I am Cedrick Esther, originally from Praslin Island. I completed my Bachelor of Secondary Education, specialising in History, at the University of Seychelles in 2016. Following my graduation, I began my professional journey as a Secondary History Teacher with the Ministry of Education. Shortly thereafter, in 2017, I joined the Seychelles Police Force as a Police Sergeant, where I was appointed as a Lecturer and Instructor at the Seychelles Police Academy.
During my tenure at the Police Academy, I was privileged to hold several leadership positions, including Deputy Course Director and Course Director. Alongside my professional commitments, I pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with the University of the West of Scotland through the University of Seychelles, which I successfully completed in 2019.
That same year, I was promoted to the rank of Sub-Inspector of Police and subsequently posted to General Duties. In 2020, I was awarded the opportunity to further my studies in New Zealand, where I completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Political Science and a Master of International Relations and Security Studies at the University of Waikato, graduating at the top of my class. Upon returning to Seychelles, I was assigned to La Digue Island as the Deputy Station Commander and later appointed Station Commander for Praslin.
As Station Commander, my key responsibilities included:
- Overseeing the daily operational management of the police station.
- Ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of the community through effective policing strategies.
- Leading, mentoring, and developing officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Since early 2023, I have been based in New Zealand, where I currently work in a college as a secondary educator. I also serve as a consultant for the New Zealand Police and a part-time lecturer at the University of Waikato, specialising in security and international relations. It has been a journey of growth, learning, and fulfilment.
My education at the University of Seychelles played a pivotal role in shaping both my professional and personal development. The Bachelor of Secondary Education programme, particularly the History component, was well-structured and intellectually rigorous. It equipped me with strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills that proved invaluable when I pursued my Master of International Relations. In fact, much of the theoretical and historical foundation required for postgraduate studies had already been covered in my undergraduate degree, which made the transition both smooth and rewarding.
To current and prospective students at the University of Seychelles, I offer this advice: embrace every opportunity to learn, remain humble no matter how far you go, and treat every person with respect and kindness. Success is not merely about personal achievement, but
about the positive impact you leave on others.
A quote that continues to inspire me comes from Martin Luther King Jr. (1968): “Cowardice asks the question, is it safe? Expediency asks the question, is it politic? But conscience asks the question, is it right? And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but one must take it because conscience tells one it is right.”
In my career, I have learnt that in the workplace, you should never be afraid to speak out when something is wrong. You may face challenges or even punishment for standing by your principles but doing what is right always opens another door.
After a long day, I enjoy relaxing with my family by watching a good movie and sharing a hearty meal. we’re a family that takes food very seriously! During weekends, we often take road trips together, whether it’s to explore another city or simply to enjoy the beautiful countryside. These moments keep me grounded and remind me of what truly matters.