Asha Morton Success Story - Division of Education, Research and Technology

DIVISION OF EDUCATION, SKILLS AND INNOVATION

SUCCESS STORY

Asha Morton

Health Education Facilitator

Owner: L'abeille Tropicale

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)- Food Science & Technology

What inspired you to pursue studies in Food Science and Technology, and what steps did you take to achieve your goal?

My passion for food and a strong family background in catering, farming, and culinary arts inspired me to study Food Science and Technology. I wanted to combine my love for food with scientific knowledge of how food is grown, processed, prepared, and made safe, particularly to benefit Tobago. I pursued formal education at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and gained both theoretical and practical training that prepared me to serve my community effectively.

Today, this foundation supports my work as a Health Education Facilitator, where I translate food science concepts into practical guidance for individuals, communities and food business operators.

How did you plan financially to achieve your goal?

I carefully budgeted my resources and actively sought scholarships and financial support to ensure I could remain focused on my studies. This planning allowed me to balance my academic responsibilities with my long-term goal of contributing meaningfully to Tobago’s food safety, public health and education sectors.

What challenges did you experience?

Balancing the financial demands of higher education with personal and professional responsibilities, while managing a demanding academic workload, was my greatest challenge.

What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges?

I relied on careful planning, strong time management, and an unwavering focus on my purpose—using my skills to serve Tobago. Additionally, my children remain a major source of motivation. I strive to be a role model for them, so they will remember that “Mommy never gave up. Mommy always gets the job done, and so can they.”

How did DATAS make a difference in your overcoming these challenges?

The Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS) bursary significantly relieved my financial stress, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and professional development. DATAS support reinforced my confidence and strengthened my commitment in completing my programme and applying my training in real-world public health and food safety settings.

Describe a specific moment when you realised the impact of this support on your journey.

I realised the true impact of this support when I could dedicate myself entirely to learning, without the added burden of worrying about accommodation and basic needs. This allowed me to gain critical knowledge and practical skills that I now actively apply in my work.

As a Health Education Facilitator, I use my education to deliver lectures and training sessions on food safety, hygiene, and general public health. I provide evidence-based insight to communities, collaborate with Health Inspectors on food safety matters, and support enforcement efforts through education and risk communication.

Recently, I co-facilitated a food safety seminar with a colleague from the Public Health Department in collaboration with the School Nutrition Unit. The reception was amazing; it was a full circle moment.

This provided the drive to begin supporting small food manufacturing businesses, helping them understand food safety requirements, improve handling and processing practices, reduce contamination risks, and move toward regulatory compliance. These experiences provide the practical value of my education and the lasting impact of DATAS’ support.

What message would you share with others considering your career path?

Pursue this your dreams with passion. Food Science and Technology equips you to improve food safety, nutrition, and public health in meaningful ways. There are many career avenues available—regulatory, educational, entrepreneurial, and consultancy. If an existing path does not fit, create out your own, that’s where the adventure is. Let me emphasize: Creating your own niche is an adventure all on its own.

I started my business: L’abeille Tropicale for the same reason. It gives me new challenges creatively I do wines and kombucha using local produce.

How has this opportunity changed your outlook on the future, and what are your plans moving forward?

This opportunity strengthened my commitment to using my skills for the benefit of Tobago. By enhancing health education, promoting safe and sustainable food practices, and working with local farmers and communities to build a healthier, stronger Tobago.

Moving forward, I also plan to increase my business capacity, currently working on some new products.

I am deeply grateful to DATAS for empowering me to give back to my island.

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