Author: Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

Jevon Frank Success Story

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Jevon Frank Speech- Language Pathologist Master of Arts (M.A.) Speech and Language Pathology The University of the West Indies- St. Augustine, Trinidad What inspired you to pursue studies in Speech and Language Pathology, and what steps did you take to achieve your goal? My inspiration to pursue studies in Speech and Language Pathology stemmed from an innate desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Initially, I was unaware that the field even existed. However, through extensive discussions with friends, online research, and exploring various topics of interest, I discovered the profession and became fascinated by its potential to impact lives. I have always recognised that communication is fundamental to everyday life, and I decided that this field would be the ideal path for me to help individuals overcome speech and language difficulties. To become a registered Speech and Language Pathologist, I first completed an undergraduate degree in Linguistics with a minor in Speech and Language Pathology at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus. I then applied for and was accepted into the Master’s in Speech and Language Pathology program at the same institution, a period during which the support of the Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS) proved invaluable. Alternatively, for someone who already holds at least an undergraduate degree, the pathway would involve completing the Certificate in Speech and Language Pathology at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, which would then qualify them to apply for the Master’s program. How did you plan financially to achieve your goal? Pursuing education at any level can be a herculean financial task. Fortunately, I was blessed to be in the final stages of an On-the-Job Training placement at the Tobago Regional Health Authority (TRHA) Speech and Language Therapy department, which allowed me to have enough finances saved up to support my initial application to and journey through the first academic year. Once accepted into the program, I began budgeting and cutting back on any unnecessary expenses to stretch my limited finances as far as possible. It was only after that first year that I learned about the DATAS program and the assistance it offers. I applied for support and was thankfully successful, which lifted a significant weight off my shoulders and allowed me to focus solely on the demands of the program. What challenges did you experience? One of the biggest challenges I faced was balancing the demands of a master’s-level workload while ensuring that my physical, mental, and financial health were not neglected.  The Speech and Language Pathology programme required significant time for lectures, studying, assignments, and clinical placements, leaving limited time for relaxation or other activities. What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges? To overcome these challenges, I first leaned on Christ to keep me grounded and focused. Secondly, I developed a strong support system to hold me accountable, and studying with my peers helped to ensure that we all understood the material and were well prepared for upcoming examinations. Most importantly, I reminded myself why I chose this profession. Keeping my long-term goal in mind motivated me to persevere through difficult periods and continue working towards becoming a Speech and Language Therapist. How did DATAS make a difference in overcoming these challenges? DATAS made a tremendous difference by providing crucial financial assistance, which was essential in allowing me to complete the Master’s program without the constant worry of meeting financial commitments. Their support significantly reduced my financial burden, helping to cover educational expenses and enabling me to focus fully on my studies and clinical placements. Describe a specific moment when you realised the impact of this support on your journey. I truly realised the impact of DATAS’ support when I made my final tuition payment and understood that the only hurdle left to surmount was passing my final exams and assignments. What message would you share with others considering your career path? If Speech and Language Pathology is a field you are considering, there are several personal traits you must possess before beginning the application process: Patience: As a Speech and Language Pathologist, you will face many challenging situations with both children and adults. Having the patience to work alongside the client and their family to achieve their goals is imperative. Empathy: Being able to put yourself in the position of the client and their family, understanding their frustrations and hopes, and working with them in a way that validates their emotions is vital for building confidence in the therapeutic process. Flexibility: In this field. not every session will be perfect. It is your job to quickly evaluate the effectiveness of a session’s plan and adjust it on the fly, targeting the same goals in different ways or selecting different goals that are within the client’s ability at that moment. Willingness to Learn: Once you graduate and receive your license to practice, you must ensure you are continually refreshing your skills. Best practices can change as new research is conducted, and we need to use the latest evidence-based strategies while accounting for cultural differences to ensure our services are both state-of-the-art and culturally appropriate for our population in Trinidad and Tobago. Be Resourceful: Utilise all the resources at your disposal wisely. Always remember that your success or failure in this journey rests squarely on your shoulders. Treat every setback as a lesson and use it as fuel to push you to become better than you were yesterday. How has this opportunity changed your outlook on the future, and what are your plans moving forward? This opportunity has reinforced my belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for improving your life and the lives of those you encounter. The support I received instilled in me the drive to achieve my highest potential and continually improve my skills. Moving forward, I plan to grow professionally and give back to my community by providing quality and ethical speech and language therapy services. I also intend to be

