Retiring from the T&T Coast Guard/Defence Force in 2011 after almost 30 years, visions of relaxing and taking it easy with his family were just a dream for Lieutenant Commander Garvin Heerah.
Called to national duty, he has assumed positions in various arms of the country’s national security landscape as it is the nature of military personnel not to shirk such challenges, especially as they relate to maintaining law and order.
Today, Heerah holds the position of executive director of the National Operations Centre (NOC).
Commander Heerah’s task of steering the inter-agency framework of the NOC, along with his team of dedicated specialists, is what consumes him, as the centre is being positioned to optimize homeland security solutions for T&T and by extension the region.
The modern concept of Safe City Operations for T&T is also high on the agenda, with T&T poised to benefit from the establishment and effective functioning of the National Operations Centre.
As the executive director of the NOC, Heerah has re-emphasized the need for the co-ordination and support of all agencies by optimizing resources, planning and executing operations, and by allowing the agencies to maintain lead and command. This approach has shown the improved capabilities of national security and enhanced operation co-ordination from one focal point.
In spite of his busy schedule, Heerah also lectures on the MBA programme at School of Accounting and Management (SAM). He is a module leader and member of the board of governors for Anglia Ruskin University, UK.
Where were you born and where did you grow up?
I was born and grew up in Port-of-Spain, Clarence Street, St James, to be exact.
At what schools/institutions did you receive your education (including primary school)?
I attended Woodbrook Presbyterian School, Queen’s Royal College, UWI and Anglia Ruskin University, UK.
What are the goals you, your team and your bosses have for the relatively newly established National Operations Centre (NOC)?
Our...the team’s one goal is to restore Trinidad and Tobago once more to a safe and secured country by working with all agencies of law enforcement establishments using a holistic approach. Crime is everyone’s business, and we must effect sustainable social change so that we do not ever revert to crime and criminality. All hands on deck, as we’d say on the high seas from my coast guard days. The proverbial ‘chain being as strong as its weakest link’ is at stake here as we follow international best practices and models pertaining to the development of ‘Safe City’ status. Tactics must be revisited that aren’t working. We must also partner with our regional and international partners in the fight against gangs, narco, human trafficking and white collar crime.
Tell us a bit about your life before assuming your current position?
I devoted a significant part of my life to the military. Serving with the Colours in the TTCG for 28 long hard years. I worked at the Air Wing Division, CG headquarters, National Helicopters, TTDF HQ and the Sautt.
During my hard-fought career, I saw the necessity for both professional and personal development and with passion and commitment, embarked on a number of programmes to enhance my development, both professionally and personally. Most of these programmes I sacrificed and paid for myself. I saw it necessary to become marketable and to strive for excellence in the highly competitive environment of the military.
What are some of your achievements prior to assuming your current position as the executive director of the National Operations Centre?
Accomplishing my tasks.
Achieving my objectives. Completing my MBA. From a personal standpoint, I and my wife have been able to establish a marriage ministry that works with married couples, and conduct seminars and workshops to this effect. The name—You are My Beloved Ministry.
With Carnival around the corner, are there any special plans to be put in place to assist with minimising criminal activities?
There is a robust security plan in place to ensure safety and security for all citizens for the Carnival period. One must note that the lead on this initiative is the TTPS, and the Commissioner of Police has appointed a gold commander to oversee all such activities. The NOC will support all such initiatives and maximize on the inter-agency co-ordination for all operations. There will be an intensified effort from all law enforcement agencies with air, land and maritime patrols, and a higher visibility of law enforcement officers and a greater interaction between National Security and the citizenry. It is the intent of the Minister of National Security to not only present safety and security by presence and visibility but to communicate this approach to all, by reassuring T&T that the Ministry of National Security is out there working around the clock to keep T&T safe during the Carnival period.
Who has been the biggest influence on your life and how eg, in you becoming a member of the Defence Force?
My father, deceased now, was a pillar and a driving force behind me. He was an influence then and is an influence now. His wisdom is everlasting.
Tell us about your inspiration to do the type of work you do.
My inspiration first and foremost comes from My Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I have trusted my experience and training to remain calm in crisis situations, be always professional, and rely on my integrity, honesty and humility to be the spinal cord of my character and stability.
Which of your accomplishments/work(s) do you rate as the most satisfying and memorable?
My mission as the Strategic Air Liaison Officer for the Summit of Americas held here in Trinidad and Tobago. That task was monumental, involved critical decision making and the interface with key international stakeholders all in a planning and coordination platform, including The White House Command.
What advice would you give to the young people of T&T?
You are the future of this beloved nation. Your identity must reflect your country, you are a positive influence to society, therefore do not adopt an approach to life that will destroy yourselves and your country. The time to change your position is now.
What goals and or ambitions do you still have?
To one day be a motivational speaker. I have already started to push towards this, especially when I conduct my Leadership and Training workshops.
What are the defining “aha” moments in your life so far?
Seeing my children grow up before my eyes and experiencing the comfort and satisfaction of a healthy family life. My mantra is: family first...when all is done and removed, they are all we have!
If you could interview anyone from your life living or dead, but not a celebrity, who would it be and why?
CLR James. I was moved by the book Beyond the Boundary. I was amazed at his philosophy and his deep-rooted love for the game of cricket, but more so how he analyzed the game against the backdrop of politics and social issues. His use of the English language and the challenges in a UK dominated atmosphere/world was inspiring to me as a youngster growing up and achieving my education in the hallowed halls of Queen’s Royal College.
Who was your hero growing up and why?
My father. He inspired me and drove me hard to achieve my best. He was a simple man, a taxi driver by trade, but he was a philosopher on life and a lover of the game of cricket. He was quite good too, in his days, and I strived to follow in his footsteps. I remember his words now as I sit back in my professional arena, “‘No man is bigger than the game, keep focused, occupy the crease and the runs will come…’ ”
What motto/credo do you live by, your recipe for success?
Phillipians 4:13—“I can do all things through Jesus Christ, who strengthens me.”
What is an interesting facet of your personality that most people do not know about?
I am a stand-up comedian. (Laughing out loudly, of course).
What is the best compliment you have ever received?
You have a strong family bond. Yours is a model family.
Describe yourself in two words one beginning with G, the other with H, your initials.
God-fearing and Humble.