Marietta Carrington is director of human resources, communication, fund raising, and client development – The Substance Abuse Foundation Inc.
Are you where you’ve always wanted to be?
I have grown and evolved as a person and as a professional over the years, so where I wanted to be has changed as I evolved and grew. I joined Verdun House – a place of healing from addiction in April 2013 after what most would consider a very successful career in the corporate world.
I am absolutely convinced that I am where I am supposed to be. I can’t think of anywhere I would rather be than within the therapeutic environs of Verdun House. I have committed myself daily to fulfil Verdun’s mission of helping addicted persons heal and lead productive lives.
What is your biggest professional challenge?
I am working for a charitable foundation where resources are always stretched to the maximum. This can make it difficult to get the “more” that is essential to treating clients. It is a challenge.
What is your biggest life challenge?
Keeping true to myself amidst all the “noise” around me. There is also something liberating about arriving at 50.
It is where I felt that I could give myself permission to do what makes my heart sing. That is an ongoing process which can present a challenge at times.
When you look to the future what do you see?
I do not ignore nor pretend that everything is ‘hunky dory’, but I choose to see a world that has enough for everyone. I choose to see the good in every one of God’s children.
What is your favourite pastime?
Dancing – Latin, ballroom, line dancing, square dancing (in the 1980s and 1990s). In fact, any type of dancing. It has been my favourite pastime for a very, very long time (more than 30 years). I go into “nothingness” when I am dancing. I feel free and unencumbered. It is my main form of exercise.
What is your favourite meal?
I have been a vegetarian for about 12 years. I don’t have a specific favourite meal but you are sure to bring a smile to my face if you plate-up grilled salmon, shrimp or barracuda served with stir fried vegetables and bulgar wheat.
On Saturday nights where are you likely to be?
That would depend on what’s going on that weekend. It can range from attendance at one of the dance club’s events, reading, surfing the Internet or relaxing after a self-renewal visit to the hairdresser and spa. I spoil myself most weekends.
What upsets you the most?
I have a low tolerance for low standards. Why do we think that because we are small we must be substandard?
What is your guiding philosophy?
Mediocrity is not a standard.
If you had the chance to manage Barbados for a day, what would you do?
I wouldn’t want to be in a position to manage Barbados, not even for a day. It is far too easy to manage or lead anything when you are in the spectators’ booth. If I had no choice I would hope that I would be humble enough to always seek divine guidance and be bold and courageous enough to lead well, especially when I have to make the tough calls.