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Shivornnelle R. Williams Success Story

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

Shivornnelle R. Williams Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Occupational Therapy, Coventry University, Coventry UK Journey to becoming an Occupational Therapist Several experiences inspired my pursuit of a career in Occupational Therapy. One of the most significant influences was researching my country’s workforce needs and discovering that Occupational Therapy was listed among the professions in demand. This highlighted not only the need for the profession but also the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to healthcare within my community. A more personal motivation came from witnessing a family member’s experience following a hand injury. During their recovery, they were required to travel regularly to Trinidad to access hand therapy services. Seeing the challenges associated with accessing specialist rehabilitation services reinforced my desire to enter the field and contribute to improving the availability of Occupational Therapy services closer to home. Although the goal initially seemed ambitious, these experiences gave me a clear sense of purpose. Once I decided to pursue Occupational Therapy, I dedicated considerable time to researching degree programmes across several countries. As studying abroad involved significant financial investment, I wanted to ensure I explored all available options before presenting my plans to my parents. I carefully evaluated different programmes and demonstrated how the knowledge and skills gained would ultimately benefit my country upon my return. I had to do checks to ensure the course was accredited so I could practice in Tobago. By highlighting the growing relevance of Occupational Therapy and the profession’s potential to evolve alongside changing societal needs, I was able to gain their support.  Financing my studies was one of the greatest challenges I faced. I knew that achieving this dream would require both determination and financial planning. To demonstrate my commitment, I worked extensively and took personal responsibility for contributing towards my educational expenses. The funds I saved helped cover many of the costs associated with my first year of study and showed my parents how serious I was about pursuing this career path. I was fortunate to receive tremendous support from my family, particularly with accommodation expenses during my first year. In addition, I applied for financial assistance through the Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS), which provided annual funding to supplement my tuition fees throughout the duration of my programme. This support was instrumental in allowing me to continue my studies and remain focused on my academic and professional development without the stress of finding the funds. Throughout my journey, I learned the importance of persistence, faith, and taking initiative especially if I want to a go in a different direction. While there were times when I was uncertain about how future years of study would be funded, I continued to work hard and trusted that opportunities would emerge. Fortunately, the support I received from DATAS helped make what once seemed impossible achievable. DATAS made a profound difference in my educational journey by providing annual bursary funding over the three years of my degree. As Occupational Therapy was not yet widely recognised in Tobago, I initially wondered whether my application would have been successful. However, DATAS believed in my potential and recognised the value of the profession, even though it was not among the more traditional healthcare career paths commonly pursued. One particular moment stood out. During my final year of study, I was required to pay a substantial portion of my tuition fees upfront before beginning the semester. At the time, I was uncertain how I would secure the necessary funds. Fortunately, DATAS provided the remaining funding at exactly the right moment, allowing me to pay my fees and continue my studies without interruption. The support was delivered efficiently, and communication throughout the process was excellent. I remain especially grateful to The Late Petronella Neptune, whose dedication and professionalism helped ensure everything was processed smoothly and on time. For anyone considering a career in Occupational Therapy, my advice is simple: pursue it. Occupational Therapy is an incredibly diverse and rewarding profession with opportunities across numerous sectors. One of the aspects that attracted me most was the flexibility it offers. Whether working in hospitals, community settings, schools, rehabilitation services, mental health, vocational services, or specialist practice areas, there are endless opportunities for growth and development. Occupational Therapy is centred on helping people participate in the activities that are meaningful to them, whether related to work, education, leisure, or daily living. Because everyone engages in occupations throughout their lives, Occupational Therapists have the opportunity to make a positive impact across a wide range of settings. The profession rewards creativity, compassion, problem-solving, and strong communication skills, making it both challenging and fulfilling. Leading toward the final semester, I was fortunate to secure employment in the United Kingdom before completing my degree. This opportunity allowed me to begin my professional career immediately and provided the financial stability to repay the funding received within one year. Looking back, the support from DATAS played a critical role in helping me achieve financial independence and establish a successful career foundation. As I look to the future, I hope to contribute to the continued growth and recognition of Occupational Therapy in Tobago. I remain passionate about educating others about the profession and advocating for the valuable role Occupational Therapists play in improving health, wellbeing, and participation in everyday life. My professional goal is to become an Advanced Hand Therapist which I am in the process of doing, whilst in the future also exploring opportunities in consultancy and service development. I am excited about what lies ahead and remain deeply grateful to DATAS for helping make this journey possible. MORE STORIES

