Rhomane Rutherford is a testament to resilience. Hailing from Waterhouse, a community often defined by its challenges as much as its tenacity, Rutherford has forged a path that exemplifies the power of determination. Today, he’s not just a forklift operator at Red Stripe but a symbol of hope for those navigating similarly difficult terrain.
A Childhood Rooted in Lessons
Growing up, Rutherford’s childhood was a mix of playful antics and tough life lessons. “I was the kind of kid you’d call trouble,” he admits with a laugh, recalling a particularly bold moment when he threw soap into his uncle’s fish tank. His father, a pot maker and a firm disciplinarian, ensured these playful missteps were met with guidance rather than punishment.
“He always told me to be better than him,” Rutherford shares. “I hold onto that every day.”
Navigating the Crossroads
Waterhouse, like many inner-city communities, presents young people with both opportunities and distractions. Rutherford’s focus became his shield. While others veered off track, he committed to finishing school at St Andrew College, driven by a clear vision for a better future.
“When you grow up in a community like mine, gangs and other influences can distract you. But I stayed focused because I knew what I wanted for myself,” he explains.
The Turning Point: A Leap into Forklift Training
Post-school life was no cakewalk. Rutherford took on various jobs, from delivery driving to warehouse work, barely scraping by. But everything changed when he joined the Desnoes & Geddes Foundation’s forklift training program. It was an unexpected opportunity, and Rutherford embraced it wholeheartedly.
“I didn’t know the first thing about forklifts,” he recalls. “But now, it’s like second nature.”
The program didn’t just teach him technical skills; it instilled professionalism, discipline, and a newfound confidence.
Thriving at Red Stripe
Rutherford’s time at Red Stripe has been transformative. Known for his punctuality and willingness to go the extra mile, he quickly became an asset to the company. Beyond his technical prowess, his teamwork and attitude have earned him respect among colleagues and supervisors alike.
Shamonie Robinson, Red Stripe’s raw material stores manager, is one of his biggest supporters. “Rhomane is a standout. He’s hardworking, dedicated, and an example of what happens when you combine opportunity with determination,” she notes.
A Vision for the Future
For Rutherford, his role at Red Stripe is only the beginning. He dreams of climbing the ranks and securing a stable, prosperous future for himself and his young son.
“Everything I do is for my son,” he says. “If he wanted to follow in my footsteps, I’d tell him it’s possible, but you have to believe in yourself.”
While he cherishes his current achievements, he remains determined to move beyond the limitations of his circumstances.
“In five years, I want to be in a better place. Maybe even out of Waterhouse,” he says with hope.
A Message to the Dreamers
Rutherford’s story is more than a personal triumph; it’s a message to anyone feeling stuck in their circumstances.
“Life gets overwhelming, but the worst thing you can do is sit at home doing nothing,” he advises. “Keep moving forward. Even small steps make a difference.”
From the streets of Waterhouse to the storerooms of Red Stripe, Rutherford’s journey is far from over. But one thing is clear: he’s on a path paved with grit, growth, and greatness.
