THIS graduation season at the University of Guyana has a special cohort of students whose stories inspire resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of education.
Among them are the first in their families to earn a university degree—a testament not only to their personal dedication but to the unwavering support from their families and communities.
These graduates are creating new paths, shaping futures, and breaking down generational barriers, driven by the dream of a brighter tomorrow.

Areana Jainandan: Defying the Odds to Educate Future Generations

For Areana Jainandan, 24, earning a Bachelor of Education (Primary Education) represents both personal achievement and family pride. A teacher at Vreed-en-Hoop Primary, Areana’s journey was marked by late nights, countless assignments, and moments of self-doubt. Reflecting on her time at UG, she shares, “There were moments when the number of assignments and deadlines felt overwhelming, and I considered quitting. However, I’m glad I didn’t. I’ve reached the finish line and am now a graduate teacher.”
From high school to teachers’ training college, and then directly to UG without a break, Areana has always chased her educational dreams. She attributes her resilience to her family, especially her mother, who instilled in her the value of hard work and education despite limited financial resources. Looking ahead, Areana is committed to advancing her career, aiming to set an example for her younger sister and future generations.

Akeem Stoby: Paving a Legacy of Achievement

Akeem Stoby, a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy graduate, is paving the way for his younger siblings and community. His story is one of overcoming financial constraints, including initially lacking a laptop and relying on family support to get through university. “When I started university, I was unemployed… my eldest sibling sent a computer, which helped me a lot,” he recalls.
Akeem has taken on various leadership roles, including treasurer of the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS) and faculty representative, experiences that helped him grow. As he eyes a future as a Chartered Accountant, Akeem’s mission is clear: “I want to be that person that when a little child looks up at me, he/she will say, ‘I want to be like Akeem.’”

O’statia Simon: A Voice for Her Village and Heritage
O’statia Simon, 20, hailing from St. Cuthbert’s Mission/Pakuri, is the first in her family to earn a degree, with a BSc in Public Management. Recently crowned Miss Region #4 Indigenous Heritage Queen, O’statia’s journey was not without hardship. The distance from her family and village was often challenging, but she stayed the course. “I’d call home crying, longing to return to my village,” she says, “but I never backed down. My biggest lesson was trusting the process.”
O’statia attributes her success to her parents, whose sacrifices shaped her drive. Now, she is determined to give back to her community, standing as a symbol of hope and resilience. “If you have a dream, it was placed there for a reason. Take control of it,” she encourages.

Alliah Simon: Championing Conservation and Indigenous Advocacy
Alliah Simon, a proud Lokono hiaro from Pakuri Village, is set to graduate with a Bachelor degree in Biology. Driven by a passion for conservation and advocacy, Alliah’s impact has extended beyond academics. As President of the University of Guyana Biology Club and co-founder of the Indigenous Students Society, she has worked tirelessly to build a supportive space for Indigenous students and to preserve Indigenous knowledge.
Inspired by her mother’s sacrifices, Alliah has blazed a trail for her siblings, two of whom are now first-year students at UG. With plans to pursue further studies in conservation, Alliah is committed to championing environmental preservation and empowering others. “The legacy I want to leave is one of empowerment—especially for women, Indigenous women, and those from marginalised backgrounds,” she says.

Aaliyah Baker: Persevering through Setbacks to Inspire Future STEM Leaders
Aaliyah Baker’s journey to a Bachelor degree in Chemistry is one of grit and determination. As the first in her family to achieve a university education, Aaliyah hopes to break down barriers for her younger cousins, brother, and sister. “I am blazing the path for my cousins, my brother and sister. It kind of feels like pressure, but it means the world to me,” she says.
Despite academic setbacks and the challenges of adjusting to university life, Aaliyah’s drive to succeed has remained steadfast. She credits her family’s support, particularly her mother, who works two jobs, as her motivation. With dreams of a Master Degree in Biochemistry and a career in the oil and gas industry, Aaliyah also aspires to mentor young students in STEM. Her advice? “Delay is never denial. Keep pushing forward. Make yourself proud, and never give up.”
These graduates stand as pillars of hope and achievement, proving that with determination and a strong support system, dreams can indeed become reality. As UG prepares for its graduation ceremonies from November 7-9 at Turkeyen and on November 16 at Berbice, the public is invited to join in celebrating the success of these inspiring students. Ceremonies will be live-streamed on the University’s Facebook page and UG Broadcasting Service.