By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
When Lavita Holmes, a dedicated advocate for inclusion in her rural agricultural community of Clewiston, Florida and Executive Director of Glades Lives Matter, received an invitation to be a panelist at the 2024 USAID International Conference in Nepal, Asia, she was both honored and humbled. The conference, hosted by Tuskegee University’s Dr. Olga Bolden-Tiller, Dean-College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences and Dr. CS Prakash, Dean-College of Arts and Sciences with Dr. Nar Gurung as the Project Director, in partnership with Nepal’s Agriculture and Forestry University, promised to bring together leaders in agriculture to discuss transformative gender equity and social inclusion initiatives in Asia. For Lavita, who has spent her career empowering underserved communities, this was a dream opportunity.
Small Town with A Big Heart
Lavita’s small rural community in Clewiston, where she has lived and worked for years, heard about this opportunity and unbeknownst to her began to share gifts of love towards her trip. Many said “we just want to be a part of helping Lavita represent our collective values on the global stage. This was our chance to give back and help her share her vision with the world.”
“It’s overwhelming,” Lavita said, tearing up when she became aware of all the contributions made on her behalf. “This is proof of a belief I’ve always carried; your gift will make room for you.
I’ve had the opportunity to work with Dr. Olga and her staff at Tuskegee University locally and on their campus as well. Students from Glades Lives Matter Ambassador Program have participated in Tuskegee’s summer internship. We’ve developed a relationship that I believe will continue to break boundaries. I am grateful to Dr. Olga Bolden-Tiller for her faith in my ability to be a part of their team. This isn’t just about me; it’s about showing that small communities like ours can make a global impact. When I step onto that stage, I’ll carry your love and support with me.”
Lavita will join a distinguished panel of speakers at the conference, themed “Harmonizing Culture and Change: Building Inclusive Environments for All.” Her presentation will focus on fostering inclusive learning environments in agricultural education, a cause close to her heart.
The support shown by her community reflects the core message of the conference: building inclusivity isn’t just a global goal—it starts with local action. As Lavita prepares for her trip, she is reminded daily of the power of community. “This is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together,” she said.
In December, when Lavita addresses an international audience in Chitwan, Nepal, she will carry the spirit of her small rural town with her—a poignant reminder that even the smallest communities can contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
“Lavita Holmes has been a visionary leader and mentor for 25 years, dedicated to improving lives in her community. She’s guided youth toward brighter futures, supported local businesses, and inspired others with her passion for empowerment. Her impact on the Glades community is profound, and I’m proud to see her represent Clewiston, FL, on her journey to Nepal.”
– Mayor James Pittman, City of Clewiston