We were lucky to catch up with Lisa Trotman M.A. recently and have shared our conversation below.

Lisa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Sisterhood Of Destiny, Inc. was created in 2004 and moved into the Community Space in South Jamaica in 2012., a non -profit organization dedicated to empowering women and families to pursue their purpose and fulfill their Destiny. In fulfilling the mission, Sisterhood Of Destiny, Inc. provides the South Jamaica Community with many services. Providing a safe Community Space to those in need, the organizations current roster of programs includes an Annual Back To School Book Bag and School Supplies Distribution . The Thanksgiving Hot Meals and Turkey Distribution, and its Annual Holiday Toy Drive, in which hundreds of families receive toys, hot meals, clothing and winter coats. Dedicated to empowering women and families, the organization honors and pays tribute to all women in the Community by hosting the Annual Women’s History Conference. During the pandemic, Sisterhood Of Destiny created the Feed Guy R Brewer Initiative, now a staple in the community to help fight against hunger. Each year Sisterhood Of Destiny, Inc. receives hundreds of donations from many Community Members and Community Organizations. We are grateful for the generous support which allows us to distribute hundreds of Winter Coats, Clothing, Holiday Toys, School Supplies and many other resources. Grateful for the partnerships with local community organizations, Sisterhood Of Destiny, Inc. believes “Together We Can Make A Difference in Our Communities”

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Lisa Trotman, a native of Jamaica, Queens.. I was educated in the NYC public school system. I earned an AAS Degree from Queensborough Community College,, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Organizational Management from Nyack College. In 2013 I earned my Masters Of Arts Degree with honors from St John’s University.. In 2004, Sisterhood Of Destiny was created and hosted the first women’s workshop in my mother’s living room. A vision and a small group of women started the journey.. As a Community Partner and CEO of Sisterhood of Destiny, Inc. the journey has witnessed some challenges, however quitting is never an option, when you are passionate about your purpose. I have witnessed homeless mothers acquire apartments, the youth from the previous afterschool program graduating from college, and the many individuals that have remained dedicated through the years by volunteering, all of the momentous events contribute.to the organizations success. I have received several awards for outstanding Community Service. In 2017, I was recognized as New York Person Of The Week by New York 1. I have been the recipient of numerous awards from elected officials for outstanding leadership.. I am most proud of both I and my daughter for obtaining both our Master’s Degrees in the same year. 2013. When I made the decision to apply for the Master’s Degree program at St John’s I didn’t think I would be able to complete the program. I was my mother’s caregiver, and I was getting older. I am forever thankful that I decided to keep going. On graduation day as I walked across the stage I knew I was ready to make change within my Community. I vowed to share what I learned from St John’s University. To keep the faith, inspire others, to serve, to show compassion and to offer hope . As the proud alumni of St. John’s University in 2023, I was featured in the 150th Anniversary Oral History Project, entitled, IN MY WORDS. in which I share my amazing story of changing lives through community service.
Lisa Trotman’s motto is, “If You Can Believe In Yourself, You Too Can Be Destined For Greatness”

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

As caregiver for my mother for over fifteen years I’ve learned how to be resilient. Taking care of your loved one with dementia can be very difficult. To witness my mom’s dementia journey for several years was very challenging. However I remembered how strong, hardworking, generous and caring my mother was before dementia. My mother instilled the same qualities in me and I cherished those characteristics and also applied them to my life. Most caregivers struggle and feel so alone while caring for their loved ones. I decided to turn the dark days into brighter days by celebrating the good memories and cherishing my mom for the amazing woman that she was. My mom cared for the entire community, she loved her family and would help any one that was in need. Whether words of wisdom, a home cooked southern meal or encouragement, my mother made herself available to make sure the next person felt appreciated. In October 2023 my beautiful mother transitioned peacefully. I made a decision to turn my grief into gratitude. Although grief never ends I’ve learned to cherish the moments, and remember that my dear mother taught me how to be strong, be grateful and to be kind. Life can be filled with challenges, yet with faith, strength and perseverance the possibilities are limitless.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I can remember March 2020, making arrangements to host Sisterhood Of Destiny’s Women Conference. I visited the venue and made the deposit for the Conference scheduled for the end of March. Within a few days it seemed as though the world was upside down. Although we cancelled the Conference, we were not prepared for the crisis that was unfolding before our very eyes. We were in a pandemic, everything begin shutting down and the world was summoned to stay indoors. The long days and nights allowed me to think about how precious life is and nothing should be taking for granted. In the coming months, I received a call from an organization regarding a grant application. Sisterhood Of Destiny, had never received a grant, I was asked how we were doing in the pandemic. I advised that I was caring for my mom and the grant I applied for was to help seniors and youth come together through the art of quilting. The organization advised that we would receive an emergency grant for Covid, to help with resources for the South Jamaica Community. Thereafter, Sisterhood Of Destiny, Inc. became a three year grant recipient. The grants allowed us to support the Community during the pandemic and provide resources and supplies during the crisis.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sisterhoodofdestiny.org
• Instagram: @sisterhoodofdestiny
• Facebook: Sisterhood Of Destiny Inc.