Being able to help those in need and make a positive impact on the lives of all you touch is a powerful gift. Tamana Safraj, at just 28 years of age, has made a name for herself in this area as the first Psychologist in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

In an interview with the Sunday Chronicle, Safraj revealed that she studied in this field for approximately four-and-a-half years; she has always been curious about psychology, and knew of people who just needed someone to talk to.

Safraj said, “My studies started from a road of some hardship with my own life. At the time that I started studying, I was going through a lot.”
Throughout her years of studying, Safraj managed to be the owner of TT Online Shopping, and, more importantly, a mother to her son.

Despite the circumstances, Safraj pursued studies through the American University of Peace Studies, where she completed her Diploma studies in December 2020, and graduated as the valedictorian that year.
She also pursued her degree in Psychology, which she completed in December 2022, and graduated in February 2023. She also managed to cop the title of Most Congenial Student for her degree.

Although it has only been three months since she began to work at the Health Centre in Bartica, where she practises, the young woman is proud and determined to make the best of her position as a Psychologist in her hometown.

It was highlighted that one of the major challenges in the field of psychology pertains to confidentiality. “Somebody has to trust you before they can come and disclose certain information to you,” she said, adding: “I know that I am mandated to be a confidential person, but you know, from the outside, it takes courage and trust for persons to come in.”

Prior to Safraj’s tenure, a psychiatrist would visit the facility sometimes.
“When people realise that though there may be a stigma attached to mental illness, we want to create an environment where they’re comfortable in disclosing some information that, of course, may be personal, some may be an exploration of thought, and with my presence there, little by little we can help to combat that stigma attached to mental health challenges and issues,” she said.

One of her greatest strengths, she said, is the ability to listen.
“Sometimes that’s all a person needs; for a person to listen to them. That helps them to ease the burden that they are carrying,” the young psychologist said.
In closing, she sought to encourage people not to give up on themselves or their dreams, and to grab every opportunity to further educate themselves. (Faith Greene)