The following article is contributed by Mrs. Sherrika Shallow-John, a proud Vincentian who recently earned her Master’s degree in Business Management (Logistics and Supply Chain) from Edinburgh Napier University. As a professional with over 20 years of experience in Customs and a passion for leadership and personal growth, Mrs. Shallow-John shares her story to inspire others to pursue their dreams with determination and resilience. Her journey exemplifies the power of perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, encouraging others to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Through all the changing seasons of testing and trials God, you saved me and rewrote my story, your love and grace my heart inspires, in your arms I find my glory.
In moments of doubts, you showed the way, through every struggle, night and day. You never left me, you held me close. In your embrace, my fears decompose.
When the road was rough and the journey long, you gave me strength to carry on, in your presence I find my peace, your love for me will never cease.
Jeremiah 29: 11 “for I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”.
I was born into a world where life revolved around the fields and homes my parents worked tirelessly to support us. Both domestic and farm workers, they were denied the chance at higher education but were fiercely determined to see us achieve more. My mother, in particular, shouldered the weight of ensuring we attended school, and she did so with strength and resilience, despite limited resources. Every penny was stretched, every decision was weighed, and every sacrifice was made to send us to school. While many doubted our family, my mother never wavered in her belief that education was the path to change. People around us often doubted our potential, and some even thought we were destined for nothing but hardship. I remember in recent time in a village where we grew up,overhearing one neighbor tell her that we only lived off “handouts.” But I faced him and said, “God bless those who help us with handouts, because we’re making good use of them.”
My academic journey began humbly at Belmont Government School, where I walked from Fair Hall to Belmont every day. I remember sitting the Common Entrance Examination twice. My Junior five teacher, Mrs. Belgraves, was a source of unwavering support—her belief in me made all the difference, and I’m forever grateful. On my second attempt, I passed and earned a place at Saint Joseph’s Convent Kingstown, where Sister Maureen and all the dedicated teachers played an instrumental role throughout my time there. It was a challenging path; in form 2, my father fell seriously ill and was bedridden, and I had to repeat the year. Taking care of him at such a young age, without running water or electricity, was a hard reality. But through all of it, God was there, keeping me steady.
By fifth form, I felt like I’d come a long way, signing up for eight CXC subjects. I even sat Mathematics early, in fourth form, and passed. But life threw me a curveball—I found out I was pregnant just as I was preparing for exams. With the help of my mother, a supportive partner, and his family, I managed to balance my responsibilities and graduated with seven CXCs.
After graduation, I registered for a two-year Business Administration program at the Technical College. However, I fell ill shortly after my pregnancy and had to defer until the following year. Despite setbacks, my determination to overcome poverty was unshaken. I completed the program successfully and was then placed on attachment at the Customs and Excise Department. That attachment turned into a permanent position, a stepping stone in my life that has guided me on a path of growth, development, and maturity. As a young mother with a beautiful daughter depending on me, this opportunity has fueledmy determination to be a positive role model and to continue reaching for better.
I became the first in my family to attend college and later university. It was a journey built on resilience, and I was determined to break the generational curse of poverty that had held my family back for so long. I studied late into the night, taking on any work that could help in any way, all with the goal of honoring my mother’s sacrifices and defying the odds that many assumed would limit us.
My mother’s sacrifices inspired me to change our family’s story. I was determined to be the one to break the generational curse of poverty and the odds stacked against us. I knew that education was the key, but life threw me a challenge when I became pregnant at 18. College seemed impossible at first, but my resolve only grew stronger. I enrolled in college while raising my child, and two years later, I completed my studies. Soon, I began working at the Customs and Excise Department, my first and only place of employment.
While there, I saw new possibilities for myself and my family. I set clear goals: to own a home and earn higher qualifications. I worked hard and saved, ultimately achieving both around the same time—a home of my own and an Executive Diploma in Customs Management. These accomplishments were milestones, yet I wasn’t done. I aimed even higher, knowing that with each goal achieved, I was breaking down barriers not only for myself but also for my children.
