One of SVG’s newest attorneys credits God, family for success

One of St Vincent and the Grenadines’ newest attorneys, who overcame numerous challenges, including working at a fish market and a store “just to earn some extra cash” has credited God and her family for her newfound success.

“This moment is the culmination of years of hard work, determination and- let’s be honest, more than a few tears shed, sleepless nights fuelled by several cups of coffee, especially when I was frustrated. I could share a thousand stories about my struggles that have brought me to this point, but to save this Honourable Court’s time, the story I will tell is that my God did not fail me,” Counsel Natalia Olliverre said in her address to the High Court on November 6, 2024 after her application to be called to the bar was accepted by Justice Rickie Burnett.

She outlined the journey of her foundation that started with the Campden Park Methodist Church, the Lowmans Leeward Anglican School and her Alma Mater, Bishop’s College Kingstown.

“These institutions moulded me into the person I am today. As an honour roll student at Bishop’s College, I initially pursued science subjects, dreaming of becoming a Paediatrician.”

Olliverre said that she thought her calling was to care for children because of her love of them and her younger siblings.

“I had no thoughts of the law much less becoming an attorney -at- law but somehow, God had different

plans for me as I found myself on a new path doing my Associate Degree programme in Paralegal Studies at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College. I can never forget my first appearance in court, not as an accused, of course, but as a student Defence Attorney for the Coreas 50th Anniversary Mooting Competition.”

She explained that being in that moot courtroom made her realize that she wanted to be an Attorney- at- law.

“The journey was not easy for both my family and I. I remember working at the fish market, blistering my hands packing fish, and at Mr. Sassine’s store, just to earn

some extra cash. My cousin, Danica Cyrus, would often bring me lunch to help me through my days at school and Aunty Camaty Cyrus, who I love dearly, stepped in as a guiding force since my father was not there,” Olliverre said.

She added that her mother, Natalie Ollivierre, stepfather Winston De Freitas, and her Uncle Sean, have been her bedrock.

“Each sacrifice you made, each scolding, each word of encouragement, and every moment of guidance, protection and laughter, lifted me through the demanding days of study. Growing up, I witnessed the struggles my mother faced just to be able to provide for us. She didn’t have it easy, nor did she have all the answers or means; but despite everything, she raised me with strength and prayers.”

Olliverre said her mother Natalie, may not think of herself as perfect, but she holds that her mother embodies what it means to persevere and love unconditionally.