Garda Emmanuel Samuel
An Garda Síochána
Emmanuel Tacima Samuel came to Ireland 18 years ago from South Sudan, and now works as a Garda in Wicklow. He tells us exactly what he likes about his job.
When he was 12, Emmanuel Tacima Samuel — originally from South Sudan — came to Ireland to start a new life with his family in Kilkenny. Now, 18 years later, he’s about to finish his probation as a Garda in the town of Wicklow.
“I’ve always enjoyed volunteering with local communities, groups and organisations,” he says. “So, this career seemed like the perfect opportunity to work with all kinds of different people. It also makes me feel as though I’m giving something back to Ireland.” After completing the application, testing and interview process, he began his training in 2023 at Carlow Garda Station.
Varied roles for people with different skill sets
For Garda Samuel, the best part of the job is being able to help people in need. “When I was young, I remember my family needing help — and how we felt when that help came,” he says. “So, I find it fulfilling to help someone resolve a situation and see the relief they feel. Also, no two days are the same. I can be in the office completing paperwork or dealing with phone calls, or I’ll be out on patrol or dealing with incidents and emergencies. I enjoy that balance.”
It also makes me feel as though I’m giving something back to Ireland
To anyone thinking of becoming a Garda, he has this advice. “I’d definitely recommend it,” he says. “There are so many different departments, too, including the Special Detective Unit, units that investigate scams and fraud and the Protective Services Unit. You can always find the area that best suits your skill set and personal qualities.”
