As Daily Tribune celebrates another anniversary on 30 June, I cannot help but look back with gratitude to 2023, when I received an invitation that I never expected in my lifetime — to become one of its columnists.

For someone whose career has largely revolved around the law, public service, intellectual property and business, writing a regular newspaper column was never part of my plans. I had always admired newspaper columnists for their ability to inform, persuade, and provoke meaningful discussions. Little did I know that one day I would be given the same privilege.

I still remember accepting the invitation with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. Writing an occasional article is one thing; producing a weekly column is another. Every deadline carries with it a responsibility — not only to submit on time but also to ensure that every article contributes something worthwhile to the public discourse.

Admittedly, I have not been a perfect columnist. There were occasions when official travels, speaking engagements, and family vacations abroad made it difficult to meet my deadlines. Like many writers, I occasionally stared at a blank screen searching for the right words while racing against time. Thankfully, those missed deadlines and late submissions were the exception rather than the rule, and I was able to submit the vast majority of my columns on schedule.

What made the experience fulfilling was the freedom to write about issues close to my heart. Through this column, I have shared my thoughts on intellectual property, innovation, economic development, governance, leadership, tourism, family, and even my personal experiences.

Some articles were inspired by current events, while others came from quiet moments of reflection. Each piece allowed me to connect with readers beyond my professional circles. For this opportunity, I owe my sincere appreciation to the owners of Daily Tribune, Willie and Bettina Fernandez, who believed that I had something meaningful to contribute, and to the dedicated editorial staff who patiently guided, edited, and polished every submission. Behind every published column is an editorial team whose commitment often goes unnoticed but whose work is indispensable in maintaining the quality and credibility of a newspaper.

In an age when social media allows anyone to publish their opinions instantly, newspapers continue to occupy a unique place. They remain institutions that value accuracy, accountability and responsible journalism. To be entrusted with a space in their opinion pages is both an honor and a continuing responsibility.

As Daily Tribune marks another milestone, I extend my warmest congratulations to everyone who has worked tirelessly to make the newspaper one of the country’s respected voices. May it continue to champion truthful reporting, balanced commentary, and fearless journalism in the years ahead.

For my part, I remain deeply grateful. I never imagined that I would one day write for a major national newspaper. It has been an enriching journey of learning, reflection, and service through the written word.

Happy Anniversary, Daily Tribune. Thank you for giving me not just a column, but a voice.