Days after his television was damaged by police officers searching his Sea Lots home, national award recipient Terrence David was gifted a brand new smart television by an anonymous good Samaritan.
David and fellow Sea Lots resident, Deshawn Hamilton, were awarded the Hummingbird Medal Bronze for gallantry when they rescued a policeman from a burning vehicle on the Beetham Highway last September.
Earlier this week, it was reported that police officers searched David’s home on Production Avenue.
While nothing illegal was found, David said his 40-inch television was damaged when a police officer pulled the plug, causing it to fall.
However, David was presented with a new 43-inch television at his home on Friday afternoon by fellow national award recipient Mtima Solwazi.
Solwazi was awarded the Hummingbird Medal Silver for his contribution to arts and culture, due to his years of work as a community activist, working with at-risk youths in vulnerable communities.
Speaking with Guardian Media, David says he was surprised but grateful for the new television.
David added that he had no ill will towards the police officers who searched his home and was committed to living a positive, healthy lifestyle.
“I really want to thank whoever it is out there who felt my spirit because life is all about love.
“I was shocked when my brother (Solwazi) called me and told me about that.
“They (the police) didn’t have to come by me (to search). I told them I didn’t have anything, but they’re doing their work, and you can’t stop the officers from doing their work, and I respect that.
“In life, this is an example to show others how we should live with each other.”
David said he and fellow award recipient Hamilton have already received requests from three primary schools to come and speak with students to inspire them to live productive, responsible lives.
Solwazi said he met with David and Hamilton on the evening of the National Awards Ceremony on August 31 and was encouraged by their optimism and positivity.
He said he was particularly moved after reports of the search were published by Guardian Media and immediately sought help from friends to replace the damaged television.
“When I saw that, I felt hurt, and I posted it on my Facebook page. I said I would have bought a TV for him, but I’m unemployed, and I asked if anyone was willing to buy a new TV for him.
“Within five minutes, a good friend of mine called me and said she would buy it.
“This is just paying it forward because this story of him risking their lives to save the life of another really resonated with everybody.”
Solwazi said he was hopeful that he, David, and Hamilton could work together in the future with mentoring other young people.
