JANELLE YEARWOOD has been involved in the field of law enforcement for the past eight (8) years and this served to pique her interest in pursuing her studies at The University of Trinidad and Tobago's (UTT) Institute of Criminology and Public Safety (ICPS). Beginning her academic journey in 2015, Janelle successfully completed the Certificate and Diploma in Security and Public Safety in 2017 and is currently preparing to graduate with the Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.) in Criminology and Public Safety. 

 

As she reflects on the time spent at UTT, Janelle admits that her initial goal was to graduate at the Diploma level, however, she became more intrigued with Criminology, and believes UTT's programmes helped to broaden her perspective on crime and public safety. Janelle excitedly shares, "The courses were very enjoyable and interactive, and encouraged critical thinking and analysis towards the understanding and application of security and public safety, which are critical issues in our society."

For Janelle, having to juggle her career, family life and full-time studies, was at times very demanding and challenging. However, she gained the strength to persevere from family, friends, co-workers, and the extremely helpful staff at UTT's ICPS. Janelle's determination and dedication paid off in 2018, as she was one of two recipients who were awarded a full scholarship by the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Programme and spent one semester at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology. Janelle says, "This was a very enlightening and fulfilling experience, as I was exposed to a new culture, and gained tremendous insight into the various issues and challenges many societies encounter in their combat against crime." 

 

The true test for Janelle came in November 2018, while pursuing her studies in Canada, she experienced first-hand the ill effects of crime, with the murder of one of her younger sisters. As she grieved for her sister, Janelle says "I now truly understand what it means to be a victim of crime, as it does not only affect the individual, but the entire society" - a theory she had encountered in her studies then became a reality. 

 

Despite her loss, Janelle remains committed to addressing crime and believes the nation's safety and security require a holistic approach involving all members of society. To achieve this, she already has her eyes set on pursuing postgraduate studies in Cybersecurity at The University of Trinidad and Tobago, which recently received GATE approval. 

 

Janelle encourages others to continue to pursue their dreams and lives her life with full knowledge that where there is a will, there is always a positive way. All things are possible once you set your mind to it.

 

The University of Trinidad and Tobago salutes Janelle in her pursuit for excellence!