‘Giving is part of my DNA’

Consuelo Ricketts has never missed an opportunity to lend a helping hand to those in need, dedicating her life to transforming the minds of marginalised children.

The importance and value of being a lifeline to those in need was passed down from her 88-year-old mother, Veta Campbell, whom she observed as a child willingly opening the doors of the family home in Campbell Town, Westmoreland, to offer shelter or food to many persons, with some becoming an extended part of the family.

“Such acts of kindness and compassion during my childhood became a part of our DNA,” Ricketts told The Sunday Gleaner. “My mother did it effortlessly, so it became a way of life.”

Refusing to accept the notion that children deemed unruly and difficult are beyond redemption, she became a fierce advocate for the rights of the rejected. With unwavering determination, she created a haven where they could flourish and find the support they so desperately needed.

Ricketts established Eagles Wings Early Learners and Elementary in January 2012, not just as a place of learning but as a sanctuary for those rejected by the regular school system or wasting away in the state’s care.

Understanding the financial barriers that many face, over the years, she has subsidised school fees for some, ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, had access to a quality education.

Her school became a symbol of inclusivity, breaking down the barriers that had held back so many.

Over the years, Ricketts became a foster mother to countless at-risk children, who lean on her for support, protection and guidance.

GREAT FOCUS ON CHILDREN

Four years ago, Ricketts stood in the family court and wept bitterly when the recommendation was made for one of her students to be sent to a juvenile remand centre in St Andrew. The youngster was subsequently released into her custody.

In another instance, she travelled to Lucea, Hanover, for each court appearance of another student who got in trouble with the law.

“I am not able to explain why I take on some of these issues, but I just do,” the seasoned educator told The Sunday Gleaner.

“I seek to help people generally but my greater focus has been on children. My joy comes from seeing most of these students absorbing life’s lessons and making the most of the opportunities given to them.”

An intriguing character, Ricketts embodies a blend of outspokenness and compassion that sets her apart. At her core, she is unafraid to speak her mind, demonstrating a level of candour that rattles the nerves of the intimidated, yet is guided by genuine empathy and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around her.

Her frankness can sometimes be perceived as abrasive, yet those who know her well understand that her honesty is not meant to harm but to express her authentic self and stand up for the voiceless. Similarly, her kindness is not a counterbalance to her boldness, but rather an integral part of her complex personality.

Ricketts shared that her life has been marked by instances where these traits intersect in fascinating ways. For instance, she will openly challenge an injustice with fierce words, only to follow up with a compassionate act towards those affected.

Those closest to her share that her ability to navigate the delicate balance between speaking truth to power and offering a tender touch of kindness makes her beloved and sometimes misunderstood.

The devastation of losing her father in her second year at Manning’s School in Westmoreland also helped to strengthen her.

“As a 13-year-old my whole world crumbled, I could not focus, and my grades dropped,” Ricketts recalled.

But through strong family support, she was able to navigate those challenging years and develop strength of character. That experience, she said, gave her a greater understanding of how to relate to her students today.

NO ONE CAN TAKE AWAY YOUR EDUCATION

Education is paramount for the Ricketts family and the expectation is no less for the children she fosters.

“I tell my students that education is something that no one can take away and that even though their parents might be poor, there are several ways to achieve their goals,” she shared.

Outside of the halls of Eagles Wings, Ricketts also opens her home to children facing abuse or need support to attend school. There, they find not only shelter but love and understanding, the essential ingredients for healing and growth. For them, it’s a place where the boundaries between biological and foster children are blurred.

Her husband, Neville, graciously and willingly funds all her campaigns to save a life, but at the same time, he is also fiercely guarded and protective of his wife, alert to any attempts to manipulate her kind heart and generous spirit.

Ricketts’ childhood friend, Karlene Tingling, is her right hand on all her outreach projects, preparing the meals and ensuring that the needs of the children being cared for are met.

“It’s about giving these children a sense of family, hope, and the opportunity to experience the joys of childhood that they rightly deserve,” she explained.

“I just can’t help myself but to love people.”

CHRISTMAS DEAR TO HER HEART

Consuelo Ricketts holds Christmas dear to her heart.

At this time of year, she focuses on her immediate family and siblings. Each Christmas, they gather at their childhood home for a huge family get-together, an occasion she has only missed once in her 58 years.

“Yes, my favourite time of the year has always been Christmas, and it is all about my family. Maybe it was because we were poor and that would have been one of the only times, as children, that we could look forward to getting gifts. But just having everyone together, eating and playing games brings a special feeling for me,” Ricketts said, beaming with joy at the thought of tomorrow’s family gathering.

“I always seek to encourage my foster children and their relatives to spend Christmas Day together, but some of them will spend the day with me.”

For this priceless gem, the focus is not on whether Jesus was born on this celebrated day, but on the opportunity it provides for families to come together and share a special moment, enjoying quality time with each other.

Ricketts’ greatest Christmas wish is that her actions will create a legacy of love that will be passed down through generations.

mark.titus@gleanerjm.com