Joyce Jasmin Sullivan: “My objective is to be the very best that I can be”

Inspired by her amazing, now seven-year-old daughter, Kathrin Julia, Joyce Jasmin Sullivan opened Buttercup Day Care, Playgroup and After School Care Service to provide high-quality child-care services for parents seeking more than the norm.
“I decided to open Buttercup when I found that my needs as a parent in relation to child care were not being fully met. I prepared a list of the things that would make my life manageable and more balanced, as a mother in the work force. Then I thought, there must be other mothers like myself and I would soon find out, fathers too!”

Sullivan was determined to create a facility that provided more than a safe and secure environment for children which was convenient for their parents – it needed to be a place where minds were nurtured and imaginations soared on a wave of love and laughter.
“Buttercup Day Care, Playgroup and After School Care is a great place for children!” The former Queen’s College student, whose goal is to be the leading daycare provider in Guyana, proudly stressed. “We focus on creating an environment that is fun, comfortable, and safe. We encourage each child to be independent and responsible and we provide an atmosphere where children are free to express themselves. Our goal is to prepare our children for their educational and social journey towards nursery life. We also support our parents as they strive to ensure that their children receive the very best care available along with a happy childhood. Our activities at Buttercup involve parents without infringing on their professional commitments.”
The registered facility caters for children from 17 months to eight years old, providing in addition to day-care and playgroup services, after-school care for nursery and primary children from 12:00h to 18:00h (12:00pm to 6:00 pm) at affordable prices. It also offers pick-up at selected schools, small class sizes, and Saturday child care.
“Parents recognise our standards from the moment they enter Buttercup’s premises and would support us by choosing our child-care facility,” Sullivan explained when asked about the response to the services offered.
The 34-year-old East Bank Demerara resident, whose warmth and touch of whimsy translate well to the young minds of which she has charge, supervises a staff of four carefully-chosen, professionally-trained caregivers and as always strives to be the best at what she does – offering premium child care and employment.
“My daughter … propels me to develop all aspects of myself and my life and pushes me to achieve my full potential. After all, if I tell my daughter that she can achieve her dreams, then so can I!” the arts-and-crafts loving mom said.
Asked how she juggles her many roles, Sullivan said she planned and prioritised “daily, weekly, monthly and yearly” maintaining focus on her daughter, as well as created and followed daily routines! “My objective is to be the very best that I can be, not to be perfect, acknowledging that, helps me to maintain a balance.”
“Success is achieving a balance between family life and business. It’s a feeling of satisfaction and fulfilment in the varying parts of my life: spiritually, volunteering, studies, family, friends, etc.”
She said she has learnt four main lessons: “1. Communication is key in all relationships: parents to children/parents to caregivers/caregivers to children, etc. 2. Be flexible and open to changes. Child care is a dynamic field and being able to adapt can determine your level of success. 3. Choose wisely when building my team. My team is a reflection and extension of my vision and principles. (and) 4. There are institutions in Guyana that are established to guide businesses. It is important to liaise with them to receive as much information and help as necessary.”
And her advice to those thinking of starting their own businesses? “Starting a business is an exciting endeavour. My advice would be to ensure that you have a deep passion for your prospective business. Be positive and brave, do your research and seek a mentor.”
The gutsy ‘mompreneur’ highlighted that “a strong, positive attitude” was essential, further noting that easy-to-attain funding; free seminars on business management, financial management and information technology for small businesses; and subsidised resources would surely ensure a level of success for entrepreneurs.
Contact: Lot 56 Pere and William Streets, Kitty, Georgetown, Guyana; 664-0580; www.facebook.com/ButterCup-Day-Care-Play-Group-and-After-School-Service