Deaf entrepreneur eyes career with furry friends

Paris Guthrie is working toward establishing a sustainable rabbit farming enterprise, driven by a clear vision of independence, long-term growth, and inclusion.

The 21-year-old, who is deaf, is using agriculture as a pathway to economic empowerment, supported by training and mentorship through the HEART/NSTA Trust Incubator Programme.

Her interest in farming developed after participating in a series of agricultural training initiatives while she was a student at the Caribbean Christian Centre for the Deaf (CCCD) in Knockpatrick, Manchester.

Although initially hesitant when first introduced to tractor operation training, encouragement from her teacher pushed her to give it a try.

"It wasn't easy, but it was interesting. There were difficulties but the teacher made it easier for us to learn," she says.

That experience sparked further exploration into agriculture, leading her to complete additional training in greenhouse technology and small ruminant rearing. It was during the final phase of training that rabbit farming stood out to her as both practical and promising. She explains that successful rabbit farming requires daily care, including regular health checks and proper feeding.

When asked what she enjoys most about rabbit rearing, Guthrie's response is simple and enthusiastic: "I like the fact that the rabbits are soft and fuzzy, and they're also small."

Through the incubator programme, she has received critical support to help turn her idea into a viable business. This includes essential tools and starter livestock.

Guthrie's business model is already taking shape, with plans to raise rabbits both for consumption and for sale as pets. Beyond income generation, she is intentional about building something lasting.

"My plan is to ensure that this business develops over time. I want it to be generational... a heritage that I pass on to my children," she says.

Guthrie's path into education began early. At just three years old, she enrolled at the CCCD.

"I was born deaf. I also grew up in a deaf home because my mom and my dad are also deaf," she said.

Her early experiences have shaped her commitment not only to her own growth but also to inspiring others in the deaf community. Through her work in rabbit farming, she hopes to provide opportunities and mentorship for other deaf individuals.

"I want the deaf community to know that they truly can. Paris did it... so they can do that as well. I also want to help provide jobs for other individuals who are deaf. My vision is to pass this skill on to others," she said.