31/07/2024
Running three canteens while managing a catering business and studying was an incredibly tough challenge. The demands of overseeing daily operations, coordinating catering events, and keeping up with academic commitments often felt overwhelming. I had to master the art of multitasking and time management to stay on top of everything.
My days often started before dawn and ended late into the night. I remember heading to the market early in the morning, listening to class lectures on my way to ensure I didn't fall behind in my studies. This continued throughout the day as I balanced attending events, managing the canteens, and preparing for exams and presentations. The constant pressure required a high level of organization and resilience.
One memorable experience was catering a wedding at Rose Hall Great House in Montego Bay. I was in the midst of cooking when I had to pause to sit for an exam. Even while driving, there were times I had to pull over to complete a presentation, demonstrating the extent of the balancing act I was performing.
The late nights of studying and early mornings of work became a routine. There were moments of exhaustion and doubt, but I kept pushing forward, driven by a quote from William Arthur Ward: "Study while others are sleeping; work while others are loafing; prepare while others are playing; and dream while others are wishing." This quote was a constant reminder of the importance of hard work and dedication.
I am incredibly grateful to all the people who supported and motivated me throughout this journey. Their encouragement kept me going during the toughest times. Balancing these responsibilities was far from easy, but it taught me invaluable lessons in perseverance, time management, and the power of a strong support system.
