Founder & Executive Director, Rise & Thrive Dominica
Born on September 29th at St. Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, London, Simone Thomas grew up in West London, the third of four children in a close-knit household nurtured by her mother and extended family. Simone’s early life was marked by both love and loss. Her world was profoundly shaken when her mother tragically passed away just as she began secondary school. Her mother, once her anchor, protector, and greatest inspiration—was suddenly taken from her. Losing her meant more than the absence of a parent—it meant the collapse of her emotional and educational foundation. Overnight, Simone found herself under the care of her older siblings, who, while doing their best, were barely adults themselves. Once a thriving student, Simone struggled with disengagement and defiance, feeling lost in a world that no longer made sense.
It was during this dark chapter that one teacher saw what others missed—a brilliant girl buried under sorrow, not a “problem child.” That English teacher’s belief in Simone never wavered. She offered patience, consistency, and compassion that became a lifeline. Her commitment reminded Simone that educators can change the course of a life, not by grand gestures, but by showing up with compassion and believing.
That teacher’s unwavering belief in her ignited a spark that still burns brightly today. Simone is a firm believer in the transformative power of education—and in the profound impact that encouragement can have in unlocking a person’s true potential. Simone’s journey from a troubled student to an accomplished educator and leader has been nothing short of extraordinary. With degrees in Law with Sociology (LLB), a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, and a Master’s in Education (in progress), she has spent over a decade working in the classroom—leading, mentoring, and transforming lives from early years through to upper primary. Her commitment to racial equity and social justice extends beyond the classroom, having served as a Lead Facilitator for Race and Social Justice, advocating for inclusive systems that ensure every child is seen, heard, and supported.
Her most defining role, however, may be that of mother. As a single parent to six children, Simone faced one of the most difficult chapters of her life during a painful divorce. It was her educational foundation and professional resilience that enabled her to navigate that storm. That experience deepened her sense of purpose. She understood intimately the strength of women and the hidden costs of survival—especially for mothers trying to hold their families together without support. Her mission became clear: to create spaces where women and children are not only supported, but empowered to lead.
Simone’s connection to Dominica is deeply rooted. Her mother, raised by a Kalinago grandmother in Scott’s Head, and her father’s family from Mahaut and Roseau, instilled in her a profound love for the island and its people. Growing up, Simone observed the remarkable resilience of Dominican women and youth—resourceful and determined, yet too often overlooked and underserved. She saw not just struggle, but promise. That promise became the foundation of Rise & Thrive Dominica.
From humble beginnings—a small leadership workshop for children—Simone began building what is now a growing movement. Despite early obstacles, including lack of funding and resources, she leaned on her community, her creativity, and her conviction. She listened, learned, and acted. With every barrier she broke and every life she touched, she reinforced a belief that sits at the heart of her work: when we invest in people—especially women and children—we build futures that thrive.
Today, Rise & Thrive Dominica stands as a testament to Simone’s vision, courage, and refusal to let circumstances define potential. Through education, economic empowerment, mental health support, and leadership development, she is building more than programs—she is building hope, dignity, and generational change.
“This work is personal for me. I’ve lived the struggle, but I’ve also lived the transformation that happens when someone believes in you. That’s what Rise & Thrive is all about—believing in people until they believe in themselves.”
— Simone Thomas
