January 2022… I had the immense privilege of joining the Office of the President of the General Assembly as a HOPE Fellow. It was a moment of great excitement and anticipation as I embarked on a new chapter in my professional journey. The HOPE Fellowship program offered a unique opportunity to delve into the complexities of the United Nations system. The fellowship provided me with an invaluable opportunity to interact with esteemed diplomats, policymakers, and experts from around the globe.Through my interactions, I gained insights into the intricacies of international negotiations, the importance of multilateral cooperation, and the ongoing efforts to address pressing issues such as climate change, poverty, and global health. I also contributed to the strength of multilateralism. As part of my responsibilities, I assisted in organizing high-level meetings, drafting speeches and statements, and providing research and analysis on various topics.
December 2021... I have been seconded to the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations in New York in its capacity as Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). I will serve as an Advisor on Sustainable Development to the Chair. This secondment wasn't just about offering expertise; it placed me at the heart of a critical international alliance by supporting the Chair in navigating the complex landscape of sustainable development issues, particularly those facing SIDS. Beyond offering policy advice, I was key in planning, organizing, and participating in numerous meetings and conferences, ensuring that AOSIS’ voice and priorities were effectively communicated across diverse international forums. This has been a transformative experience in my diplomatic career.
July 2021... Antigua and Barbuda presented its first Voluntary National Review Report (VNR) at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum. The report outlined the country's development goals, focusing on social justice, environment, and citizen well-being. Despite challenges from the pandemic, Antigua and Barbuda has made progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including building a university campus, affordable housing, and healthcare facilities. The VNR reflects consultations with various stakeholders and aims for a sustainable and inclusive future. I was immensely grateful to have been a member of the team, finalising the report and also a member of the delegation.
May 2021... I had the incredible opportunity to work on a public education campaign sponsored by UNICEF with the Ministry of Education of Antigua and Barbuda. Our goal was to help teachers, students, and parents navigate the challenges of learning in the "new normal" brought on by COVID-19. As the Scriptwriter and the voice behind the scenes, I played a key role in developing engaging materials for all age groups. The creative process involved extensive research and collaboration with educators, public health officials, and educational psychologists. Finding the right balance between informative and engaging content for such a diverse audience was challenging but ultimately rewarding.
In 2019, I spent three memorable months in Seoul, South Korea, where I attained a certificate in Korean Language from the Seoul National University. The Korean Language and Culture Programme for Diplomats is a program that is run by the Korea Foundation for the purpose of promoting an understanding of Korean society and culture through Korean language study to foreign diplomats. In addition to Korean language classes, I participated in special lectures on Korean politics, economics, society and culture, visited historical sites, and took calligraphy, culinary arts, and taekwondo classes. In addition to the enriching academic and cultural experience, I was fortunate to forge lifelong bonds and friendships with fellow diplomats from all over the world. 감사합니다!