Dr. Gabrielle Walcott-Bedeau

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Leadership is not about you; it’s about those you lead. Focus on the development of the people around you. Help them to grow into their full potential—this is a successful leader!

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

Women are historically under-represented in STEM, academia and leadership especially in the Caribbean. Being appointed as an Associate Professor and Assistant Provost allows me the opportunity to be a role model, an advocate, a mentor, and an innovative thinker/decision maker.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

Pay it forward! Create a space for future generations to remain curious about science, access resources for growth and development, and get connected with supportive mentors.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

For over 10 years, I served as Quiz-mistress/Academic Consultant for Grenada’s Brain Bee Challenge—a competition focused on high school students engaging with grassroots neuroscience. In 2018, our finalist placed second at the International Brain Bee, a remarkable achievement for our small island.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

As a Caribbean Woman in Science, joining AWIS created a sense of belonging. I needed a community that provided resources to support my personal and professional growth. The webinars are the best! They addressed topics such as empowerment, visibility, mentorship and even access to funding.

What is your favorite word?

Equanimity.

How do you define it?

The effort to maintain a state of composure especially in stressful and difficult situations.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Equanimity teaches thoughtful engagement, deliberate pause, and measured response. It is useful especially in crisis management, conflict resolution, team management, navigating uncertainty, receiving feedback, and celebrating successes. I remain open-minded, goal-oriented, and humble.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

The advocacy, career and resources tab are filled with opportunities for development, e.g. ‘free’ resume reviews, contributor to online blogs, courses.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

The podcast The Diary of A CEO with Steven Bartlett.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

Growth takes time; be patient. Success is achieved by 99% consistency and 1% luck.

Dr. Gabrielle Walcott-Bedeau, an Associate Professor at St. George’s University, and Assistant Provost, holds a MD alongside post-grad certification in medical education and an MBA in Health-Sector Administration. Her research focuses on innovative elements of medical education, e.g. simulation, gamification, and music in the classroom. Her diversified experience in health/medical education, clinical practice and research was acquired during her time in Guyana, Trinidad and Grenada.