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Dr. Stern Gadd Success Story

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

Dr. Stern Gadd House Officer Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine, Trinidad. What inspired you to pursue studies in medicine and what steps did you take to achieve your goal?   Growing up, I loved to watch Naval Criminal Investigative Services (N.C.I.S) but more so how Dr. Mallard “Ducky” (fictional character); a Forensic Pathologist would be a pillar of strength to the team of investigators. Through this show; my love to do Forensic Pathology was born and later on I would meet a real life “super-hero”. I attended Bishop’s High School (2008), where I did Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) sciences but didn’t do Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) instead I went into the Pre-Health Professions Programme offered by the University of the West Indies, Faculty of Medicine, St. Augustine, Trinidad. Where I also pursued the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S) degree. How did you plan financially to achieve your goal?  I grew up in a single-parent household with three other siblings. Finances wasn’t the best as only a single income meant sacrifices had to be made. Luckily, my older sister began working just as I was about to commence my studies and thus was able to afford me some assistance when my mother’s assistance wasn’t sure. I had initially looked at Higher Education Loan Programme (H.E.L.P) but unfortunately my Programme (Pre-Health Professions Programme) was not supported by Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (G.A.T.E) and thus the avenue of a HELP loan was not an option. What challenges did you experience?  Given that GATE and HELP weren’t available for the Pre-Health Professions Programme, the challenge was sourcing assistance for tuition, accommodation, stationery/books, meals and transportation. This was partially provided by my family, but trust me it wasn’t enough for which I am immensely grateful. What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges?   The Programme at that time was full-time; working and studying was not an option either and a HELP/personal loan was unavailable. A friend I came to know who was going through the programme, told me about the Tobago House of Assembly’s Financial Assistance Unit – now Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS) and so I hurriedly applied through this avenue. How did DATAS make a difference in you overcoming these challenges?   Through the Financial Assistance Unit – now Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS), I was able to obtain support for Tuition. When I reapplied in pursuit of the M.B.B.S degree, I received bursary assistance for accommodation and miscellaneous expenses. Describe a specific moment when you realized the impact of this support on your journey?   Following the challenges in pursuit of the Pre-Health Professions Programme, when I received a call from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad, indicating I was successful in being placed into the Medical Faculty and all I could do was cry for joy. What message would you share with others considering your career path?   It takes Faith, courage, determination and the willingness to never give up. Faith in God to carry you through this journey; Courage to accept the lows just as we accept the highs; Determination to keep the goal ahead and strive for excellence. The willingness to never give up, if this is your path; it is your path and you must recognize it and aim to keep going at it. How has this opportunity changed your outlook on the future, and what are your plans moving forward?   I am currently a House Officer in the Department of Accident and Emergency, Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA) but have gained experience in infectious disease whilst working in the Internal Medicine Department. I volunteer at The Medical Research Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago (MRFTT) Adolescent Clinic as I hold a certificate in Clinical Management of HIV and since COVID pandemic, my aim is to specialize in Infectious Disease/Emergency Medicine. MORE STORIES

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Dachelle Morrison Success Story

