Denzel Southwell, a 27-year-old native of Sandvoort in Berbice, Guyana, has made history by becoming the first Guyanese Auxillary Assistant Driller on an offshore drillship.
According to El Dorado Offshore which made the announcement today, his achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also signifies an important local content advancement for Guyana’s burgeoning oil industry.
Southwell’s journey to this groundbreaking accomplishment began with humble roots and a determination to defy expectations. Raised in Sandvoort, Berbice, he received his education at local institutions, Sandvoort Primary and Tutorial Secondary, before pursuing technical studies at the New Amsterdam Technical Institute. Despite starting his career as a clerk at the New Amsterdam municipality, Southwell’s ambition and drive led him to seek a more challenging and dynamic path.
In January 2021, Southwell embarked on a transformative journey when he joined the Noble Tom Madden drillship. Initially starting as a Roustabout, his exceptional skills and work ethic quickly earned him recognition, leading to successive promotions within the Operations Management Development Program (OMDP). His progression through various roles culminated in his appointment as an Auxillary Assistant Driller, a role that places him at the forefront of Guyana’s rapidly expanding oil sector.
However, Southwell’s path to success was not without its challenges. Separation from family, particularly his newborn daughter, presented a significant hurdle, alongside the daunting task of adapting to a new industry and overcoming language barriers. Yet, fueled by a relentless determination and guided by his parents’ wisdom – “Your attitude determines your altitude” – Southwell persevered, turning obstacles into stepping stones toward his goal.
Reflecting on his historic achievement, Southwell emphasized its broader significance, stating, “Being the first Guyanese to be a Driller shows that we as Guyanese can do anything as long as we work hard and be willing to be dedicated.” He hopes his success serves as an inspiration to aspiring Guyanese professionals, highlighting the transformative potential of local talent within the nation’s evolving oil and gas landscape.
