‘People can create their own destiny’

Union leader Kevin Grant represents mostly white-collar Government workers across the island as president of the BPSU.

And he will be front and centre over the forseeable future as Government tries to cut the cost of running the island – while he tries to protect jobs and services from cuts.

But the keen schoolboy athlete – who wishes he’d spent more time in the library and less on the sports field – has a very human side as well.

His answers reveal he’s still an admirer of teamwork – and enjoys his job as a team leader in the island’s planning department.

And the Bob Marley fan, who may also harbour a sneaking regard from Frank Sinatra, has a keen work ethic, instilled in him by father Stanley, who is listed as his number one hero.

Mr Grant, a married father of one young son and still lives in Pembroke, where he was brought up, admits he has a few personal ambitions — but that he’d most like to see the island back on track economically so it can tackle social issues.

Raymond Hainey takes an inside look at the BPSU leader.

Your earliest memory? 

Playing hide and seek in the tall cane grass up on Parker’s Hill, where I used to live as a child  — it’s the area right across from MediaHouse on ElliottStreet, where there was a huge hill at one point in time.

What were you like in school? 

Athletic — I probably concentrated on playing football and cricket a bit too much in my earlier years of academia. It wasn’t until later on that I had no other choice but to make more of an effort to balance sports with my academics.

Who is your hero/heroine? 

My father — Stanley Arthur Grant.

Which trait do you dislike the most? 

Stereotyping.

Which trait do you most value in others? 

Teamwork – those willing to work together for a common cause.

When did you last laugh out loud?

With my staff at the planning department — I supervise a dedicated and committed crew that’s fun to work with.”

Do you believe in fate? 

Yes, however I do believe that individuals, if given a fair chance, have the ability to set or create their own destiny.

Most embarrassing moment? 

I’ve had a few, that’s for sure.

Property aside, what’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought? 

Do you buy into marriage?

Your ultimate ambition?

I have a few personal ambitions. However, I’d like to see this country recover economically so that we can address issues like unemployment, education, crime and sports in Bermuda.

Your most unappealing habit? 

I can’t chew gum. I just forget it’s there.

Describe yourself in three words. 

Committed, reliable, empathetic.

Best party you’ve ever been too? 

The one that really sticks out is the one that my mom put together for me when I turned 11 years old. I had all my classmates from Prospect Primary there, friends and cousins. It was the talk of the neighbourhood I’ll never forget it.”

Anyone you’d like to say sorry to? 

I’ve already apologised to those.

Biggest disappointment? 

Not taking advantage of educational opportunities earlier.

Biggest regret? 

I’ve had a few. But then again too few to mention.”

Closest you’ve ever come to death? 

An accident when I was 13 — I fell down a 20ft hole on my pushbike.

Your desert island song? 

Three Little Birds – Bob Marley. Don’t worry about a thing.

If you had a time machine, where would you go? 

Back in time — and invest in computer technology.

Best advice you’ve ever taken? 

I have learned from my father to never give up.

Most treasured possession? 

Family.

Most important lesson life has taught you?

Do not look for praise — work hard at what you believe in.