Ana Therese Mahmud-Zetina

Ana Therese Mahmud-Zetina began her remarkable journey in public service on July 13, 1989, when she joined the Government of Belize as a Secretary III. From the very beginning, Ana showed a natural gift for organization, calm under pressure, and a quiet strength that would come to define her career. Her early days were filled with the steady rhythm of typing, answering phones, greeting the public, and keeping daily operations running smoothly. She handled tasks with grace and precision.
As the years passed, Ana’s role grew, and so did her reputation. She climbed the ranks with quiet determination, eventually earning the respected title of Senior Secretary. Her journey was not marked by shortcuts or grand gestures, but by consistent dedication, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to doing things right. She became known not just for her skills, but for her spirit, character, diligence and dependability.
Ana’s career took her through various departments and ministries, where she worked alongside high-ranking officials and navigated complex responsibilities with ease. Her most cherished chapter was her time at the Office of the Prime Minister. There, her discretion and reliability earned her the trust of leaders who came to rely on her deep institutional knowledge and calm leadership. She was more than a secretary; she was a confidante, a steady hand, and often the calm in the storm.
One of Ana’s most admired qualities was her ability to handle difficult situations with empathy and poise. Whether facing an upset customer or a tense office moment, Ana brought patience and understanding, never losing her professionalism. Her approach became a model for younger staff, and her presence brought a sense of peace to any room she entered.
Her office was a place where things got done, where people felt heard, and where respect was quietly cultivated. Ana took time to mentor new staff, sharing her wisdom and instilling a culture of diligence and kindness that lingered long after they moved on.
As a Senior Secretary, Ana became the keeper of process and memory. She was the one people turned to during transitions, the one who met deadlines without fuss, and the one who could be counted on no matter the circumstance. Her dependability was legendary, her work ethic unmatched.
Now, as Ana steps into retirement, she leaves behind more than just a career. She leaves a benchmark for greatness in the field. Her presence brought stability, her words offered reassurance, and her work left a lasting mark on those who had the privilege to work alongside her. Her retirement is not a farewell, but a celebration of a life devoted to public service, carried out with quiet excellence every single day.
Ana Therese Mahmud-Zetina’s story reminds us that true impact isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s found in the steady voice at the front desk, the late-night email answered without complaint, and the wisdom shared without seeking credit. For 35 years, Ana did all this and more. She leaves behind not just memories, but a standard. A standard of service, civility, and strength.