AT 99 years old, Gowniah “Roselyn” Ramsukh of Glacier’s Lust, Mahaicony, Berbice, embodies a lifetime of perseverance, hard work, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Her remarkable journey recently caught the attention of Minister within the Ministry of Local Government, Anand Persaud, who visited her home to present a grocery hamper in recognition of her contributions and to celebrate her inspiring life.

During the visit, Minister Persaud was struck by Roselyn’s vibrant spirit and cheerful demeanour, describing her as a delightful conversationalist whose strength and determination have left an indelible mark on those around her. “Even though she has reached 99 years, she remains the heart of her family—deeply loved and cherished,” Minister Persaud noted.

Roselyn’s story is one of resilience. Married at just 19, she and her husband built a life together, working on their coconut farm while raising 12 children. When she was widowed, she refused to let hardship define her family’s future. Determined that her children would receive an education, she worked tirelessly—planting rice, tending to cows, making coconut oil, grinding coffee, and sewing clothes—all to provide for her family.

Her entrepreneurial spirit shone through as she sold bananas, tomatoes, bora, and okra in Georgetown, walking long distances to ensure her goods reached the market. She also used her sewing and embroidery skills to create beautiful window curtains and headwear, adding elegance to her home and those of others.
Beyond her work ethic, Roselyn is a profoundly spiritual individual. She reads in Hindi and has spent her evenings immersed in the Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayan, finding solace and strength in their teachings.
Despite only completing primary school due to financial constraints, her love for learning never faded. Even at 99, she remains eager to acquire knowledge, a quality that Minister Persaud found particularly admirable. “She possesses a profound enthusiasm for reading and self-improvement,” he shared.

Roselyn’s active lifestyle and disciplined habits have also played a role in her long and healthy life. Remarkably, she has no history of diabetes or cardiovascular issues, a testament to the strength and vigour she has maintained over the years. Though she was once a vegetarian, doctors advised her to incorporate meat into her diet for additional protein, a change she accepted with the same practicality that has defined her life.

Reflecting on Roselyn’s journey, Minister Persaud encouraged young people to seek wisdom from the elders in their communities and recognise the privileges they enjoy in modern society. “Her life serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the power of resilience, hard work and love for family,” he said.
While the minister’s visit was an opportunity to honour Roselyn’s contributions, he admitted that he walked away with a greater appreciation for her unwavering determination and commitment to her family’s well-being—a legacy that will endure for generations to come.