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

SUCCESS STORY Dachelle Morrison Music Educator Bachelor of Arts – Music Arts (Special) The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad What inspired you to pursue studies in Music and what steps did you take to achieve your goal?   My decision to pursue higher education in Music was rooted in a love which developed over time. I come from a family with a strong musical background, particularly in singing and I was introduced to formal music training at the age of eight. Initially, I was reluctant, but I gradually developed a genuine appreciation and passion for the art form. A defining moment in my journey was being awarded the Pat Bishop Scholarship, which gave me the opportunity to attend a music programme in Wisconsin alongside distinguished musicians and educators from around the world. This experience solidified my desire to pursue music at a higher level. I also completed Grade 6 Piano with Trinity College London and Grade 5 University of the West Indies (UWI) Steel-pan examinations. Additionally, I sat Music at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level in Form 4, which provided a strong academic foundation for tertiary studies. My involvement in Bishop’s High School Steel Orchestra and the choir, further exposed me to diverse musical styles and experiences, all of which contributed to my readiness for university.   How did you plan financially to achieve your goal? Initially, there was no fixed plan. My parents were committed to finding a way to support my education and explored various options. At the time, Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) funding was still available and remaining in Trinidad and Tobago helped to reduce financial strain. The Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS) programme also became an option in assisting with funding. What challenges did you experience?   Financially, I was fortunate not to face significant difficulties, as I managed my resources carefully and sought ways to sustain myself. I was also supported by my family, church community, and loved ones. However, there were other challenges. The demands of the Music degree could be intense, particularly during the Panorama season, which required a great deal of physical and mental energy. I had to adjust to living in shared spaces and being away from family, which at first, was a bit challenging. What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges? During my studies, I performed with several bands during the Panorama season, which allowed me to earn an income and contribute toward my expenses while easing the financial burden on my parents. I also actively researched and applied for bursaries and scholarships offered by the university. These were often processed relatively quickly and proved to be very helpful throughout my time at school. Describe a specific moment when you realized the impact of this support on your journey? Although the support came towards the end of my academic journey, it was still helpful. There was no specific moment to describe, however. By that time, I had already benefited from strong support systems, including my family, church, and my own efforts. The funding helped to reduce the financial demands on my parents during that final year, which was greatly appreciated.   What message would you share with others considering your career path? I strongly encourage anyone with a passion for Music to pursue it at the tertiary level, as it opens the door to many opportunities. I am currently employed as a Music Educator, and I would advise aspiring musicians to also explore music education theories and pedagogical approaches to develop effective teaching practices. Patience, resilience, and a willingness to continuously learn are essential qualities for success in this field. How has this opportunity changed your outlook on the future, and what are your plans moving forward? Opportunities such as these create paths for individuals from diverse backgrounds to access tertiary education. Despite financial challenges, young people are still able to pursue their dreams and improve their circumstances and situations. Personally, I am currently reflecting on my long-term career path. While I continue to contribute to education, I am also exploring and researching other opportunities within the field of Music MORE STORIES

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Invitation to Pre-Qualify- School Repair Programme

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

SCHOOL REPAIR PROGRAMME INVITATION TO PRE QUALIFY The Division of Education, Skills and Innovation (DESI) is committed to providing accessible, high-quality Early Childhood, Primary, and Secondary Education throughout Tobago, fostering the holistic development of all students. As part of its mandate, DESI manages and maintains all schools across the island to ensure safe and conducive learning environments. To facilitate the timely reopening of schools for the September 2026 academic term, DESI undertakes its annual School Repair Programme (SRP). Accordingly, suitably qualified Contractors domiciled on the island of Tobago ONLY are invited to submit applications for pre-qualification to participate in the DESI School Repair Programme 2026.

