‘Be Intentional: Torpedo Loan founder urges Jose Marti students

Founder and managing director of Torpedo Loan, Rohan Silvera, has encouraged students pursuing business studies at Jose Marti High School to adopt an intentional approach to their education.

Founder and Managing Director of Torpedo Loan, Rohan Silvera, has encouraged students pursuing business studies at Jose Marti High School to adopt an intentional approach to their education. Speaking at a recent Motivational and Guided Painting Session for Grade 10 and 11 business students, hosted by the Torpedo Loan Foundation at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Silvera emphasised the importance of focus and resilience in achieving success in today’s competitive environment.

“I started several businesses and they failed, to fail at something does not make you a failure, I started a sports bar, a restaurant…, I sold scrap metal…, they all failed, but I kept going, success does not mean you won’t fail, it is continuing to work towards your goals, it is about being intentional, you can raise capital by holding fundraisers, by leveraging partnerships, the most important thing is to trust in God and keep pushing forward. We have all experienced uncertainty, not quite certain about next year, but God has given you life, so pray and hope God gives you life tomorrow,” Silvera noted. He said more important than having lots of money and other requirements to invest in a business, being focused was most critical, as that would strengthen them to keep going when the going got rough.

He also advised students to explore creative ways to raise capital, such as organising fundraisers or forming partnerships, and highlighted the importance of trusting in God and persevering through challenges. “We’ve all experienced uncertainty, but as long as you have life, you can keep pushing forward,” Silvera noted.

The Torpedo Loan Foundation Chairman further encouraged students to value their education and the sacrifices made by their parents. “Don’t waste time, and be mindful of the company you keep. Surround yourself with people who have positive goals, work hard, and don’t fear failure,” he said.

The event featured additional motivational talks from accomplished professionals. Investment advisor at Sagicor Life, Cleon Walchie, shared his journey of overcoming personal fears, including public speaking, to become a renowned presenter with Toastmasters International. “You need to discover your ‘why.’ What is your dream? Remember, you don’t rise to the level of your dreams, but fall to the level of your systems. Let today be the best version of you,” Walchie advised.

Businesswoman Antoinette Ennis encouraged students to maintain a strong vision and be diligent and persistent in their efforts, while Pastor Valin Smith shared his inspiring journey. Denied entry into the army due to flat feet, Smith later achieved business success, owning a chain of supermarkets in the Netherland Antilles.

The Torpedo Loan Foundation currently supports over 100 children from underserved communities in St. Catherine, investing approximately $1 million monthly. Through an arrangement monitored by parents and schools, the foundation ensures that students have the necessary financial resources and supervision to attend school regularly. This includes providing lunch money, bus fares, and school supplies.