By Sue-Ann Wayow
FOURTEEN years after receiving life-saving assistance through the Children’s Life Fund, recent Morvant Laventille Secondary School graduate Garyl Simmons is now an intern at a government office.
He started his first day on the job on Monday in the Information Communications Technology Services Division of the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence (MPAAI).
Simmons, 18, was one of the first beneficiaries of the Fund in 2011 and has set his sights on a career in the IT sector.
His internship represents the start of that journey, providing him with hands-on experience as he contributes to the government’s ongoing digital transformation efforts, a release from the ministry stated on Monday.
Upon his arrival his workplace at Tower C at the International Waterfront Centre in Port of Spain, Simmons was welcomed by Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence Dominic Smith and Permanent Secretary (Ag) Cory Belfon.
Smith congratulated Simmons on his achievements and encouraged him to make the most of the opportunities ahead, noting that he served as an example for other young people to pursue their goals.
Smith also expressed his appreciation for being part of Simmon’s recruitment process, calling it a deeply rewarding experience.
He emphasised the importance of investing in young people to help secure a successful future for themselves and their families.
As a symbolic gesture, Smith gifted Simmons with his Trinidad and Tobago flag pin, encouraging him to wear it as a reminder to represent his country with pride, the ministry stated.
In turn, Simmons expressed his excitement about joining the ministry and gratitude for the opportunity to intern in his chosen field. He also thanked those who helped make this milestone possible.
“I feel blessed by God, and I am thankful to my mother to be here,” Simmons said.
The ministry stated, “Garyl’s story reflects the lasting impact of transformative programmes like the Children’s Life Fund.
His journey is a testament to the potential of a digital future driven by talented young minds. As he steps into his role within the Ministry’s ICT Services Division, his experience serves as a reminder that with the right support, timing and mindset, anything is possible.”
Last week, Simmons and his mother Lorna Spencer had a wish fulfilled when they personally met Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and the entire Cabinet during last Thursday’s Cabinet meeting at the Diplomatic Centre where he was offered the internship.
His mother also accompanied him to the office on Monday.
