As an IWRM Intern in Jamaica, Walcott-Pierre was formally welcomed by the Deputy General Manager of the Water Resources Authority (WRA)- Geoffrey Marshall, who shared oversight of the organisation’s departments and responsibilities.
As part of this process, she also attended a monthly Resource Planning and Investigations Unit meeting and Investigations Unit- participating in field activities- under the organisations Essex Valley Agricultural Development Project- where she was able to collect ground water samples and measure the depths at limestone wells, assess in-situ water quality parameters. The samples collected were delivered to the Government’s laboratory for testing for pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen. They were also tested for indicators like nitrate, coliform counts and sulphate, etc.
Describing her most impactful experience, the visit to the Essex Valley Agricultural Region- Walcott-Pierre explained that “Coming from a predominantly volcanic island, it was enlightening to be exposed to new geological features and see the relationship with land use, water resources, and agriculture.”
“While there are resources like aquifers and springs which are important for irrigation and drinking water. The valley has mostly karstic limestone and alluvial aquifers, both of which are critical for the region's water supply. The primary implications of these features are centered around agriculture and water management,” she added.
This hands-on experience was pivotal in enhancing her understanding of groundwater management, geological features, land use, water resources, and agriculture and reinforcing her interest in pursuing a career as a public health practitioner.
Terrisha’s internship also allowed her to observe how governmental and non-governmental institutions collaborate to ensure the equitable management of water and land resources while maintainingecosystems and frameworks for decision-making.
She reiterated her appreciation for the opportunity, explaining that it provided her with valuable insights into the field of groundwater management and reinforced her interest in pursuing a career as a public health practitioner.
She said, “The skills and knowledge I gained will be instrumental in my future endeavors. Overall, my internship at the WRA was a highly rewarding experience that contributed significantly to my professional and personal growth. I am grateful to Global Water Partnership-Caribbean and the regional colleagues for their support and guidance throughout the internship.”
Terrisha Walcott-Pierre is one of the young professionals that completed the GWP-C WAY Academy, held in 2023.It comprised of a three-month comprehensive online training, which aimed at enhancing the skills of Caribbean young leaders and professionals between the ages of 20-35.
The 2023 edition of the GWP-C WAY programme aimed to provide sound evidence-based capacity-building opportunities to youth, improving essential service delivery systems, confidence in systems management, living standards improvement and provide improved investment opportunities among thirty (31) young professionals.
The GWP-C WAY Programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6-Access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene.