Where it all Began

Growing up in an at-risk community in Trinidad and Tobago, where crime and violence, poverty, drug abuse, and gang wars were the norm, and where many young people had little to no access to basic necessities or opportunities, my path was fraught with challenges that often felt insurmountable. The allure of negative influences loomed large, and hope seemed like a distant dream. Yet, amidst this adversity, I found hope through education and the unwavering support of mentors who saw potential in me where others saw none. Their belief in my abilities ignited a flame within me, propelling me toward a journey of self-discovery and purpose.

Joining the UNDP: A Turning Point

My transformative experience with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) began in 2019 with their first peace-building project, originally named the Positive Deviance Pilot Project and later renamed "UpFull Hustlers" by its participants. This project played a pivotal role in reshaping my trajectory.

Joining the UNDP team was a turning point in my life. It provided me with a platform to contribute meaningfully to my community, country, and the wider region. Through initiatives aimed at empowering young people, I found purpose in striving for positive change, both locally and globally. The UNDP's mission aligned perfectly with my aspirations, allowing me to channel my energy into initiatives that address systemic issues and promote sustainable development.

Progressing Through the Ranks

Over the past five years with the UNDP, I’ve been fortunate to contribute to several impactful projects that have not only shaped the communities I serve but also deeply influenced my personal and professional growth. These experiences have solidified my belief in the transformative power of perseverance, education, and mentorship, and I’m proud to share some of the key projects that have defined my journey.

It all began in 2019 with the Positive Deviance “UpFull Hustlers” project. This peace-building initiative was my first with the UNDP, and it was here that I truly understood the potential of positive deviance as a tool for change. The project focused on empowering youth in at-risk communities, offering them a pathway out of the cycle of violence and poverty through mentorship and community support. It was a turning point for me, laying the foundation for all the work that would follow.

In 2020, I had the opportunity to be part of the Youth Peace Ambassadors Programme (YPAP). This initiative was particularly close to my heart as it aimed to equip underprivileged youth within state institutions and communities across Trinidad and Tobago with the tools they needed to build a better future. Through educational resources and vocational training, we helped young people gain the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams, making a tangible difference in their lives.

Most recently, from 2022 to 2023, I was involved in the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Project, a role that allowed me to expand my impact as a youth advisor and mentor. Supporting participants and organizing events, I worked closely with the team to ensure that this vital project was successfully implemented. This experience reinforced the importance of mental health support in empowering communities and highlighted the ongoing need for such initiatives.

Each of these projects has been a steppingstone in my journey with the UNDP, reinforcing my commitment to creating positive change through education, mentorship, and unwavering dedication. As I reflect on these experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

A Message to Fellow Youth

Today, I stand as living proof that dreams can indeed become a reality. My journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, education, and mentorship. But more importantly, it underscores the importance of empowering youth to break free from the shackles of circumstance and seize control of their destinies.

To my fellow youth, I extend a challenge: defy expectations, break down barriers, and relentlessly pursue your passions. The world is ripe with opportunities for those bold enough to seize them. Let not your circumstances define you, but rather, let your actions shape the narrative of your life.

Embracing Diversity and Making an Impact

As we journey forward, let us embrace diversity as our greatest strength. It is through our differences that we can foster innovation, resilience, and progress. Success, I've come to realize, is not merely measured by personal achievements but by the lives we touch, the difference we make, and the legacy we leave behind.

So, to all the dreamers and doers out there, I say this: May your path be illuminated by endless opportunities, may your endeavors be fueled by profound fulfillment, and may your impact be everlasting. Together, let us strive to create a world where every voice is heard, every idea is valued, and every action contributes to a brighter tomorrow.