In the field of public health, where health inspectors diligently work to ensure the safety and well-being of communities, one individual stands out not only for their commitment to public health but also for their exceptional talents in the world of crafts. Meet Donetta Doris-Russell, a public health inspector whose passion for education, health, and crafts has not only earned her a prestigious award but a scholarship as well.
She grew up with her parents and siblings at Pln. Profit, and they later relocated to Litchfield. Donetta’s academic journey began at Lichfield Primary, after which she attended Bush Lot Secondary. With a passion for health and education, Donetta pursued a certificate in Environmental Health at the Ministry of Health’s Nursing Annex. She graduated in 2014 and started her career as an Environmental Health Assistant/Public Health Inspector in 2015.
With a keen eye for detail, she dedicated her career to inspecting establishments, ensuring they met health and safety standards. However, Donetta’s life was not solely confined to health inspections; her creative side yearned for expression. Donetta has been married to Mr. Daylon Russell for over 7 years and is a devoted Christian.
In her spare time, she immersed herself in the world of crafting. By creating intricate handcrafted goods, she found joy in the process of making things by hand. Little did she know that her two seemingly disparate worlds would eventually converge in a way that would set her on an extraordinary path.
As Donetta’s crafting skills continued to flourish, friends and family began to take notice of her unique creations. Encouraged by the positive feedback, she decided to turn her passion into a business. Her initiative produced products that were environmentally friendly home goods, as she aimed to protect the environment by recycling. She recycled tires to make sofas, bottle florals, and wall decor, among other items. Her creations were also aesthetically pleasing. She also used products from the environment to create crafty items.
Donetta also pursued studies via the University of Guyana’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). There, she earned the distinction of being the best graduating student in English and Office Administration (Academic Upgrading Program).
Doris-Russell also attended the University of Canada West (UCW), where she received the opportunity to attend many academic training programs. Via UCW, she attended the 2023 Global Emerging Leadership Program (GELP) which is the global summit for career and skill development. It is Canada’s largest global virtual youth skills summit, and in 2023, their objective is to engage over 10,000 students and young professionals from around the world.
The Summit platform is made to be accessible and equitable to all students, irrespective of their background, and creates a safe place for diverse communities to share their lived experiences. GELP seeks to foster a global community of practice around diversity, equity, and inclusion.
At the GELP summit, Doris-Russell was the only South American and Guyanese recipient of the prestigious Global Leadership Award.
She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in environmental health with focus on occupational safety and health at the University of Guyana while also balancing her duties as an inspector.
Donetta also received a GOAL scholarship with the Government of Guyana where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Public Health.
Matthew 22 says, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” As such, Donetta’s interests extend beyond academics, as she actively strives to assist those in need within her community.
As a public health inspector, she has knowledge of the housing rules, as such she provides guidance and Assist the residents in her community with her skill in architectural drawing and filling building application forms.
Donetta’s commitment to both her professional and personal lives makes her a remarkable individual dedicated to positive change.
Doris-Russell advises youth by saying, “You can do anything as long as you put your mind to it and focus.”
Her favourite quote from the bible is: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’, this helps motivate and remind her that she can do anything.
“No matter what kind of person you are, 1 implore you: Try. Try to make the world a better place. Look inside yourself and recognize that change starts with you,” is a quote from the movie Zootopia that keeps her motivated.
In the future, Donetta plans to further her studies and sharpen her crafty skills.
Doris-Russell’s story stands as a symbol of the endless possibilities that arise when passion and profession intersect. Her success story encourages others to explore their interests outside their primary fields, demonstrating that innovation often emerges from unexpected combinations.
