Staceyan Sterling: A Beacon of Hope and Kindness

A Childhood of Contrasts

Staceyan Sterling’s life began in Jamaica, surrounded by a large family. Yet, she felt the absence of her mother, who passed away far too soon. Her childhood memories are woven with both laughter and tears — a life filled with love and loss. Amid all that, one constant remains: her mother’s voice within her.

“Always be kind to people, Staceyan, no matter what. You never know who may need your kindness.” “She was and will always be my guiding star,” Staceyan says.

No Space for Her

Growing up as one of many siblings in a financially struggling household, life was hard. Her father, the sole breadwinner, had little time and too many responsibilities. Staceyan hoped to find maternal warmth in her stepmother — but that, too, faded.

“To her, the family was him, her, and her own children.” She felt emotionally adrift and longed for support. She dreamed of becoming a nurse after finishing high school and turned to her father for help. “No,” was his only answer, influenced by her stepmother’s perspective. “I will never really know why my father didn’t help out.”

The Dream That Faded

“As a young girl, straight out of school, everything in life can be confusing. I badly needed that love, support, and guidance. I felt lost without my mother at every step.” But time taught her a difficult truth: “My regret today is not so much that my father did not help me out. My regret today is that I gave up too easily.”

Through years of reflection, hurt gave way to understanding.

“I know that at the time and under the circumstances, my father did what he thought was the right thing to do, and he did the best he could.”

Turning Pain into Purpose

A New Mission

Staceyan didn’t let her circumstances define her future.

“Everyone needs someone at some point in their lives. That is what I have learnt.”

She may not have become a nurse — but she became something just as powerful. Today, in Mississauga, she serves as a program coordinator for youth with physical and mental disabilities.

Guiding the Most Vulnerable

Working with the L.I.F.E. Program under March of Dimes Canada, Staceyan teaches life skills to young people who, like she once did, struggle to find their identity after high school.

“I want to be the mother and the guide for these young individuals. I know how it feels not to have support at such a crucial age.”

Through vocational training, first aid classes, and indoor/outdoor activities, she instills more than just skills — she instills belief.

“If There Is a Hero Among Us, It’s Staceyan.”

Building Independence

Jamie Hutchins, a fellow volunteer, captures Staceyan’s magic:

“Most people tend to spoon-feed the handicapped… They need to be told they can do everything and then taught how to do it. That is the biggest difference Staceyan brings.”

Brian, one of her students, echoes the sentiment:

“If there is a hero amongst us, then it is Staceyan.”

Her strength doesn’t come from grand gestures — it’s in the small, daily encouragements she offers.

“These are my children and there’s no way I will ever stop supporting them. All it takes is a little push.”

The Message She Carries Forward

Empowerment Through Encouragement

One student, wheelchair-bound and once unsure about his future, now attends college because of her.

Staceyan handled the forms, spoke to admissions, and paved the way. But it’s not just logistics she provides.

She gives them self-confidence. She gives them belief. She gives them purpose.

“I realize now, my dad saying no shouldn’t have stopped me. I should have found another way. There is always a way. I want my kids to know that.”

She reminds her students every day:

“You are here for a reason. There isn’t and there will never be anyone else like you.”

Kindness, Carried Forward

“I know I can’t change the world on my own. But at least I know I’m doing my bit. We must always be there, with a kind word for all, for you never know who might need that act of kindness and support.”

Her mother’s voice continues to guide her — now echoed in the voices of the youth she uplifts.

“You can do it, you know you can!”

A Life of Impact

Staceyan, you are the Hope Amidst Losses Directing Alternate Roads — an HPR HERO in every sense. From your own heartbreak, you’ve built a sanctuary of hope for others.

We salute you.

The Importance of Community Support

In a world that often feels disconnected, the role of community support cannot be overstated. We all crave connection, understanding, and a sense of belonging. Staceyan embodies this spirit. She shows us that even in our darkest moments, we can find purpose and light through helping others.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

When we extend kindness, we create a ripple effect. One act of kindness can inspire another. It can change lives. Staceyan’s journey reminds us that we all have the power to uplift those around us.

Finding Your Voice

Staceyan’s story is a call to action for each of us. It encourages us to find our voice and use it to support others. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply being there for someone in need, we can all make a difference.

The Journey Continues

As we reflect on Staceyan’s life, let’s remember that our journeys are ongoing. Each step we take can lead us closer to our purpose. Let’s embrace the challenges, learn from them, and use our experiences to guide others.

In conclusion, let us carry forward the lessons learned from Staceyan’s life. Let’s be the guiding stars for those around us, offering kindness, support, and encouragement. Together, we can rebuild community connections and inspire positive change, creating a world where no one feels alone.