5 minutes with Shelley McLetchie-Holder

Briefly, tell us about your background and career up to this point?

I migrated from Trinidad and Tobago in 1990 to undertake my nurse training. I qualified as a Project 2000 nurse in 1993, worked as a community nurse for one year and then qualified as a midwife in 1996.

Having worked as a midwife for two years, I had a complete yearning to become a health visitor, to build and strengthen relationships with families and further enhance my public health role.

Health Visiting is where I found my niche. I became quite senior in my role as a health visitor, but it was my role as a Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Practice Educator which fostered my transition into Higher Education.

What has your experience of doing a Doctorate in Education been like so far?

I am undertaking the EdD alongside full time work and family commitments, so it has indeed been challenging. I am constantly at work, but this is what I have signed up to do. The EdD is demanding, but the structure of the course has helped me to plan and organise my time. On reflection, it has by and large been a positive experience.

How do you think your research has changed your teaching practice?

Undoubtedly, my research skills and knowledge have been strengthened and I am much more confident in supporting students as they undertake their projects and dissertations. My ability to be critical with my thinking and writing has also been strengthened. I fully understand what I want from my students as critical thinkers as they prepare to be leaders and advocates in the workforce.

What do you do with your time outside of work?

My daily walks on the Grand Union Canal are a must. It is a sure way of winding down and de-stressing. I am a wife and mother of two, so needless to say my days are filled! I participate in the Notting Hill Carnival, and a lot of my social activities involve contributing to the various disciplines of the carnival. I absolutely adore musicals and attend on a regular basis., My nephew is currently Fletcher in the Bodyguard! I also played tennis when I was younger, so I love everything to do with tennis.

What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

There’s a big wide world out there, take all opportunities available to you. Stop waiting for the right moment, there is no right moment, don’t wait to be inspired, get things done. Not every day is going to be a great day, some days will simply be awful, such is life!

My 18 year old self was:

Living in Tobago, I was fun, happy and enjoyed life, but I was also enquiring about life and society around me. Considering the limited opportunities available to me, I made the decision to migrate to the UK.

Who inspires you most and why?

Serena Williams. Though retired from competing, in my eyes, she is awesome! I love her grit and her determination. I loved how she always found that winning formula, especially when losing. She is a huge inspiration to me.

My parents continue to inspire me greatly. They are both now retired, but during their working lives, they achieved lots, contributed enormously to their societies and built a great foundation for their children. My father retired as a Director of Health Education in Trinidad &Tobago and my mum as a Headteacher.

Quick-fire...

What is your favourite book?

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings byMaya Angelou. Itplays on every emotion, touching and truly memorable.

Describe yourself in three words…

Authentic, adaptable, measured.

Ideal dinner party guests:

Oprah Winfrey, a superior woman leader; Barrack Obama, a skilful communicator and Freddie Mercury or Elton John to provide the best entertainment to the party.

One thing you could not go a day without:

My face make-up and silver jewellery!