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Newly Appointed Members of the Training Awards Committee Convene First Meeting

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

Newly Appointed Members of the Training Awards Committee Convene First Meeting Notices May 6, 2026 NEWLY APPOINTED MEMBERS OF THE TRAINING AWARDS COMMITTEE CONVENE FIRST MEETING The newly appointed members of the Training Awards Committee held their first official meeting on Wednesday 29th April 2026. In the Conference Room of the Division of Education, Skills and Innovation, marking the beginning of their service. Secretary of the Division, Assembly Member Orlando Kerr and Administrator, Ginelle Williams, were present to welcome the members and reaffirm the Division’s commitment to strengthening opportunities for education, training and skills development across Tobago. Led by Chairman Trilicia St. John Small and Deputy Chairman Julien Skeete, the Committee began discussions on its role, priorities and the work ahead in supporting training and educational opportunities for the people of Tobago. The Division of Education, Skills and Innovation looks forward to the contributions of the Committee and extends best wishes to all members as they undertake this important responsibility in service to Tobago. OTHER NEWS Newly Appointed Members of the Training Awards Committee Convene First Meeting Posted onMay 6, 2026 Examinations Update Posted onMay 6, 2026 National Primary Schools Principals’ Association (NAPSA) Termly Conference 2026 Posted onMay 6, 2026 Low Teacher Turnout Posted onJanuary 27, 2026 Media Release- School Oriented Policing Posted onSeptember 17, 2025 Media Release: Re-opening of Schools Posted onSeptember 9, 2025 January 2026 CSEC Private Candidate Registration Posted onSeptember 9, 2025 DERTech Office Closure Posted onAugust 12, 2025 Happy World Steelpan Day Posted onAugust 11, 2025 First-Year Infant Registration System Trinidad and Tobago Posted onMay 22, 2025 Head Office Closure Posted onApril 23, 2025 Community IMPACT Posted onApril 22, 2025 Angostura Foundation’s Scholarship in the Performing Arts Posted onAugust 26, 2024 Notice to officers in the Teaching Service Posted onJune 4, 2024

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Examinations Update

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

Examinations Update Notices May 6, 2026 EXAMINATIONS UPDATE CSEC MAY/JUNE 2026 Personal Timetables for private candidates sitting the May/June 2026 Caribbean Examinations Council (CSEC) examinations are now available for collection.  Timetables can be collected at the Division of Education, Skills and Innovation- Examination Unit Collection Hours: 8:30am – 3:00pm OTHER NEWS Examinations Update Posted onMay 6, 2026May 6, 2026 National Primary Schools Principals’ Association (NAPSA) Termly Conference 2026 Posted onMay 6, 2026May 6, 2026 Low Teacher Turnout Posted onJanuary 27, 2026January 29, 2026 Media Release- School Oriented Policing Posted onSeptember 17, 2025September 17, 2025 Media Release: Re-opening of Schools Posted onSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025 January 2026 CSEC Private Candidate Registration Posted onSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025 DERTech Office Closure Posted onAugust 12, 2025August 12, 2025 Happy World Steelpan Day Posted onAugust 11, 2025August 12, 2025 First-Year Infant Registration System Trinidad and Tobago Posted onMay 22, 2025May 23, 2025 Head Office Closure Posted onApril 23, 2025April 25, 2025 Community IMPACT Posted onApril 22, 2025April 25, 2025 Angostura Foundation’s Scholarship in the Performing Arts Posted onAugust 26, 2024August 26, 2024 Notice to officers in the Teaching Service Posted onJune 4, 2024June 5, 2024 DERTech’s SMART Classroom Enhancement Project Posted onMay 28, 2024June 4, 2024

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National Primary Schools Principals’ Association (NAPSA) Termly Conference 2026

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

NATIONAL PRIMARY SCHOOLS PRINCIPALS’ ASSOCIATION (NAPSPA) TERMLY CONFERENCE 2026 HELD IN TOBAGO News May 6, 2026 NATIONAL PRIMARY SCHOOLS PRINCIPALS’ ASSOCIATION (NAPSPA) TERMLY CONFERENCE 2026 HELD IN TOBAGO Secretary Orlando Kerr of the Division of Education, Skills and Innovation attended the National Primary Schools Principals’ Association (NAPSPA) Termly Conference 2026, held at  Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort, earlier today. The conference brought together primary school principals from across Trinidad and Tobago for dialogue, professional development and the sharing of best practices, under the theme “Leading Well: Balancing Instructional Leadership with Mental Health Resilience, and Duty of Care in Today’s Schools.” OTHER NEWS National Primary Schools Principals’ Association (NAPSA) Termly Conference 2026 Posted onMay 6, 2026May 6, 2026 Low Teacher Turnout Posted onJanuary 27, 2026January 29, 2026 Media Release- School Oriented Policing Posted onSeptember 17, 2025September 17, 2025 Media Release: Re-opening of Schools Posted onSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025 January 2026 CSEC Private Candidate Registration Posted onSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025 DERTech Office Closure Posted onAugust 12, 2025August 12, 2025 Happy World Steelpan Day Posted onAugust 11, 2025August 12, 2025 First-Year Infant Registration System Trinidad and Tobago Posted onMay 22, 2025May 23, 2025 Head Office Closure Posted onApril 23, 2025April 25, 2025 Community IMPACT Posted onApril 22, 2025April 25, 2025 Angostura Foundation’s Scholarship in the Performing Arts Posted onAugust 26, 2024August 26, 2024 Notice to officers in the Teaching Service Posted onJune 4, 2024June 5, 2024 DERTech’s SMART Classroom Enhancement Project Posted onMay 28, 2024June 4, 2024 Tobago cop primary schools track and field crown Posted onMay 27, 2024June 4, 2024

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Dejel Quashie Success Story

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

SUCCESS STORY Dejel Quashie Chef Associate of Applied Science – Culinary Arts Tobago Hospitality & Tourism Institute What inspired you to pursue studies in Culinary Arts and what steps did you take to achieve your goal? I remember Saturday mornings at my grandparents’ house as if it was yesterday. That kitchen was never quiet. My sisters, my many cousins and I would gather, each of us with a different bowl, some of us grating dry coconuts until our fingers bruised, others creaming butter, which had to be light and fluffy, until their arms were tired, and sometimes we simply stood and observed. My grandmother without question was one of the greatest cooks and bakers I have ever known. She made everything from coconut tarts, sugar cake, bread, cake, you name it she mastered it. Her food carried a depth of flavor and love that you tasted in every bite, which people would always say, she had a sweet-hand, and she truly did. It was in that kitchen that I began to realise I had a unique palate. I could detect when a dish needed more spice, more balance or better seasoning. What confused me then, but recognize now was an early sign of my culinary balance instinct, an ability to analyze flavor, texture, visual and technique beyond just enjoying the meal. Looking back, those Saturday mornings were not just family time, but the foundation of who I was becoming. What I once thought was simple curiosity was actually my calling, my passion for Culinary Arts Another moment that truly inspired me, happened in my early twenties. My cousins and I would often spend weekends away from home, just enjoying each other’s company. But whenever I mentioned that I might not be going, they would immediately protest and ask, “So who cooking? Who makes breakfast for wee?” At the time, we would laugh about it, but it meant more than I realized. They looked at me to take charge in the kitchen. Whether it was preparing a proper breakfast, seasoning meat for lunch, I was always the one they depended on. It was not something assigned to me, but something that happened naturally. That was when I began to recognize that cooking was not just something I enjoyed, it was something others valued in me. Their confidence in my ability gave me confidence in myself. It showed me that my skills weren’t just a hobby, but were meaningful, appreciated and worth developing further. With that realization, I decided to professionally pursue Culinary Arts and enrolled at the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (THTI). I committed myself to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field. I practiced consistently, embraced constructive criticism and sought hands-on experience in the industry through internship to refine my skills. Taking these deliberate steps transformed my childhood passion into a professional path. How did you plan financially to achieve your goal? I had to take charge of my finances, one way or another. It wasn’t something that happened suddenly, rather it was a series of self-determined choices I made in order to keep up with my studies. I began to look closely at my spending, cutting things that once felt normal like social events and liming. They no longer became necessary, as every dollar had a purpose and I needed to be disciplined enough to stick to that plan.   There were days when it felt overwhelming, trying to balance everything at once. I took on extra work and looked for another job to support myself, even though I was already stretched thin. Managing school, work and my personal life required regular adjustment and I needed to be more deliberate about how I spent my time and money.  I was not aware of the Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS) program before and everything I did, was done on my own initiative. There was no external support to guide me, only my will to continue; which had a significant impact on me. It instilled in me discipline, sacrifice and responsibility as well as the ability to push forward and remain devoted to my goals in the face of uncertainty. What challenges did you experience? Balancing school and work with my personal responsibilities all at once were extremely challenging. My days were often filled with one task after another and it was difficult to find the time and energy to meet academic deadlines while maintaining a consistent level of performance. I literally turned my nights into days; at one point, the pressure became overwhelming that I became ill, which forced me to take a semester off. Even though I was working two jobs at the time, it wasn’t enough to ease the financial strain. There were times when I seriously considered whether I would be able to continue my studies and that uncertainty weighed heavily on me. Looking back, it was a tough experience, which pushed me to become more disciplined and determined to persevere despite the setbacks. What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges? Even when things got tough, I stayed focused on my goals. I began to manage my time better, ensuring that I maintained a balance with school, work and personal commitments. Discipline became a must, and I held myself liable for remaining on track. I learnt, it was okay to ask for help instead of trying to do everything on my own. During those moments, I kept reminding myself why I started, which gave me the extra strength to keep going. Staying positive and focused was not always easy, but it helped me push through those difficult times. DATAS truly made a meaningful difference in my journey. Before receiving that support. Always worried about how I would pay for each semester, overthinking about almost everything and that stress followed me into my daily life. When the financial assistance from DATAS was granted, it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. It provided me with more

