The Faculty of Social Sciences would like to extend its congratulations to Alicia Pauline Lalite-Ettienne. She is a visually impaired educator, disability advocate, and doctoral candidate who was recently appointed as an Independent Senator in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the disabled community and reflects her longstanding commitment to inclusion, education, and national development.
Alicia is currently pursuing a PhD in Business Administration with a specialization in Human Resource Management at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine (The UWI). Her doctoral research explores employer and employee perspectives on persons with disabilities in the workplace, contributing valuable insight into barriers, perceptions, and inclusive practices within organizational settings.
Since 2015, she has served as a part-time lecturer in the Department of Management Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences at The UWI. In this role, she has inspired countless students by sharing not only academic knowledge but also lived experience. Her presence in the classroom challenges stereotypes and encourages critical thinking around equity and leadership.
Alicia is a certified assistive technology consultant and computer instructor. She pioneered one of Trinidad and Tobago’s first computer training programmes for blind and low-vision persons, equipping over 200 individuals with digital literacy skills using tools such as JAWS, Magic, and OpenBook. Her work has been instrumental in promoting greater independence and opportunity for persons with disabilities.
As she takes on the mantle of Independent Senator, Alicia Pauline Lalite-Ettienne brings with her a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and a resolute commitment to creating a more inclusive society for all.