“The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.”
This quote, from the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, isn’t just an inspiration for Chefanices Williams — it’s her personal mantra.
Ms Williams, a 25-year-old educational therapist, embodies determination and resilience while navigating the complexities of young adulthood in Bermuda, all while building a meaningful career and nurturing her family.
Her journey mirrors the challenges that many young Bermudians face: a challenging job market,
rising living costs, and the pressure to balance personal ambitions with family responsibilities.
“I’m a proud mother to a beautiful 19-month-old daughter and a loving wife,” she shared. “My journey has been anything but easy, but every challenge has shaped me.”
SELF-IMPROVEMENT THROUGH EDUCATION
Born and raised in Bermuda, Ms Williams attended The Berkeley Institute, where she earned her nursing assistant certification through a dual-enrolment programme.
Driven by a passion for helping others, she took a leap of faith to study social work at Northern Caribbean University in Jamaica.
“My mother worked tirelessly to support me, but finances were tight,” she recalled.
To fund her education, she cleaned homes after school and worked multiple summer jobs.
Her perseverance paid off with a scholarship from the Bermuda Education Network, enabling her to complete her degree.
Finding employment upon returning home was another hurdle.
“Many millennials like myself return with degrees, hopeful for opportunities, only to face closed doors. But giving up wasn’t an option,” she said.
Her breakthrough came when a Workforce Development representative connected her with the Women’s Treatment Centre.
“That role was a turning point. I gained firsthand experience supporting individuals battling addiction, which deepened my empathy and understanding of recovery.”
COMPASSIONATE CAREER
That experience led to a position at the Right Living House, a therapeutic programme within Bermuda’s prison system.
“Working with men in recovery challenged me to lead with vulnerability and compassion. It taught me to meet people where they are and walk alongside them as they rebuild their lives,” she explained.
In her role today, Ms Williams guides students through their own challenges.
“I tell my students: success isn’t a straight line. There will be struggles, but persistence is key.”
She remains committed to her professional growth, with plans to pursue a doctorate in behavioural science.
EMBRACE KEY MOMENTS
Ms Williams also speaks passionately about gender dynamics in the workplace.
“Women still face significant hurdles. We often have to work twice as hard to be acknowledged, especially in leadership roles. Equal pay and respect aren’t just ideals — they should be non-negotiable standards,” she said.
“But these challenges fuel my drive. Women are creative, capable and deserving of every opportunity.”
Her advice for young women striving toward their goals is heartfelt.
“Start where you are. Even a small step — a short course or an entry-level job — can lead to greater opportunities. Stay patient. Your journey is your own, and your time will come. You are enough. Keep believing in yourself.”
Reflecting on her path, she added: “Life isn’t about rushing to the finish line. It’s about embracing the moments that shape you. Balance ambition with gratitude and never forget your worth. You’re phenomenal—never let anyone tell you otherwise.”
Chefanices Williams stands as a beacon of hope to young Bermudians. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with hard work, support and an unwavering belief in yourself, the sky truly is the limit.