With determination, I took several diploma courses to build a foundation for a Bachelor’s degree. In 2020, I earned my BSc in Border Management and received the Dean’s Awardfrom the Charles Stuart University. My efforts bore fruit: I achieved an Executive Diploma in Customs Management, followed by a Bachelor’s degree. For each graduation, each step, and each achievement, I saw not just a certificate or diploma, but a bridge for my family, a testament to our resilience.
In 2021, I hoped for a promotion, but it didn’t come. Undeterred, I kept moving forward. Later that year, I applied for scholarships to pursue a master’s degree. I was accepted to four universities but struggled to fund the program. I applied for a scholarship, but the appraisal process was challenging and felt tainted by personal bias. One person even told me, “This won’t stop you from finishing your master’s degree or not,” as if trying to discourage me. Though initially frustrated, I reminded myself of the verse “God will make a way where there seems to be no way.” I kept my faith, even though that first scholarship attempt was unsuccessful.
I deferred my enrollment until 2022 and tried again, this time following new advice on the application process. My persistence paid off, and I was awarded a scholarship. But my journey was far from easy. Balancing studies, work, and family responsibilities was a juggling act.
As I neared the end of my program, I faced even more challenges. One of the toughest moments came when I had to travel to support my eldest child through family difficulties. At the same time, my younger children were enduring thetrauma of hurricane byril. Communication was cut off, and I was forced to focus on their safety and well-being. Once I returned St. Vincent and the Grenadines, I worked tirelessly to complete my dissertation. However, just as I thought things were under control, my computer froze. My dissertation disappeared from the screen, leaving me in a panic. I took a deep breath, remembered the scripture “He who began a good work in you is able to bring it to completion,” and knelt by my bed to pray. When I returned to my computer approximately half an hour later, I searched and found the document intact. I quickly emailed it to myself, grateful and relieved.
I successfully submitted my dissertation and am now a proud graduate with an MSc in Business Management (Logistics and Supply Chain) from Edinburgh Napier University. Each accomplishment along this journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and unwavering determination.
Today, my journey from poverty to the palace of education stands as proof that our past doesn’t define our future. My mother, who was told that her children would “amount to nothing,” now sees her daughter as a living example of what’s possible when determination meets opportunity. Education opened doors that poverty once kept closed, and in walking through them, I fulfilled a promise to my three (3) children, my siblings, to my mother, and to myself. We have redefined our story, showing that with faith, resilience, and the unyielding support of loved ones, anything is achievable. My journey from poverty to the palace of education is proof that, with God’s help, nothing is impossible. To God be the glory—great things He has done.
Along this journey, I am deeply grateful for the many people who offered their support, encouragement, and resources. It’s true that no one reaches success entirely on their own, and I’ve been blessed with a network of people who believed in my dreams, even when circumstances were tough.
To my mother, Margaret Shallow, my rock and the foundation of my strength—I owe you everything. Your sacrifices lit the way for all of us, showing that a humble beginning doesn’t determine the end. You poured your strength into us, even when times were hard, and your unwavering dedication taught me resilience. I am also incredibly thankful to my family members and friends who encouraged me when doubts crept in. Whether they helped by looking after my children when I needed to study, cheering me on from afar, or lending a listening ear when the journey felt overwhelming, they each played a role in lifting me up.
To the teachers, mentors, and colleagues who guided me at each stage, thank you for your belief in me. Your wisdom and advice equipped me with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to excel in my field. And to the Government of St.Vicent and the Grenadines who provided the tuition scholarship, and other financial support—you may not know the lasting impact you’ve had, but your kindness empowered me to pursue my dreams.
Finally, my deepest gratitude goes to God, who made a way when there seemed to be none, and who sustained me through every challenge. This journey, from poverty to a place of achievement, has shown me that faith and determination can conquer any obstacle.
I’m eternally thankful for each person who, in their own way, contributed to this journey. This success is not just mine—it belongs to all who believed, encouraged, and lifted me up along the way.
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