Dr. Lavern Deer, a distinguished Jamaican resident of Miami Gardens, has been awarded the prestigious US Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for 2024. The presentation ceremony took place on June 28 in Miami Gardens, Florida with The United Nations Ambassador Her Excellency Rev. Dr. Coretta Mathie doing the honors.
Dr. Deer, founder of the Female Development World Organization Inc. (FDWO), has tirelessly championed causes close to her heart. FDWO, a non-profit organization, is renowned for its innovative programs designed to raise awareness and prevent human trafficking. In 2018, FDWO collaborated with Florida legislators to draft the Human Trafficking Education in Schools Bill. Thanks to their efforts, Florida became the first state to integrate human trafficking education into its school curriculum.
Beyond her anti-trafficking advocacy, Dr. Deer was one of the pioneers of a program to help bring awareness to the Reggae Girlz’s first quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. Her program galvanized local and international support, culminating in the team becoming the first Caribbean nation to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019.
Under Dr. Deer’s leadership, FDWO launched “Pathway to Change,” a transformative program that aids survivors in reconditioning their minds, bodies, and souls. The initiative works in partnership with local municipalities in Broward and Miami-Dade counties, executing impactful projects that restore hope and dignity to survivors.
Lavern Deer’s commitment to community
Dr. Deer’s community spirit also extends to organizing annual sports tournaments that bring together alumni from various Jamaican high schools for friendly competitions in Lauderhill, Florida for the last 14 years. The tournament also raises funds for charity.
Upon receiving the award, Dr. Deer expressed her gratitude, saying, “Receiving the U.S. Presidential Medal and Lifetime Achievement Award is a humbling recognition of my lifetime of dedication, service, and impact. This award symbolizes the highest honor and respect for my contributions to society and will forever serve as a reminder of my responsibility to continue striving for excellence while making a positive difference in my local community and the world.”
Dr. Deer also took a moment to thank those who have supported her journey, particularly acknowledging her mom and grandmother as the greatest influences in her life.
This prestigious accolade underscores Dr. Deer’s unwavering commitment to service and her extraordinary contributions to society, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and make a lasting impact on their communities.
