When you hear Dr . Gaunette Sinclair-Maragh ' s story , you may think -a highly motivated go-getter , and - you may be correct . But is it wrong to be a go-getter ? It depends on whether the individual understands the importance of life balance and ensures that the desire is not fueled by selfish gain but wanting to be the examplar . In this case , a woman can go after all that she desires and the opportunities that come her way . As you read Dr . Sinclair-Maragh ' s story , you will understand . The resounding message is to be purposefully driven to reach for your “ what ' s next ” best
Her Early Years My primary years began at -the Watsonton Primary School then to Glenmuir High School , both in the parish of Clarendon .. At Glenmuir , I discovered a love for the sciences , chemistry in particular , because I wanted to be a food scientist or food technologist .
At the time , it was difficult to find a program of that nature in Jamaica and so I chose the next best , dietetics and nutrition , which I studied at the then College of Arts , Science and Technology ( CAST ) now University of Technology , Jamaica ( UTech , Jamaica ). My academic journey led me to complete postgraduate studies in the areas of hospitality and tourism management and education .. Prior to joining the University of Technology , Jamaica I held several job positions such as being the National Coordinator of the Tourism Infusion Programme at the Jamaica Tourist Board ; Food and Nutrition Specialist at Grace Consumer Services / Grace Kennedy Limited ; Food and Nutrition Expert Teacher at the Vere Technical High School and Flight Attendant at Air Jamaica Limited as well as managing family businesses .
The challenges were great during this journey , particularly while studying at the graduate level ; managing two children , home , work , school and a home-based business venture at the time . But I believe that this hectic schedule prepared me for my ultimate purpose . Not wanting to be deterred at any point in time , I combated all challenges by planning and implementing strategies to facilitate my living and what had now become an exciting life journey . While this period proved arduous , I believe when we put our heart and mind on achieving a mission , we will find a way .
TBWM : How did you manage all you did with the children ? Dr . Sinclair-Maragh : There are many stories but when I was pursuing my master ’ s degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of the West Indies , Mona my daughters were eight years old and I was managing a single parent home but I was truly blessed as I was surrounded by a fairly large extended family ; my immediate family and my in-laws . Together , they provided the support needed to take care of my children when I was without household help or when they did not accompany me to my evening classes in Kingston .
Thankfully , I had understanding lecturers and a considerate study group . My daughters were not complaining either as there were the many offerings of fast food restaurants to soothe any discomfort . I was very transparent with them regarding my studies , my new way of life and how we would all benefit . However , I , made sure that each Sunday was dedicated to them , and we would do everything together . At times , we would drive into Kingston to the movie theatre or head to St Elizabeth to the water park , and of course , they were grounded in the church . They were very aware of all that was happening .
They were also responsible students who did their schoolwork and remained on top academically . In fact , at that early age they used to take turns in typing my assignments which I would have prepared by hand writing . They were consistent top performers throughout , preparatory school , high school and university and I believe that their exposure to my academic environment helped them become who they are today .
It is highly likely that they patterned their burgeoning academic life not only on their own experiences , but also on what they saw happening around them . This busy lifestyle served as a catalyst which helped to formulate their own hopes and dreams so it is perhaps not surprising that they are today both medical doctors .
TBWM : What would you say to a single mother ? What would you tell her as a number one rule as it relates to her children for them to excel ?
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