Jeanelle Harris has made history as the first female regimental sergeant major of the Saint Lucia Cadet Corps, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s 95-year history.
Harris, from Belle Vue, Vieux-Fort, joined the Cadet Corps in 1999. She has served for 25 years. Despite stigma against women in the Corps, she persevered. Now, she has since become a trailblazer for young women in Saint Lucia.
Harris teaches at Belle Vue Combined School. She inspires others and believes the organization fosters discipline, leadership, and positive social change.
Role of the Saint Lucia Cadet Corps
The Saint Lucia Cadet Corps, established on July 13, 1929, plays a key role in military and community activities. Moreover, it operates in more than 20 secondary schools. The Government of Saint Lucia supports it through the Ministry of Education. The Cadet Corps inspires young people to serve their country and community while developing good citizenship.
An Honor and a Milestone Achievement
Harris said becoming the first female regimental sergeant major is an honor.
Additionally, Harris stated “I feel elated, and I am pleased that the leadership of the organization has placed confidence in me, knowing that I am capable, and this is the reason that I was given this appointment. I see this as not only for me but for the young women in Saint Lucia to say to them that we can move up the ladder in any field we put our minds to.”
Encouraging Young Women to Join
Harris encourages young women to join the Cadet Corps. She continues to dispel stigma, noting there is no discrimination within the organization.
Further, she expressed her belief in a fair and just society, adding that the Saint Lucia Cadet Corps upholds these principles and serves as a force for social change.
“When it comes to battling crime and some of the other social ills of society, I think our organization can be at the forefront of this through continuing to instill discipline, service and leadership.”
A Force for Positive Change
Harris believes the Cadet Corps can help individuals gain skills and avoid negative influences.
“With so many of our young people dying and killing each other, I believe that the Cadet Corps has a role to play in making that change,” she said.
Colonel Nathan Hyacinth currently leads the Saint Lucia Cadet Corps.
Source/Photo credit: St. Lucia Times
