Who is Danielle Howell?
I am a twenty-seven year old graduate of the University of the West Indies who pursued a BSc in Environmental and Natural Resources Management. Upon completion, I interned at the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency in 2015 before moving on to the Department of Emergency Management as a Technical Consultant where I have been for the last four and a half years. I am passionate about the importance of being knowledgeable and prepared for disasters as well as being environmentally conscious.
Professionally offline, I enjoy trying new recipes and restaurants, spending time with my family, partaking in marine activities and catching up on naps.
What do you consider the most rewarding aspect of working in this field?
The most rewarding aspect of working in this field is the opportunity to engage with individuals of various levels and backgrounds and ensuring that they are cognizant and prepared for any eventuality.
What do you find most challenging about working in Disaster Risk Management?
The most challenging aspect of working in Disaster Risk Management is the fact that some persons pay very little attention to disaster management until there is a crisis. Disaster Risk Management is not a very attractive topic, therefore getting persons to take it serious or get involved can be tedious.
What advice would you offer someone who is interested in pursuing a career similar to yours?
I would advise them to go for it! You have to be a people’s person as you interact with so many persons sometimes on a daily basis alone. It can also be a thankless job but personally, it’s very rewarding knowing that you are giving back to your community and country.
We noticed that you’re an avid volunteer. How important do you consider volunteering to be when entering the workforce?
I am a volunteer with the Kiwanis Young Professionals of Barbados (Past Secretary and Membership Director) and the Caribbean Youth Environmental Network (CYEN) where I am currently the Project Coordinator. Volunteering gives me a great sense of pride when I participate in activities that I know contribute to the betterment of my community and my country. Activities I would have previously participated in are feeding the homeless initiatives and the International Coastal Clean-Up.
What is your most memorable accomplishment to date?
My most memorable accomplishment to date is becoming 2020 Chevening Scholar! The Chevening Scholarship is an international scholarship scheme which enables students with leadership qualities from over 160 countries and territories to undertake postgraduate study or courses in universities in the United Kingdom.
This fall, October 2020, I will be starting my Chevening Journey in the United Kingdom at the University of Portsmouth where I will be pursuing an MSc in Coastal and Marine Resources Management.
What is one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you?
One thing I would say that persons would be surprised to learn about me is that I am a born and bred Country girl. I enjoy roast breadfruit and climbing my aunt’s plum tree to get fresh plums.
Is there anything else that you'd like to share?
I would just encourage all persons to prepare and be aware.
Be persistent and consistent.
Follow your dreams and don’t stop until you achieve them.
