I grew up in Jamaica, in a rural community called Cartwood, Trelawny. At the age of seven, I was baptised and received the Holy Spirit shortly after. I was raised in church, and those early years were filled with joy and faith, but I also struggled academically. There were moments when I felt like the odd one out, especially because I couldn’t read like my friends, who were often called upon in church services. That experience slowly began to shape a sense of insecurity within me.
Things became more difficult when I was twelve years old. I failed my examination to progress to secondary school. As my classmates and friends moved on, I was left behind in the same class. In that moment, I felt like a failure. I experienced disappointment, rejection, and a deep sense that there was no hope for my future.
However, that was not the end of my story.
During that time, my sister gave me a book by Ben Carson called Gifted Hands. That book became a turning point in my life. As I read his story—through repeated attempts, page by page—I began to believe that change was possible for me too. Ben Carson’s journey, from academic struggle to success, gave me hope. I identified with his story, especially how his mother encouraged him to read and learn despite his difficulties.
Something shifted in me. I began to push myself to read, even when it was difficult. Eventually, after persistent effort, I learned to read. That moment marked a transformation in my life—from being unable to read to becoming literate and confident in learning.
From there, my life began to change. I became more focused academically and began to excel. I went on to become deputy head boy, and later head boy, in my primary and all-age school. I continued to thrive in high school, graduating as one of the most outstanding academic students and consistently making the school honour roll. I was also awarded scholarships that supported me through my education.
Alongside my academic journey, my faith in God remained central. I continued to serve in church, leading worship, bringing people together, and using my gifts for the Kingdom of God.
After school, I joined the police force, where I continued to lead and serve with integrity. My commitment to purpose, discipline, and faith remained constant throughout that season of my life.
Today, I am a qualified psychotherapist, a minister of the gospel, and a business owner. I lecture, support others in their personal development, and continue to build work that reaches and transforms lives in different spaces.
Looking back, I am grateful. My journey has not been without pain or challenge, but it has shown me that adversity does not define the end of a person’s story.
I want to encourage men especially: it does not matter what you are going through or what stage of life you are in—you can overcome. Your story can change. God can still get the glory through your life. You are a seed for success, and nothing less.