Union Island Resident Displaced by Hurricane Beryl Tops DTVE Certificate in Agriculture Programme 

By Admin. Updated 5:13 p.m., Saturday, July 5, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). 

After losing almost everything to Hurricane Beryl and being displaced to mainland St. Vincent, Union Island resident Mulisha Ward-James sought a way to cope with her struggles. 

Her decision to enrol in the Certificate of General Agriculture programme has now borne fruit, as she has finished top of her class. She plans to use her newly acquired skills to help rebuild Union Island.

“Being displaced by Hurricane Beryl was one of the most difficult experiences of my life. Everything familiar was suddenly taken away, but instead of sitting in despair, I decided to use that moment to grow—literally and figuratively,” she told One News SVG in an exclusive interview.

She added: “Agriculture offered a sense of purpose, healing, and hope. I wanted to reconnect with the land and be part of something that could not only rebuild my own life but also empower my community. That’s what pushed me to take the leap and pursue the course.”

The 30-year-old businesswoman, who primarily operates in the tourism and hospitality sector, said her business experience also proved beneficial.

“My background as a businesswoman, especially in the food and beverage and cake industries, taught me discipline, time management, and how to stay innovative. I brought that same mindset into agriculture. I didn’t just study the theory—I was constantly thinking about how to make it practical, profitable, and sustainable. It helped me look at agriculture not just as farming, but as a full business with potential for community impact and entrepreneurship,” she explained.

Meanwhile, one of her main lecturers, Michker Edwards-Porter, Programme Coordinator of the Agriculture Programme at DTVE, told One News SVG that the “Certificate in General Agriculture programme was birthed from necessity, an urgent response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in 2024.”

“With food security hanging in the balance, we opened the door wider to give more Vincentians the chance to be part of the solution. This one-year programme offers hands-on training, practical skills, and a pathway to rebuilding stronger, more resilient communities through agriculture,” Mrs Edwards-Porter said.

Mrs. Ward-James, the successful graduate, described some of the challenges she faced during the one-year programme at the SVGCC’s Division of Technical and Vocational Education.

“One of the biggest challenges was being away from my family and my home in Union Island. That emotional distance weighed heavily on me. I also had to juggle school with managing my small business and dealing with the emotional aftermath of displacement. But every obstacle became a lesson in resilience. I stayed focused on my purpose, and that kept me going.”

Ms Ward-James also reflected on her feelings of success.

“I attribute my success to God first, and then to my determination and mindset. Also, my family—my biggest cheerleaders. I was focused on the bigger picture from day one. I didn’t allow my circumstances to define me. Weekend sacrifices, sleepless nights, and class motivation—I used them as fuel. I also surrounded myself with people who encouraged me, and I stayed consistent with my studies. Passion, discipline, and prayer carried me through.”

Her lecturer, Michker Edwards-Porter, commented:

“Mulisha’s journey stands as a shining example of why this initiative matters. Coming from Union Island, a community severely impacted by the hurricane, she had no prior background in agriculture. Yet, she applied herself with unwavering determination. She showed up on weekends, volunteered beyond her course requirements, asked thoughtful questions, and consistently sought clarity to deepen her understanding.”

“After her home and food business were destroyed by Hurricane Beryl a year ago, she temporarily relocated to the mainland, determined to start over. Reinventing herself against all odds, she rose with strength and focus. She went above and beyond, embracing every learning opportunity with heart and grit. Mulisha’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and transformation. I believe she will make a great contribution to her home island upon her return. She is living proof that agriculture is not just farming. It is a future, a calling, and a powerful way to contribute to national development,” Mrs Edwards-Porter added.

Mrs Ward-James now plans to use the skills gained in the programme to help rebuild Union Island.

“I plan to share the knowledge I’ve gained through workshops, school talks, and hands-on community projects. I want to empower youth especially, showing them that agriculture is not just about digging in the soil—it’s about sustainability, innovation, and opportunity. My dream is to start a small agricultural hub where others can learn, grow, and even launch their own agribusinesses,” she said.

She continued: “In the programme, I gained several valuable skills such as sustainable agriculture practices, water conservation techniques, soil management, and climate-resilient farming methods. I also was involve in agro-processing, livestock on different scale. I also learned how to implement small-scale irrigation systems and use mulching and composting to retain soil moisture”.

She said: “These skills are especially useful for Union Island, which often faces drought conditions. By applying water-saving techniques and promoting drought-resistant crops, we can help local farmers maintain productivity even during dry spells. This knowledge can also support community efforts in building more sustainable food systems and reducing dependency on external food sources”.

When asked whether her experience has changed her perspective on agriculture or her future career goals, she replied:

“Absolutely. I now see agriculture as more than just a career—it’s a calling. It has opened my eyes to how vital it is for food security, climate resilience, and economic empowerment. My future goals now include starting my own agri-business and becoming an advocate for youth involvement in agriculture across the Grenadines.”

James Ward, whose favourite scripture is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13), said, “Even when life gets tough, I always show up with a smile. I believe joy is great strength.”

She thanked all of her lecturers, classmates, relatives, friends and well-wishers for their support.

She also offered advice to individuals facing difficulties in life.

“Don’t let your pain paralyse you; let it push you. Every difficult season holds hidden potential. Focus on what you can do, not what you lost. Use the time to build yourself—learn something new, start a project, volunteer, or take a course. Age or background doesn’t define you. Even the smallest steps forward will eventually lead you to places you never imagined. You are not a victim of your circumstances—you are a survivor. Living testimony,” she said.

Her lecturer also has a message for prospective students.

“To every young person out there wondering what is next: agriculture is a path worth walking. Come join us at DTVE this September. Be the change. Grow your future.”

The DTVE offers two programmes in Agriculture. While Mrs. Ward-James topped the one-year certificate programme, the two-year associate degree programme was topped by Ms. Zaylie Lewis this year.

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