–prospective UG graduate from Santa Rosa reflects on his journey

GROWING up in the Indigenous community of Santa Rosa, nestled in Moruca, Region One, Brayon Hosey faced a series of obstacles that made the dream of attending university seem almost impossible.
Surrounded by limited access to education, scarce job opportunities, and the financial hardships of his family, Brayon nonetheless nurtured a vision for himself—he would one day attend the University of Guyana.
“I wrote 11 subjects and passed 10, but people told me I wouldn’t get into UG because I got a Grade 4 in Mathematics,” Brayon recalled. “I almost believed them, and it nearly cost me my chance. Then a kind woman from UG’s Admissions Office guided me, showing me that my dream was still within reach.”

Four years later, Brayon stands on the cusp of that dream, one of the proud graduands set to cross the stage in November 2024, having earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Public Management. For Brayon, this journey was not just about academics but a testament to the sacrifices and resilience of his mother, a single parent who raised nine children on a modest income from domestic work.

Despite financial strain, she made sure each of her children attended school, supported by an unwavering faith. “Whatever little my mom had, she made it work,” he said, underscoring the power of her persistence.
A key turning point came when then-Minister Valerie Garrido-Lowe visited Moruca for an outreach. After learning about Brayon’s university ambitions from his mother, she personally visited their home.
“She came that same night, and I shared my dream with her,” Brayon recalled. “The next day, she called and told me, ‘Pack your things.’ She brought me to Georgetown, where I stayed at the Hinterland Scholarship Students’ Dormitory, and I was ready to start this new chapter.”

But Brayon’s journey to higher education was not without its setbacks. Beginning his studies in 2019, he had to withdraw when his initial scholarship application wasn’t processed. Determined to succeed, he reapplied the following year, eventually securing the necessary support. Yet, the transition to university life was challenging. “The first year was lonely; I struggled to make friends,” he admitted. “But in my second year, I found other Indigenous students. We formed a group, studied together, and built a community that made all the difference.”

Brayon’s greatest source of motivation remained his mother, who kept encouraging him with frequent calls and words of reassurance. After each exam, he would send her his grades, knowing that every success, no matter how small, brought her immense pride. “When I told her I would graduate with Credit, she cried,” Brayon shared. “It was such an emotional moment for both of us… this is a huge accomplishment for my family.”
His achievement has inspired his older sister, who is now attending the University of Guyana’s Berbice Campus. “I’m the first in my family to go to university, and I told my sister we’re in a great position to achieve something no one in our family has done before,” Brayon said proudly.

As he approaches graduation, Brayon has become a source of inspiration for other Indigenous students, especially those who feel hindered by financial and logistical challenges. “Don’t let the need to relocate or finances stop you. There are scholarships, and the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs provides accommodation,” he advised, his message simple but powerful: “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t make it. I’m living proof that you can.”
Brayon now dreams of entering politics, undeterred by those who claim he’s too young. “It doesn’t matter what others think,” he said confidently. “I have goals to achieve, and I won’t let anything stand in my way.”
Brayon’s story is a beacon of hope for many. From the remote village of Santa Rosa to the University of Guyana, his journey demonstrates that with faith, determination, and community support, even the most challenging paths can lead to success. His graduation is not merely a personal victory; it is a milestone for his family, his community, and every Indigenous student daring to dream.