Read & Lead Literacy Academy (RLLA) isn’t just a literacy academy. It’s a community built on the belief that literacy is the foundation of success. Founded with the goal of bridging the gaps in literacy education, RLLA offers private reading classes for readers of all abilities, group reading classes, phonics clubs, support in all subject areas for infants to Standard 1, and tailored literacy interventions to help children develop strong foundational skills.
More than just an educational space, it’s a safe place where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and every child feels valued.
As a Muslim-owned brand, RLLA also stands as proof that Muslim women can achieve excellence without compromising their faith. The academy was created to raise awareness about the importance of literacy and to lead the way in ensuring that every child it works with gains the skills needed to become a confident, literate leader of tomorrow. The name itself, Read & Lead Literacy Academy, reflects this vision. A reader is a leader, and strong literacy skills enable children to succeed in all areas of life.
Running RLLA isn’t a full-time venture, but it requires full-time attention to make a difference in future generations. Juggling the academy alongside being a student, mother, wife and employee has its days, but faith, intentional organisation and a passion for literacy keep it going.
The inspiration behind RLLA came from the growing number of children struggling with literacy. Without a strong foundation, how could they excel in other subjects? Recognising this gap and knowing that the right strategies could change lives, RLLA was born to prioritise literacy, develop critical thinkers and equip children with the practical skills they need to reach their full potential.
The impact speaks for itself. Some children have shown remarkable progress soon after joining the academy. Others, including those on the spectrum, have improved their speech and communication skills through structured literacy strategies tailored to their needs. RLLA continues to grow, proving that dedication and the right approach can make a real difference.
Entrepreneurship has been a journey filled with lessons. One of the biggest? Just start. There will always be doubts and challenges, but commitment and consistency are essential. Even when no one seems to be watching, showing up and putting in the work will pay off. Adaptability is another key lesson. Every child learns differently, and the same applies to business. Success requires constant learning, innovation and a willingness to meet the needs of the ones I serve.
For anyone thinking about starting their own venture, the advice is simple – start before you feel ready. Be confident in your potential. The perfect time doesn’t exist. Entrepreneurship demands resilience, patience and the ability to learn from failures. Growth happens outside of the comfort zone, and staying committed to the vision, the passion and personal values is what leads to real success.
A brand isn’t just a business. It’s an identity, a reputation and an experience. It’s how people perceive the work, the emotions they associate with it and the lasting impact it leaves. A strong brand is built on authenticity, consistency, purpose and faith. While a business sells products or services, a brand builds connections, trust and loyalty. It’s transformational rather than just transactional.
Trinidad and Tobago’s brand community is filled with creativity and innovation, but there’s always room for growth. More collaboration, greater support for small business owners and adaptability to changing trends will help local brands expand even more. The business world is constantly evolving, and stepping out of comfort zones is key to keeping up. With better networking opportunities and increased visibility, local entrepreneurs can reach new heights.
As for what’s next for RLLA? There are exciting plans in the works. To stay updated on upcoming events and initiatives, following on social media is a must. I extend my hand and invite you to be a part of the leaders of tomorrow.
