Jodelia Simmons - Graduate of UTT’s Diploma in Forestry

Jodelia Simmons, a St Vincent and the Grenadines graduate of the Diploma in Forestry, has transformed a scholarship opportunity from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) into a career in forestry and wildlife conservation. Currently serving as a Technical Aide with the forestry department in her home country, Jodelia contributes to initiatives that protect bird species, wetlands and forest ecosystems while supporting conservation efforts across the Caribbean.

In 2023, Jodelia received a full OECS scholarship to pursue the Diploma in Forestry at UTT. The opportunity allowed her to build on her existing experience in the sector while strengthening her academic and practical knowledge. As a student, she quickly discovered that the programme’s balance of theoretical learning and practical field experience aligned well with her professional interests and aspirations.

One of the most memorable experiences of her UTT journey was the opportunity to participate in wildlife-focused field trips across Trinidad and Tobago. Visits to Bajnath’s Estate Hummingbird Sanctuary, the Caroni Swamp, the Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust and the Little Tobago Bird Sanctuary, provided invaluable opportunities to observe diverse bird species and wildlife in their natural habitats.

Since graduating, Jodelia’s career has continued to evolve through opportunities focused on bird conservation, particularly involving endemic avian species in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Her dedication to wildlife conservation has led to several notable achievements, including attending the 24th BirdsCaribbean Conference in the Dominican Republic, contributing to research and writing on the St Vincent Wren, and helping to develop a grant proposal for bird surveys.

Additionally, Jodelia has been selected for regional conservation training programmes, such as the Conserving Caribbean Wetlands: Waterbird and Shorebird Identification and Census Workshop in Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean Bird Banding Training Workshop in Trinidad and Tobago.

Today, Jodelia plays an active role in strengthening forestry and wildlife conservation efforts in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Her work encompasses not only landbird conservation but also the protection and monitoring of wetlands, shorebirds and waterbirds. Through training, and fieldwork participation in regional initiatives, Jodelia continues to apply the knowledge and skills gained at UTT to benefit both the forestry department and the wider community.

Jodelia encourages current UTT students to embrace every opportunity available during their studies both inside and outside the classroom. She believes that practical experiences, projects and professional relationships often become just as valuable as academic achievements.

Her advice is simple: “Do not give up when things get difficult. Trust God, keep the faith, and continue working hard even when the road feels challenging. There may be delays, disappointments, or moments when you question yourself, but stay committed and trust that God’s timing is always right. Most importantly, stay humble, stay focused, and remain passionate about what you are doing. Let God guide you, believe in yourself, and allow your time at UTT to prepare you not just for a career, but for a greater purpose.”

Reflecting on her journey at UTT, she describes it as memorable, filled with valuable life lessons, guided by faith, and strengthened by the family bond created throughout her experience.

Jodelia continues to build on the foundation gained at the University, using her skills and experiences to support the protection of forests, wetlands and wildlife in St Vincent and the Grenadines, while encouraging others to embrace every opportunity that can help them discover their own path to success.