From a comment to command

Sometimes destiny doesn’t knock. Sometimes, it shows up in your notifications.

Sixteen weeks ago, 32-year-old Yanique Wilson left a comment on a post on Red Stripe’s Corporate Instagram page that read, “Best place to work. I did my work experience there in logistics for six months and loved it. I have been trying to get back there since, but no luck.”

“I didn’t think anything would come from it,” she said. “I just decided to take a chance on myself and share my experience.”

The experience commented about dates back to 2015 to 2016, when Yanique completed a six-month work experience programme in logistics at Red Stripe while pursuing her BSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the Caribbean Maritime University. The exposure shaped her goals.

“I’ve always been drawn to operations, logistics and problem-solving,” she explained. “I value structure, teamwork and accountability. I like knowing that what I do helps keep everything running smoothly.”

On October 20, 2025 she received a direct message from Nele Vanbeneden, supply chain director at Red Stripe, about vacancies in the logistics department and the opportunity to submit her résumé.

“I was excited and nervous at the same time,” Wilson said. “After searching for a job for three years, sending dozens of applications and attending multiple interviews, you start to wonder when it will be your turn. When that message came, it felt like my initiative was being recognised.”

She applied.

Today, she is team leader, Warehouse Outbound at Red Stripe and among the first women to hold the supervisory post in what has traditionally been a male-dominated area of the company’s operations.

“I’m a hardworking and motivated individual who believes in continuous improvement,” she said. “One of my career goals has always been to grow into a leadership role where I can support others, guide a team and help improve how things are done.”

Her interest in logistics started long before her degree.

“I’ve always had an interest in shipping and the maritime industry. I was fascinated with ships and the movement of cargo. That’s what led me to logistics and supply chain management as my field of study.”

When she was called in to interview for the supervisory role, she understood the weight of the moment.

“The interview was intense but motivating,” she recalled. “I saw it as a chance to demonstrate not just technical knowledge, but leadership potential. I had prepared myself for that opportunity.”

Securing the role was overwhelming in the best way.

“It honestly took me about a week to come to grips with it,” she admitted. “After being told ‘No’ so many times or not getting callbacks, this felt different. It felt earned. I believe God had a hand in it. There were many moments when I felt like giving up, but my mom, my aunt and my mentor kept encouraging me.”

In an industry often associated with heavy equipment, distribution logistics, and male leadership, her appointment reflects gradual but meaningful shifts within Jamaica’s industrial sector.

“It’s humbling,” she said. “It means everything I do represents not only myself but my gender. I want to ensure I open the door for more women to be part of this area in the future. Capability has no gender.”

As team leader for Warehouse Outbound, her days are hands-on.

“I oversee daily operations, coordinate teams, ensure targets are met and maintain safety and quality standards. A typical day includes planning, problem-solving and supporting my team. Leadership for me is about accountability.”

The moments that stand out most are simple.

“When I’m trusted to make decisions or when my team responds positively to my leadership, those are my ‘I earned this’ moments. It reminds me that I didn’t get here by chance.”

She describes the Red Stripe environment as supportive and professional.

“Stepping into leadership, I’ve felt encouraged to grow and continuously improve. There’s a strong culture of teamwork and accountability, and that aligns with who I am.”

Looking ahead, she is focused on growth and impact.

“I want to build strong, motivated teams, improve efficiency and contribute to operational excellence. I’m excited to take on greater responsibilities and continue developing as a leader.”

Her advice to women who may be unsure about applying for roles in similar spaces is direct.

“Go for it. Don’t wait until you feel ready enough. Confidence grows through action. Believe in your skills. Trust that you belong in the room.”

What started as a comment 16 weeks ago became a conversation. That conversation became an opportunity.

“I took a chance on myself,” Yanique said. “And it changed my life.”