My interest in accounting was sparked by my older brother, who worked at an audit firm. I quickly realised I had an aptitude for numbers and that accounting offered great opportunities.
I began my career in audit with Deloitte in Jamaica, before moving into merchant banking and then to USAID [US Agency for International Development] Jamaica. In 2008, I relocated to Washington DC to join the World Bank, working in accounting, operations and budgets. Currently, I serve as a senior finance officer, focusing on budget reporting to the World Bank Group Board.
Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but choosing to move forward despite it
The World Bank faces a complex landscape of overlapping global challenges. These include the need for inclusive economic growth, better job creation and access to essentials like clean air, water, food and affordable energy, while simultaneously striving to urgently implement solutions on the ground.
I stepped out of my comfort zone during a trip that involved taking a chairlift up a mountainside. It was something that I would never normally do due to my fear of heights. As the lift began its swaying ascent, every instinct told me to turn back, but I gripped the bar and focused on my breathing. It was nerve-wracking, but I made it to the top. That experience reminded me that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but choosing to move forward despite it.
My favourite saying is: ‘Wi likkle but wi tallawah’. It is a Jamaican expression that means ‘we may be small, but we are mighty’. It reminds me that true strength isn’t measured by size or status, but by the heart, determination and courage we bring to every challenge.
If I had law-making powers, I’d make civics a core subject on every school curriculum. Children need to grow up with a better understanding of their responsibilities as citizens. I’ve seen how important it is for people to understand how decisions that impact their lives are made, and the importance of shaping those decisions.
What I enjoy most about my job is knowing that I’m contributing to something far greater than myself. I’m reminded of a story about three bricklayers: one is laying bricks, another is feeding his family and the third is building a cathedral. In my role, every budget and report I deliver is part of building a cathedral; one that supports sustainable jobs, reduces poverty and makes a real difference in people’s lives. That is what keeps me motivated every day.
If I hadn’t pursued a career in finance I would have been a journalist or historian
One of my proudest achievements has been serving as treasurer for L’Arche Greater Washington, DC, a vibrant community where people with and without intellectual disabilities share life together. Here, I’ve been able to use my expertise to support an organisation that provides care and celebrates the unique gifts of every person. L’Arche’s mission to build a more humane society through mutual relationships is something that deeply resonates with me, so helping to steward its resources has been both a professional honour and a personal joy.
I have always been fascinated by words, stories and history, so If I hadn’t pursued a career in finance I would have been a journalist or historian. Whether through uncovering financial insights or exploring historical events, I’m drawn to the pursuit of knowledge and learning.
In my spare time, I love a good book, especially historical biographies and murder mysteries. I also enjoy singing and playing my acoustic guitar, which gives me a chance to be creative and unwind.