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Taiesha Thomas Success Story

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

SUCCESS STORY Taiesha Thomas Project Assistant Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Economics and Accounting What inspired you to pursue studies in Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Economics and Accounting? What steps did you take to achieve your goal? I pursued a B.Sc. Economics and Accounting at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill, Barbados. My passion for accounting, combined with a strong interest in sustainable development and economic growth, inspired my choice of study. To achieve this goal, I adopted a balanced approach to university life, carefully managing coursework, assignments and examinations alongside my involvement in sports as a member of the UWI Blackbirds Female Football Team. This balance helped me navigate the demanding and often stressful university environment, while benefiting from both academic and extra-curricular development, ultimately leading to my successful completion of the program. How did you plan financially to achieve your goal? At the onset of my studies, my education was fully financed by my parents and extended family. At that stage, no additional funding avenues were explored to offset the associated expenses. What challenges did you experience? The primary challenge I encountered was financial security, as my parents were the main source of funding. Additionally, adapting to the rigorous academic environment of university life while balancing extra-curricular activities proved difficult. What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges? After learning about financial assistance offered by the Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS), I applied and was successful. This support allowed me to properly budget for living expenses such as rent, food, transportation and books; significantly reducing the financial burden on my parents. I also applied for and received extra-curricular bursaries through the UWI Sports Department, Cave Hill, Barbados which further eased financial strain.  To manage my academic workload alongside football, I implemented structured study schedules (both individual and group-based) and practiced effective time management, ensuring sufficient time for academics, sports, and rest. How did DATAS make a difference in you overcoming these challenges? The financial assistance from DATAS was both timely and transformative. It significantly reduced the financial pressure on my parents and enabled me to comfortably cover all major expenses, including rent, groceries, transportation, semester fees and books. This support alleviated the mental stress associated with financial uncertainty and allowed me to focus fully on my academic commitments and accomplishing my ultimate goal (graduating). Describe a specific moment when you realized the impact of this support on your journey? Crossing the graduation stage and receiving my degree was ‘the Eureka moment’ when I truly recognized the impact of DATAS’ support. Completing a journey that once felt insurmountable filled me with gratitude, as I knew that without this financial assistance, my experience would have been far more challenging and uncertain. What message would you share with others considering your career path? Although I currently work as a Project Assistant at the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI), a role not directly aligned with my degree, I encourage anyone pursuing a similar path to remain focused on their goals, be optimistic, plan effectively, and surround themselves with like-minded individuals. Maintaining a healthy balance between academics and extra-curricular activities is essential for managing stress. Most importantly, believe in yourself, be your own biggest supporter, as your success is ultimately determined by your commitment and mind-set. How has this opportunity changed your outlook on the future, and what are your plans moving forward? This opportunity has profoundly shaped my outlook on the future. I intend to deepen my engagement with national and regional issues by conducting meaningful research that can help influence policy and drive positive change. My goal is to use my experience and knowledge to contribute to economic development with the intent of reducing disparities and inequalities across various sectors and communities. MORE STORIES

