RIANA Ashesha Toney, 16, of Anna Regina Multilateral School (ARMS) on Wednesday cried tears of joy when she received the news she topped Guyana at the recent Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

Toney, the daughter of businessman, Ricky Toney, secured 19 grade ones at the regional examinations. Speaking with Guyana Chronicle, the young lady said she did not expect to top the country and praised the Almighty for his abundant blessings.

Leading up to the examinations, Toney said she was very nervous and was anxiously awaiting the results of the examinations. She was overjoyed when she learnt from the media that she exceeded her own expectations.

Toney, a science stream student, told this publication that she loves participating in science fairs and school debating competitions.

“I was very shocked, I couldn’t believe it but I thank God, my parents and my school for the foundation,” the aspiring microbiologist said.
She is advising students to pay keen attention to their School Based Assessment (SBA) and credited extra lessons to her success.

Her parents, who own Toney Elite Styles, closed their business early on Wednesday to go home and spend time with their daughter.

Shavava Toney, Riana’s mother, said she spent sleepless nights with her daughter, preparing her for the examinations. The mother said she admired her daughter’s potentials and noted that she was always a brilliant child.

The parents thanked all the teachers of the Anna Regina Multilateral School for their role in Toney’s success. When asked what will be the future of their daughter, they said most likely she will be attending university. Headmaster of Anna Regina Multilateral School, Laljeet Ruplall, was very excited about the school’s performance. He said he is happy that ARMS produced the national top student and commented that Toney was always a brilliant, ardent and obedient child.