On October 9, I was able to share my thoughts in my response on behalf of fellow honorees at the 2025 Public Service Recognition Ceremony. Here is what I shared.
I made my 15 year anniversary in the Public Service in June 2024. Today, whether you mark 15 hours, days, weeks, months or years, or 15x2 or 15x3 years - this message is for you!
I want us to GLOW! Yes, bright like the light bulb in our Transformation logo!
G is for Get up
L is for Let’s get going
O is for Open the door
W is for We’ve naught to see in the dark
Go Light Our Way
I wrote those words on December 11, 2024. I guess I was inspired. On June 8, 2009, I got up, got going and opened a new door. It was my re-entry into the Public Service after a 6-year break. I’ve been inspired but unhappy at times, helped though demotivated some days, happy yet frustrated here and there, ignored however tremendously supported throughout this journey. Each negative experience was always countered with something positive because of the people I have held close in my circle. I thank every person who has encouraged me in this journey.
Today, I want to challenge every Public Officer to GLOW – Go Light Our Way.
G is for Grow. Your future is your responsibility. Take every opportunity to learn – not just for essential learning hours but your development. The knowledge you gain makes you a better person overall. You can make a difference in the community.
L is for Love. Start with loving yourself. Take time to eat, rest and enjoy yourself. There is no better feeling than hearing my coworkers burst into laughter during the day. Be good to each other. Be your brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Check in on your people – the ones who have had your back. To those of us with 10 years and more - we have to support the new officers coming in and guide them to be ready for leadership.
O is for Overcome. Life is full of challenges and our jobs can be stressful. Take time to pray. I must also remind you that we ought to check ourselves. Nothing is wrong with asking for help and showing your vulnerability. Utilize the services of the Employee Assistance Programme if you feel overwhelmed.
W is for Win. Winning means different things for each person. Don’t think that I’m living in the clouds – like I said, life is full of challenges. But, did you know that small wins count too? You may have a particular goal and sometimes, that’s not what God has in store for you. Count those small blessings and celebrate them.
So whether you have 15 hours, days, weeks, months or years or more left in your Public Service career, always give it your best shot.
Remember:
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I made my 15 year anniversary in the Public Service in June 2024. Today, whether you mark 15 hours, days, weeks, months or years, or 15x2 or 15x3 years - this message is for you!
I want us to GLOW! Yes, bright like the light bulb in our Transformation logo!
G is for Get up
L is for Let’s get going
O is for Open the door
W is for We’ve naught to see in the dark
Go Light Our Way
I wrote those words on December 11, 2024. I guess I was inspired. On June 8, 2009, I got up, got going and opened a new door. It was my re-entry into the Public Service after a 6-year break. I’ve been inspired but unhappy at times, helped though demotivated some days, happy yet frustrated here and there, ignored however tremendously supported throughout this journey. Each negative experience was always countered with something positive because of the people I have held close in my circle. I thank every person who has encouraged me in this journey.
Today, I want to challenge every Public Officer to GLOW – Go Light Our Way.
G is for Grow. Your future is your responsibility. Take every opportunity to learn – not just for essential learning hours but your development. The knowledge you gain makes you a better person overall. You can make a difference in the community.
L is for Love. Start with loving yourself. Take time to eat, rest and enjoy yourself. There is no better feeling than hearing my coworkers burst into laughter during the day. Be good to each other. Be your brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Check in on your people – the ones who have had your back. To those of us with 10 years and more - we have to support the new officers coming in and guide them to be ready for leadership.
O is for Overcome. Life is full of challenges and our jobs can be stressful. Take time to pray. I must also remind you that we ought to check ourselves. Nothing is wrong with asking for help and showing your vulnerability. Utilize the services of the Employee Assistance Programme if you feel overwhelmed.
W is for Win. Winning means different things for each person. Don’t think that I’m living in the clouds – like I said, life is full of challenges. But, did you know that small wins count too? You may have a particular goal and sometimes, that’s not what God has in store for you. Count those small blessings and celebrate them.
So whether you have 15 hours, days, weeks, months or years or more left in your Public Service career, always give it your best shot.
Remember:
- Your development and upward mobility start with your efforts and attitude
- Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow
- Network and collaborate with other Public Officers
- Always be honest with your feedback and be willing to accept the feedback when it comes to you. Feedback is not an attack
- Have a positive attitude with a focus on finding solutions
- Keep your customers at heart - we are here to serve the Public - treat them the way you expect to be treated
- Be open to stretching yourself - your development sits in your hands
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