Natasha has had the misfortune to suffer both discrimination due to a hearing disability and redundancy but, true to the ABE way she rose above it with determination to achieve. She more than proved herself, not only did she gain her ABE qualification she also got the highest pass worldwide and won a Top Paper Award. She plans to continue her academic studies and secure a senior management position. She says, "You have to be strong and have like-minded individuals around you that will support and motivate you and be there for you when times are tough or you need a boost of encouragement even a push to stay on course." #ABEway. Here's her story:
"My name is Natasha Charles, I reside in Chaguanas, Trinidad. I am trying to achieve as much as I can in this life to be able to fit in and be accepted as a result of my hearing disability. I have now officially completed an academic course for the first time in my life, which is ABE. I have been employed as an Accounts Clerk however, in 2021, I was told blatantly by my ex-employer that I wasn’t fit for my job due to my hearing disability. Moreover, in March 2022 I was retrenched after 16 years.
I have chosen to study ABE as my desire was to one day complete a course in Business Management (apart from my studies which is FIA with ACCA that I have not completed in full to date). ABE was to enhance my knowledge and qualifications so that I have the opportunity to gain more experience and add value to an organisation. Additionally, I felt it was urgent to return to school due to increasing competition at the workplace with more new highly qualified entrants every year. I had been overlooked for promotion or job advancement as many institutions view qualifications over experience as well as being victimised at work due to a physical disability. All these things have led me to pursue the Business Management and Human Resources programme.
I believe in Trinidad and Tobago, many employers give greater consideration to ABE qualifications when reviewing an individual’s resume or employment applications as it provides an advantage to the organisation. ABE studies provide insight into the roles and duties within an organisation such as expectations and performance, for example, emotional intelligence, discipline, effectiveness, and time management amongst other added values.
Now I have completed my ABE, I will continue the journey with my academic studies, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (BABA) with CTS College. I am also seeking employment.
The best thing about studying ABE is the different pathways that can be chosen, the time frame, and the flexibility it offers. I also found the guidance and professional help provided by my college when I felt overwhelmed by my studies to be exceptional, with motivational support and encouragement. I believe that after pursuing ABE, I've gained greater flexibility, time management, problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills along with other knowledge, this will benefit not only me personally but any employer I'm based with as I'll be able to make a significant contribution.
Some helpful tips to consider when pursuing an ABE course or any academic studies. A programme once attempted needs to be aimed at through self-discipline, because giving up isn’t an option, as I have fought hard and diligently to reach this point. Yes, I will admit that hard work is required, and lots of research is needed, using your strengths, and time management is a very important skill to have and develop during the process. Also, pay attention to what the lecture teaches during the course and use the resources which are provided by ABE. Furthermore, seek advice from programme staff, team leaders, lecturers, or anyone you feel comfortable with at any time through your journey when you may feel lost or confused.
You have to be strong and have like-minded individuals around you that will support and motivate you and be there for you when times are tough or you need a boost of encouragement even a push to stay on course. One of the most important tips is the selection of courses you can handle within each semester. Selecting too many at a time might be too difficult, especially when balancing family life and work. The clashing of many assignments, group projects, or exams at the same time may be too overwhelming to handle. Therefore, planning and discussions are needed for successful academic achievement.
In the future, I intend to be in a supervisory role either as a Finance Manager or Business Manager. I have the experience (16 years from my past employment) and hopefully soon I'll attain the qualifications necessary to secure such a position. I wish to achieve those goals as I would be proud to see myself grow and elevated. It will reflect on my hard work and determination, especially since reaching this far with a disability would be a miraculous accomplishment.
I would like to thank most and foremost God without prayers I would have never have made it this far, plus my family, my friends (some I met along the way while pursuing ABE). I would also like to thank my lecturers, and my programme manager for all the assistance, support, and patience they have afforded me throughout the entire ABE programme."