Samuel is part of a legal team that advises the FSC on regulatory and civil matters. Photo: VINO

The young professional admitted he is shy. Photo: VINO

The young professional admitted he is shy.

Nelson Samuel was born in the Dominican Republic (DR), however his grandparents and parents are Virgin Islanders, which gives him deep roots in the Virgin Islands.

An embodiment of self-motivation and determination, this young professional is part of a legal team that advises the FSC on regulatory and civil matters.

In describing his functions, Samuel said “the FSC is the police for the banks, investment businesses, insurance companies and trust companies and we the legal team are tasked in ensuring that they follow the rules and guidelines.”

Additionally, drafting contracts, handling international request for information concerning regulated entities within the parameters of the Virgin Islands legislation, and representing the Financial Services Commission in the Courts and in overseas forums are among other matters Samuel has to tackle occasionally.

“It’s quite interesting because it is never a dull moment. It’s good work, very challenging because you are dealing with different aspects that involve both local and international relations. And whatever the situation I am dealing with, keeps me on my toes and on the cutting edge,” he said with a laugh.

When Samuel joined the financial watchdog agency in 2005, he admitted he was wet behind the ears and very nervous.

However, the humble gentleman acknowledged that under the tutelage of Joann William-Roberts, the now Solicitor General and Jackie Wilson, the Financial Services Commission’s Director, Legal and Enforcement Division, he was guided in the right direction. “Those ladies are awesome!” he exclaimed.

And it’s quite intriguing the way Samuel decided to switch careers.

“I was the Accountant at HLSCC for nearly 10 years, and it dawn on me that I should really pursue my passion in Law before it was too late and of course before I was too old. So after discussing it with my superiors I was granted leave to study,” the young professional recalled.

He obtained study leave from HLSCC and headed to the United Kingdom in 2002, where he received an LLB from The University of Buckingham and completed the Bar Vocational Course at Inns of Court School of Law/ City University in London. Upon his return to the VI in 2005, he was seconded to the FSC.

Samuel also revealed that he is a member of The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, which admitted him to practice Law at the Bar of England and Wales.

The young professional explained that The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple is one of the four Inns of Court in the UK that have exclusive right to call candidates to practice Law at the Bar of England and Wales. The Inns of Court are the Honourable Societies of the Inner Temple, the Middle Temple, Grey’s Inn and Lincoln’s Inn. They recruit, train and provide continuing professional development.

Apart from that, Samuel has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the Inter-American University in Puerto Rico.

“I had liked accounting from High School,” Samuel recalled with a grin, and while he majored in Accounting, his minor was in Finance.

Mr. Samuel is very proud of being a product of the Virgin Islands educational system starting his education at the Belle Vue Primary School, and then at the St. Mary’s Primary School in Virgin Gorda where he spent his childhood.

The bilingual Virgin Islander was also a clerk at Barclays Bank for two years, which he divulged was his first job after graduating from the then British Virgin Islands High School, now Elmore Stoutt High School.

On a personal front, Samuel is the father of two beautiful children and though he is not married, he foresees himself walking down the aisle with his ideal woman.

“I come from a very close multicultural family, and I guess she will have to be open- minded thoroughly,” he said with a laugh.

Briefly rehashing his childhood days Samuel said he arrived in the VI, it was bit hard at first to cope.

"Because I barely knew any English. However, after some adjustments the BVI is my home.”

The young professional further stated that his Spanish heritage comes in handy at times especially when an interpreter is needed at his place of employment and in the community.

Though satisfied with how his life has turned out, Samuel envisions in the future working pro-bono in criminal law. “I think it is something I will try to achieve.”

According to him, it’s unfortunate that young men, who show potential of changing their lifestyles, are sent to prison because they don’t have the legal representation or because the system does not provide an alternative to incarceration.

“For those who are heading down that path I want to say, stay away from crime. The glamour, glitz and gratification are just temporary because the stigma attached lasts a life time. Be honest, educate yourself and accomplish your dreams,” were Samuel’s parting words.