Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
Hello dear, my name is Sobrina Patterson and I hail from the picturesque, farming community of Rose Hall. I am a past student of the Bishop’s College Kingstown and a graduand of the St.Vincent and the Grenadines Community College. I am the holder of an Associate Degree in Psychology.
After graduating from the Community College, I was desperately seeking employment. I submitted numerous applications to various companies all to no avail. I finally decided to apply for the Y.E.S, ( Youth Empowerment Service) program. I was successful and was assigned to the Troumaca Ontario Secondary School where I was guided to assist with the instruction of English A and Office Administration.
After one year my contract came to an end , that was really a difficult time for me as I had to go back to seeking employment all over again.
It was during my earnest search to find something to do, that I got a bright idea. It was as if a light bulb went off in my head, ” why not apply to attend the Barrouallie Technical Institute?” I pitched the idea to my father who by the way, is my biggest cheerleader and role model, and he encouraged me to try my luck.
I immediately went to the institute and applied for the Commercial Food Preparation course. Few weeks after my interview when I received a call that I was accepted I was so elated. My excitement was however not shared by my social circle as I was told that, that institution was not for me. ” you’re too bright for that school,” they said. The fact that I was financially incapable at the time also dampened my spirit a bit.
Nevertheless, September 2018 saw me entering the gates of BTI. I decided to stand like a brave with my face to the fore because the lord is the one who strengthens me. As soon as my feet touched the compound of the Barrouallie Technical Institute, I realised that I had made the right decision. I have absolutely no regrets. The staff is so welcoming and helpful, they took me under their wings and that guidance has helped to put me in the position I am in today.
With encouragement from the Principal and my Food Preparation instructor, I was given the opportunity to go on attachment at Basil’s Bar and Restaurant, it was an amazing experience. I can honestly say that BTI moulded me,groomed and protected me and set me up for what was to come.
As the motto says; “Training hands and minds maximising potential “. Well BTI did just that for me.
I would surely recommend this institution to persons especially on the Leeward side of the island, once you are willing to learn a skill and have the right ATTITUDE.
Through this institution I’ve been given the opportunity to start my own business; ‘HERBELLA’, where I produce products such as Coconut oil my special Ginger Hair Oil, along with various flavors of Punch de Créme. I am now also employed as a S.E.T worker, attached to the Rose Hall Government School and I am using the knowledge, skills and teaching techniques which I saw exhibited by the staff at BTI to reach my students. Most importantly, I am showing the LOVE that I felt while I was a trainee to the children in my care.
It goes without saying therefore, that my experience at the Barrouallie Technical Institute not only helped me to be certified in a skill and own my own business, but it gave me the ammunition to help make a difference in the lives of our future generation.
So you see, if you paint in your mind a picture of bright and happy expectations, you put yourself into a condition conducive to reaching your goals.
Thanks to the ANEW program for assisting me financially also the Mustique Charitable Foundation for awarding me a scholarship. Without each of you and the mercies of God I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Thank you BTI.
