“Success is not the result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.”

Dedication

I dedicate this autobiography to my children, Careen, Nicole, Ashleigh, Lawrence Jr., and Lance. Each of you has given me purpose and strength to continue growing so I can be a good role model to you. With all my heart, I dedicate this book to you. May it serve as a testament to the legacy of love, tenacity, and endurance that you carry within yourselves.

The importance of education, perseverance, and hard work is a key lesson instilled in me by my parents. Despite hardships they were instrumental in developing me into the person I am today. The sacrifices they made and the teachings they taught me continue to serve as a compass, telling me that there is no such thing as an unachievable dream.

In addition, I would like to dedicate this work to the innumerable students, coworkers, mentors, and friends who have been there for me along my journey. At every stage of my development, you have all been significant contributors to my progress, encouraging me to strive for greater things and to improve myself. Special mention has to be made of Mr. Paul Cassanova, whose friendship helped me during one of the most difficult times in my life.

I would like to conclude by stating that this autobiography reflects the teachings shared with the individuals I have assisted in my professional and entrepreneurial activities.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Phase 1: Childhood and Schooling

I was born and brought up in the little town of Altamira, which is in the Corozal District in northern Belize, Central America. That’s where my story began. I came from a humble background, but my parents’ faith in education’s transformative power shaped my life in imaginable ways.

I was born in December, a season when everything seemed to pause and the natural world reflected the tranquillity and serenity that would define my formative years. Although it wasn’t always easy, I’m grateful for my upbringing since it set the stage for my adult life. I was one of several children in a big household that included both biological and step-siblings. Our house was always bustling with activity, with people constantly arriving and departing.

My parents were ambitious and wise, but they were never rich. My father, an honest and diligent man, instilled in me the value of self-control and never giving up. He was a man with the gift of recycling. Nothing was wasted and everything could be made useful in his view. My mother was a disciplinarian. Her methods were rough and would be questioned in this modern world, yet I now appreciate her consistent push for excellence. I learned the importance of education and the role it would play in my climb out of poverty. In our household, education was not just a ritual but a necessity. I pursued my education seriously because I knew it was the key to a better life.

In Corozal, I went to a religious institution called the Corozal Methodist Primary School. I began to excel academically at this school, which stressed morals and academics. The school provided me with a solid academic foundation that stimulated my intellectual growth. Always ready to soak up new knowledge, I was a fast learner and an inquisitive student. I developed emotionally and mentally under the guidance of my professors, who were both firm and encouraging. In particular, I recall how they would spare no effort to clarify concepts for me. I made it a point to continuously push myself because of their encouragement.

I stood out right from the beginning. It was obvious I was ahead of my classmates and that I was different from them. Due to my superior knowledge of the subject matter, I was promoted to Standard 2 while still in first term. My advancement allowed me to skip two entire grades. I worked my way up this unusual road for a kid my age, and was determined to follow my love of learning no matter what. I did face some difficulties along the way in my early academic achievement. There was a lot of pressure to keep up my stellar performance, even while many praised me for my ability. The expectations of my parents were quite high. Not even an “A” would do; failing to meet that standard was seen as unacceptable. I felt driven to be the best version of myself because of this pressure, which was intense at times.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

Phase 2 : Higher Education and Early Professional Life

A person’s life and professional trajectory are both impacted by the turning points that occur throughout the transition from childhood to adulthood. During my time in college, I had a major shift in my journey. It was during these years that the significance of my childhood education started to sink in. I started my working life during this time, which was also full of new challenges and chances.

After finishing elementary and secondary school early, I was excited to pursue junior college, but the journey wasn’t as straightforward as I had anticipated. I vowed to myself that I would go to college and get a degree so I could realize my goal of having a positive impact on the world. Regrettably, there were severe limitations on both resources and opportunities during that period. Many of my classmates had financial support, and I encountered other challenges that may have discouraged me. Still, I had a strong will to succeed and a firm conviction that school would help me reach my full potential. I stayed the course even when the school Dean would announce that all those with unpaid bills should go home. He never called out my name specifically, so I faithfully returned. He eventually realized that I was determined and allowed to cover the cost of my fees by working around the school campus in the evenings. Such was my life at Belize Technical College where I earned my Associates Degree in General Science.

