Natasha Sinclair: defying the odds

Gareth Davis Sr., Gleaner Writer

BREAST WORKS, Portland:HAVING ACQUIRED 16 subjects in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), 19-year-old Natasha Sinclair is determined to become a pharmacist.

Sinclair, who hails from the depressed community of Breast Works in Portland, took the decision some years ago to pursue a career in that field, knowing that achieving that feat would require her to work assiduously in school.

"I thank God for my success. I was well supported by my mother, Neisha Williams, in all aspects, and she was the one who encouraged me to work hard so that I would be able to achieve my goals," commented Sinclair. "I am from humble beginnings, but my mom believes in education, and with financial and moral support from her, I was determined to do my best. With God's help, I will be attending the University of Technology (UTech) in late August, where I will be pursuing a career as a pharmacist."

Sinclair, who previously attended St Hilda's High in St Ann, also attended Titchfield High, where she concluded her high school years by doing CAPE examinations in communication studies, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and Caribbean Studies.

Sinclair had previously obtained passes in CSEC at St Hilda's including distinctions in mathematics, social studies, biology, information technology, English literature, and Spanish, and attaining credits in English A and chemistry.

At St Hilda's, Sinclair was exposed to various career talks conducted by professionals, which proved to be an inspiration for her. Impressed by a presentation by a pharmacist during a career session at the school, Sinclair recounted that she was captivated by the pep talk.

"Poverty is not an excuse for failure, and I am a living example of that. Just about everyone knows my story, which is riddled with financial challenges," said Sinclair. "However, with God's help and support from residents in my community, I have defied the odds. Thanks to my teachers at St Hilda's and at Titchfield for their support and belief in me. I am now on the path to success."