From Vision to Legacy

Growing up in a single-parent home and yearning for an education he never had access to, a young Lyndon Bailey made a promise to himself—he would one day help other young people like him who lacked basic education and job training. Despite facing financial hardships, he never gave up on that vision—and because of his determination, countless lives have been transformed.

A skilled contractor by trade, Lyndon and his wife Lavern took it upon themselves to be the difference for Belize’s at-risk youth. As gang violence escalated in Belize City and more young people were lost to the streets, they knew something had to be done. In 2000, Lyndon made the courageous decision to put his career on hold, unsure of how he would continue to support his family of six. He sold his Mitsubishi pick-up truck, tapped into their life savings, reclaimed a piece of land in Ladyville, and secured a $250,000 loan to construct a few modest buildings.

That bold step became the foundation for what is now known as Tubal Trade & Vocational Institute.

They opened the school with just nine students—youths eager to learn mechanics, electrical engineering, and woodwork—alongside three instructors and a secretary. What began as a small act of faith has grown into a national legacy.

Now, 24 years later, Tubal has proudly graduated over 6,000 students. Many are now licensed electricians, skilled auto mechanics, and professionals thriving in Belize’s tourism and hospitality industry. These success stories are a testament to the heart and sacrifice of Lyndon and Lavern Bailey, who have poured themselves into this mission with unwavering dedication and love.

Though they have received little public recognition for their work, they continue pressing forward—building brighter futures for Belize’s next generation, one student at a time.