Dr. Candice Dookree, a 30-year-old scholar from Trinidad and Tobago, has recently achieved a significant milestone by earning her doctorate in geoinformatics from the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine. Her groundbreaking research focuses on the spatio-temporal dynamics of urban growth in San Fernando, utilizing advanced technologies such as satellite remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and logistic regression. This statistical technique allows for the prediction of urban expansion based on factors like distance to roads, population density, and elevation. Her findings highlight the critical role of infrastructure decisions in shaping urban development and environmental sustainability, offering valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Born and raised in Preysal, Dookree’s journey to academic excellence was fueled by a childhood filled with curiosity and exploration. Initially aspiring to study civil engineering, she found her passion in geomatics engineering, a field she initially knew little about. Her doctoral journey, though challenging, was marked by resilience and the unwavering support of her family, friends, and mentors. As a woman in a male-dominated field, Dookree is committed to inspiring more young women to pursue careers in science and technology. Currently working with the Ministry of Finance’s Valuation Division, she integrates geospatial technologies into property valuation processes, modernizing data collection and analysis. Her vision for the future includes expanding her research into smart-city development and AI-driven geospatial analytics, while also contributing to academia as a lecturer. Dookree’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the transformative potential of geospatial science in addressing the unique challenges faced by Caribbean nations.