I liked a summer job at the Collector of Taxes so much I decided to take an O-level in accounting. I then gained the AAT qualification while working, which allowed me to accelerate into ACCA. However, since I’m a Seventh Day Adventist, Saturday classes were not an option.
When I saw an opportunity to study in London, I seized it and completed my ACCA there. Becoming an ACCA has opened countless doors for me, expanding my professional horizons and allowing me to pursue both my social and career aspirations. I’m now senior director for strategic planning, performance and project management at UHWI.
A major challenge facing Jamaica’s hospital sector is chronic bed shortages and overcrowding. The problem is compounded by inefficient care delivery caused by resource constraints and weak operational systems. The finance function can directly help address such challenges by improving resource allocation, financial planning and operational decision-making.
I am no longer confined to figures, and use my knowledge to test assumptions
Accurate financial data highlights cost drivers and supports capacity planning. Furthermore, thorough record-keeping, strong analysis and responsible budgeting strengthen accountability and ensure administrators are held to appropriate standards. This improves resource use and patient care. Strong financial controls and transparent processes help hospitals deliver safer, more reliable care within constrained budgets.
In my role, I need to be flexible and innovative while applying relevant insights for the hospital’s needs. I am no longer confined to figures, as I use my knowledge to test assumptions and make sound financial decisions. What I enjoy most about my job is identifying solutions to challenges. I’ve always valued finding ways to improve systems, strengthen performance and support the hospital’s mission.
My favourite quote is: ‘Nothing is impossible with God.’ This helps me embrace challenges intelligently, guided by my belief that God gives me the knowledge to find solutions in all things. I also like this from the Chinese philosopher Confucius in the fifth century BC: ‘The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.’ This inspires me to be persistent and not give up. I just need to start!
Singing has stretched me creatively and personally
I would like to see the law make individuals accountable for any lack of integrity. Such a law would need to ensure that dishonesty carries meaningful consequences.
If I didn’t work in finance, I think I would have chosen something in the arts. Creative expression has always been a part of who I am. I write music, sing with choirs and perform solos, although I am still learning to embrace the art of performance. Singing has stretched me creatively and personally, and I now fancy myself a recording artist. I’ve also taken up run/walk marathons, which is a surprise given that I avoided sports as a child!
