, Hon. Joachim A. Henry, highlighted the new-style bus shelter project's transformative and economical empowering impact. Henry noted,
"We have transformed the community with this new bus shelter. This transformation contributes to community development. Furthermore, we have empowered people because how community residents take ownership of their livelihoods and become empowered is situated above. We have one hairdresser, two barbers, and a facility attendant to be paid. In all, we will employ four persons."
The innovative mural-painted bus shelter serves as a beacon of progress and empowerment, providing enhanced transportation services and economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs. With its unique design and multifunctional features, the project exemplifies the community development mandate of the Ministry of Equity.