At Pathfinders, we strive to spotlight changemakers who embody the values of Vision, Passion, Action, Tenacity, Humility, and Impact. In this feature, we delve into the remarkable story of Valrie Grant, a geospatial scientist, entrepreneur, and mentor, whose work empowers communities and bridges digital divides across the Caribbean and beyond.
"Geography should not dictate destiny. I’m passionate about bridging the digital divide, empowering underserved communities, and fostering youth development to create meaningful change through technology."
Vision: Pioneering Sustainable Development
For Valrie Grant, the vision is clear: a digitally inclusive world where geography does not dictate destiny. As the founder of GeoTechVision and Jamaica Flying Labs, Valrie is committed to using geospatial technologies to drive sustainable development. Her work spans disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, and youth empowerment, always with a focus on creating fit-for-purpose solutions that address the unique needs of underserved communities.
“I want to help lead the charge for a digital Caribbean that’s empowered to navigate its own solutions” Valrie explains. This vision extends to her leadership roles, including as Vice Chair of the United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM) Private Sector Network, where she bridges the gap between governments and the private sector to tackle global challenges collaboratively.
Passion: Empowering Others Through Technology
Valrie’s passion is rooted in her upbringing in a rural farming community in Jamaica, where she witnessed firsthand how limited resources can hinder opportunities. “I’ve always believed that geography should not dictate destiny” she shares. This belief fuels her dedication to bridging the digital divide and fostering youth development, particularly for women entrepreneurs.
“Mentorship is one of my greatest joys” Valrie says, reflecting on her efforts to guide young professionals in geospatial technologies. Through initiatives like the GIS in Schools Education Program and Jamaica Flying Labs, she’s helped countless individuals discover new possibilities, many of whom have gone on to thrive as GIS managers and Youth Mappers ambassadors.
Action: Building Pathways for Change
From founding GeoTechVision in 2008 to spearheading the development of Jamaica Flying Labs, Valrie’s actions demonstrate her relentless commitment to impactful change. GeoTechVision was one of the first woman-owned geospatial companies in the Caribbean, breaking new ground in an industry often misunderstood at the time.
Under her leadership, these organizations have introduced innovative programs, such as drone training for disaster resilience and STEM initiatives for youth. “We focus on localization—solutions that are contextually relevant and empowering for the communities they serve” Valrie emphasizes.
Tenacity: Rising Above Challenges
Valrie’s journey has been far from easy. From the challenges of educating clients on emerging technologies to navigating a major contract termination that impacted her operations, she’s faced numerous obstacles with unyielding resolve.
“Entrepreneurship demands persistence,” she notes. “It’s about staying true to your values and fighting for what’s right, even when the path is difficult.” Her resilience is a testament to the power of determination and ethical business practices.
Humility: Learning and Growing Together
Despite her many achievements, Valrie remains grounded and deeply grateful for the support of her team, family, and mentors. “Success is not an individual achievement; it truly takes a village” she reflects. Her journey has taught her the importance of listening to diverse perspectives, pivoting when necessary, and embracing life’s unexpected challenges as opportunities for growth.
Impact: Inspiring Future Generations
Valrie’s impact resonates far and wide. Her mentorship programs have empowered a new generation of geospatial professionals, while her advocacy for ethical and sustainable practices influences global dialogues. For Valrie, the ultimate measure of success is the ripple effect of her work—creating opportunities for others to thrive and contribute to their communities.
Final Thought: A Call to Action
As a mentor, leader, and innovator, Valrie Grant embodies what it means to be a Pathfinder for good. Her advice to aspiring changemakers is simple yet profound: “Do it afraid. There will never be a perfect moment. Lean in, prepare, and recognize that success is a marathon, not a sprint.”
Contact
To learn more about Valrie’s journey and connect with her work, check out her podcast, Mapping the Conversations, available on Spotify and LinkedIn. Join the movement to amplify the stories of everyday heroes and inspire meaningful action.
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