America news, New York, NY, Friday. September 27, 2024: “My personal journey has taught me that the greatest gift we can give to others is to give of ourselves. That’s why making it my life’s mission to do just that – whenever and however I can – has become my top priority,” says Caribbean immigrant philanthropist and corporate executive Audrey Tomlinson.
A native of Jamaica, Tomlinson, who serves as Vice President of Human Resources and General Services at Nippon Life Insurance Company of America, has built a successful career spanning more than 25 years, all while maintaining a commitment to serving community and helping those in need.
“As I rose through the corporate ranks, balancing family, work and community activities was very difficult,” she recalls. “But after the life-changing changes brought on by COVID, my priorities shifted and I became much more intentional about what really matters.”
Miss Audrey Tomlinson. (Photo courtesy of Ian Buddington)
Tomlinson credits much of her service effort to her husband, Trevor Tomlinson, an IT director at the Connecticut Children’s Learning Center, saying, “He is deeply involved in philanthropic work within the Jamaican diaspora in New York and serves as my inspiration to make a difference.”
Despite her dedication, Tomlinson was once reluctant to identify as a philanthropist, believing that “philanthropy” was reserved for the ultra-wealthy. However, her perspective has evolved. “Whether it’s money, resources, professional expertise, or just your time, the term still applies,” she says. “You don’t need to be rich to have a significant impact. You can have two dollars and change your life, because you gave of yourself”.
Born by Dr. Artnel Henry and Merle Henry, Tomlinson grew up with the belief that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Her parents instilled the value of helping others, often opening their home to young people in need. These lessons shaped her early volunteer efforts, which began during her time at Stella Maris Preparatory School, where she taught adults through the Jamaica Adult Literacy Program (JAMAL).
Tomlinson originally planned to pursue a career in medicine, but changed focus after attending the University of the West Indies, later earning an MBA and PhD in Human Resource Management. Her human resources career gave her invaluable skills in listening, empathy, and getting along with others, qualities that now inform both her professional and philanthropic work.
Over the years, Tomlinson has sponsored children in Haiti and Africa through ChildFund and World Vision International, mentored young professionals, and served on the boards of the Immaculate Alumni Association and the Greyston Foundation. She also runs a mentoring program at Ridgeway Alliance Church, which fosters connections between young and old individuals in a mutual learning environment.
A go-to person for Jamaican community events, Tomlinson’s long-term goal is to open a consulting and coaching business to help others navigate life’s challenges, manage their careers and make sound decisions.
Her advice for those who want to make a positive impact? “Treat others as you want to be treated, walk in someone else’s shoes and remember, ‘It’s not about thinking less of yourself, it’s about thinking less of yourself.’
“We all need each other, now more than ever,” she added.
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