I continued my quest towards further education in 1993, earning a Bachelor of Science degree from the University College of Belize. It was an exhilarating and difficult transition from junior college to college. Coming from a tiny town, the college presented yet another new environment, teeming with individuals from all walks of life and with unique perspectives. I now had to figure out how to get around in this fantastical environment that had always fascinated me. It was too much to handle in the beginning. There was more competition, and the coursework was harder. I had to prove myself once again, even though I had always been a great student.

I overcame the obstacles and adapted to academic life in no time. My schooling, job, and domestic duties are all well-balanced now. While I was a college student, I worked part-time to help pay for my education and to keep up with my nieces’ financial needs. The experience taught me the importance of time management, self-discipline, and perseverance, but I had no option but to handle all of these tasks simultaneously. Effective time management, organization, and prioritizing are skills I honed. I had to remain focused and avoid procrastination.

The immense influence that a college degree may have on my life after graduation motivated me to do my best academically, but that wasn’t the only reason. I was committed to my studies, often exceeding expectations to complete assignments. To further my grasp of the subject, I collaborated with teachers, attended supplementary seminars, and searched out supplementary materials. My academic interests leaned heavily toward the fields of teaching and leadership, where I would later establish my career.

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”

Phase 3 : Early Professional Life and Career Development

A person’s life takes a significant turn when they move from college to the working world. Putting classroom knowledge into practice marks the beginning of a new chapter. I viewed this stage as an opportunity to apply my academic knowledge in a professional environment where I could truly make a significant impact.

I was ready to take on the world after I finished my Bachelor of Science degree and went through my formative years of study. The actuality of starting a new job, though, was fraught with difficulties. Although I had always been goal-oriented, I learned the hard way that formal education is only half the battle. Leadership, team management, and office politics are just a few of the many areas where I still needed practice. On the other hand, I was prepared. I was ready to grasp new concepts. I was eager to make a difference.

From 1985 to 1988, I started my career as a math teacher at Corozal Community College in the Corozal District. I took my role as a math teacher seriously; it was more than a job to me. Knowing that I was having a profound impact on my pupils’ lives, I devoted myself fully to motivating them. I initially recognized my potential as a teacher in this classroom. The thrill of assisting kids in finding solutions to problems, explaining difficult mathematical ideas, and witnessing their progress over time was incredibly fulfilling.

Though I loved being a teacher, I felt there was more to my potential. Expanding my influence and taking on more responsibility were two things I aspired to. During my first few years in the classroom, I realized how much I loved being a leader. My experience as a classroom teacher prepared me for the challenges of leadership, and I soon saw that my gift for mentoring and inspiring people would be an asset in such a position.

From 1988 to 1998, I worked my way up the ladder of education, teaching high school mathematics at Corozal Community College and then Canaan High School in Belize City. After some years, I took on the dual role of math teacher and vice principal. Making the leap from classroom instructor to school administration was an exciting and daunting experience. My responsibilities included working along with the principal to manage staff, create and enforce policies, and making sure the school operated well on a daily basis. I was given the responsibility of making the school a good place to learn for everyone. I gained a better understanding of the many facets of leadership through this experience, including managing people, performing administrative tasks, and understanding the intricacies of educational policy. My principal was instrumental as a mentor and she willingly shared with me so I could learn and grow.

Note of Thanks

As I reflect on the path that has led me to this point in my life, I am filled with profound appreciation for all the people who have been there for me. I want to start by saying how much I appreciate my family. All that I have achieved is based on their unfaltering belief in me, support, and affection. Through thick and thin, they have been there for me, sharing in my struggles and my victories. Nothing would have been achievable if it weren’t for them.

To everyone who has helped me along the way, including teachers, classmates, and coworkers, I am eternally grateful. Your advice, counsel, and encouragement have been priceless, and I am very appreciative of all that you have done to help me grow. Thanks to everyone I’ve collaborated with in the fields of healthcare, education, and elder care, my job has been more significant and fulfilling.

A heartfelt “thank you” goes out to all the people who have encouraged me to keep going even when things become tough, to persevere in the face of hardship, and to aim high. Because of your unwavering faith in me, I have been able to persevere through every challenge. Lastly, I dedicate this effort to the generations that will come after me.

Thank You
– Dr. Rosinell Beverly Craig