For Sanya Goffe, a distinguished attorney known for her expertise in law and justice, true fulfillment comes from her work outside the courtroom. Together with her husband, Gavin Goffe, she runs the Adult Learning Centres of Jamaica (ALC), a charity dedicated to adult literacy. This passion project brings her unparalleled joy and satisfaction.
The inspiration for their literacy initiative began during Sanya’s time at The University of the West Indies, Mona. Gavin, then a fellow student, made an impassioned plea for volunteers to join the Jamaica Movement for the Advancement of Literacy (JAMAL) Foundation. His memorable response to a query about payment—“Yep, you get paid richly, dividends of the heart”—left a lasting impression on Sanya. This profound idea of heart-based rewards has guided their work ever since.
In 2008, the couple established ALC, which originated as a satellite center of the Jamaican Foundation for Lifelong Learning (JFLL). The charity operates out of the Swallowfield Gospel Chapel on Swallowfield Road in Kingston, providing classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 pm to 8 pm.
Reflecting on their early days, Goffe recalled the significant need for basic digital skills among adults. “Back then, many didn’t have access to mobile phones or the Internet, so we provided desktop computers to help them get acquainted with technology,” she said. “We had adults in their 70s who couldn’t even write the letter ‘A’. Some had gone through primary or secondary school but needed a refresher, while others simply wanted to help their children with homework or read to them.”
The couple’s vision for ALC was to offer a space where adults could gain functional literacy skills essential for daily life. “Having literacy gives you independence. You can read and understand things yourself, make informed decisions, and access information easily,” Goffe explained.
Although Sanya now focuses on administrative aspects, the centre thrives thanks to the dedication of her mother, Jackie Young, who serves as the principal, and a team of committed volunteers. They offer mathematics and English classes at basic and intermediate levels. “Our teachers are incredible. Despite their own challenges, they come each week with dedication and a commitment to their students,” said Goffe.
ALC is not focused on issuing diplomas or degrees. Instead, its success is measured by the personal achievements of its students. “The real victories are the improvements in our students’ lives. Being able to read a passage from the Bible or help their children with homework is what matters most to us,” she said, sharing a poignant moment when a 77-year-old participant learned to write her name and engage more fully in society.
Minister of Education and Youth Fayval Williams notes that Jamaica’s overall literacy rate stands at 88 percent. Goffe encourages anyone struggling with literacy to visit ALC and take that crucial first step towards transformation. “Our quorum is one. If one person shows up, we’re here to teach. We will register you and support your journey regardless of when you arrive,” she said.
Sanya Goffe’s work with ALC exemplifies her deep commitment to making a difference. “Teaching people who genuinely want to learn highlights the blessings we have. It brings into focus the freedom and empowerment that come with literacy,” she reflected. For Goffe, every small victory achieved by her students is a profound reminder of the impact of her work and the true rewards of giving back.