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Asha Morton Success Story

Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

SUCCESS STORY Asha Morton Health Education Facilitator Owner: L’abeille Tropicale Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)- Food Science & Technology    What inspired you to pursue studies in Food Science and Technology, and what steps did you take to achieve your goal? My passion for food and a strong family background in catering, farming, and culinary arts inspired me to study Food Science and Technology. I wanted to combine my love for food with scientific knowledge of how food is grown, processed, prepared, and made safe, particularly to benefit Tobago. I pursued formal education at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and gained both theoretical and practical training that prepared me to serve my community effectively. Today, this foundation supports my work as a Health Education Facilitator, where I translate food science concepts into practical guidance for individuals, communities and food business operators. How did you plan financially to achieve your goal? I carefully budgeted my resources and actively sought scholarships and financial support to ensure I could remain focused on my studies. This planning allowed me to balance my academic responsibilities with my long-term goal of contributing meaningfully to Tobago’s food safety, public health and education sectors. What challenges did you experience? Balancing the financial demands of higher education with personal and professional responsibilities, while managing a demanding academic workload, was my greatest challenge. What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges? I relied on careful planning, strong time management, and an unwavering focus on my purpose—using my skills to serve Tobago. Additionally, my children remain a major source of motivation. I strive to be a role model for them, so they will remember that “Mommy never gave up. Mommy always gets the job done, and so can they.” How did DATAS make a difference in your overcoming these challenges? The Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS) bursary significantly relieved my financial stress, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and professional development. DATAS support reinforced my confidence and strengthened my commitment in completing my programme and applying my training in real-world public health and food safety settings. Describe a specific moment when you realised the impact of this support on your journey. I realised the true impact of this support when I could dedicate myself entirely to learning, without the added burden of worrying about accommodation and basic needs. This allowed me to gain critical knowledge and practical skills that I now actively apply in my work. As a Health Education Facilitator, I use my education to deliver lectures and training sessions on food safety, hygiene, and general public health. I provide evidence-based insight to communities, collaborate with Health Inspectors on food safety matters, and support enforcement efforts through education and risk communication.  Recently, I co-facilitated a food safety seminar with a colleague from the Public Health Department in collaboration with the School Nutrition Unit. The reception was amazing; it was a full circle moment. This provided the drive to begin supporting small food manufacturing businesses, helping them understand food safety requirements, improve handling and processing practices, reduce contamination risks, and move toward regulatory compliance. These experiences provide the practical value of my education and the lasting impact of DATAS’ support.   What message would you share with others considering your career path? Pursue this your dreams with passion. Food Science and Technology equips you to improve food safety, nutrition, and public health in meaningful ways. There are many career avenues available—regulatory, educational, entrepreneurial, and consultancy. If an existing path does not fit, create out your own, that’s where the adventure is. Let me emphasize: Creating your own niche is an adventure all on its own. I started my business: L’abeille Tropicale for the same reason. It gives me new challenges creatively I do wines and kombucha using local produce. How has this opportunity changed your outlook on the future, and what are your plans moving forward? This opportunity strengthened my commitment to using my skills for the benefit of Tobago. By enhancing health education, promoting safe and sustainable food practices, and working with local farmers and communities to build a healthier, stronger Tobago. Moving forward, I also plan to increase my business capacity, currently working on some new products. I am deeply grateful to DATAS for empowering me to give back to my island. MORE STORIES

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