Elva grew up in Jamaica during the 1960s and 1970s where she received very little education.
As such, Elva did not learn to read properly until the age of 24 and despite obtaining four O Levels at night-college she spent much of her working life in a series of jobs with few prospects.
Following serious illnesses that left her unable to work, Elva decided to improve herself and enrolled with the OU for a degree in Childhood & Youth Studies, and found she was eligible for support in her studies.
“It was very ambitious, but I wanted to be brave” said Elva “and in addition to my health problems, I discovered I was dyslexic. However, thanks to the support of my tutor and specialist support provided by the OU my whole life has changed. My studies have given me confidence, self worth and a future – so thank you!”
