Shakira Leslie continues her meteoric rise to success
Published:Tuesday | October 23, 2018 | 12:00 AM
Shakira Leslie is committed to pursuing her dreams as an environmental consultant. The 23-year-old first class honours graduate of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, is passionate about the natural environment and has been working assiduously over the years to make an invaluable contribution towards maintaining and improving Jamaica's ecosystems.
"I have been passionate about the natural environment and wildlife since I was in the ninth grade at Jonathan Grant High school. My passion stems from an appreciation for our dependence on nature, as everything we need is derived from it," Leslie said.
For three years, Leslie pursued a bachelor's degree in environmental biology and delved into areas that included conservation, oceanography and water pollution. "It was challenging, but I loved the thrill of it. I was waking up between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. to complete reports. What motivated me during those hours was my love and desire for learning," Leslie said.
While a student at the UWI, Leslie participated in numerous field trips that helped to improve her understanding of Jamaica's natural habitat. On occasions, along with her classmates, Leslie visited Discovery Bay in St Ann, where they assessed the health of the coral reefs, and journeyed to the Cockpit Country, where they explored the forest's ecological significance.
"From these experiences, I want to join in the efforts to ensure that while Jamaica continues on its path towards development, that this ties in with conservation. It is important that while we develop our country, our natural resources and their habitat including our forests and wildlife are maintained," Leslie said.
She indicated that Jamaica needs more persons who are enthusiastic about the environment. "There are not many of us who are influencing the decision-making process regarding our environment. Through my research, I want to add to the knowledge base that already exists and advocate for greater protection of it," she added.
... Budding environmentalist
The budding environmentalist, who completed an internship at the National Environment and Planning Agency as part of her undergraduate programme, said she has been exposed to conservation issues in Jamaica and the challenges that are faced in overcoming them.
"Jamaica is improving its stance on conservation issues, but it will take time. It takes immense effort to find the solutions
to many of the problems facing our environment," Leslie said.
Now working as a demonstrator at the UWI, Leslie supervises the labs that current students use. Although she prefers to be out in the fields and gaining more hands-on experience, Leslie likes being in the academic setting, where she is able to learn new things and remain focused on her dreams.
Leslie, who hails from Point Hill district in St Catherine, wants to pursue a master's degree in wildlife conservation, which is currently not offered in Jamaica. She is desirous of obtaining a scholarship to study overseas, but is fervent that she would like to apply the knowledge she gains to contribute to conservation efforts in Jamaica.
The former valedictorian at Jonathan Grant High School, who graduated at the top of her class, also wants to pursue doctoral studies.
"Other than becoming an environmental consultant, I want to obtain a PhD, then I can begin my career as a lecturer, which will provide me with an opportunity to share my knowledge in the classroom and help others to further understand the importance of preserving our environment," Leslie said.
She thanks her family, friends and lecturers for their continued support and wants to inspire students from the rural areas to succeed.