AT just 22 years old, Raywattie “Sophie” Deonarine of Spring Garden Region Two has already lived several inspiring chapters, each one built on perseverance, faith and a quiet determination to succeed.

Sophie’s journey began at high school, where she graduated with 11 subjects, nine Grade Ones and two Grade Twos. Like many young people, she initially dreamed of a traditional career.

Her goal was simple: to work in an air-conditioned office at a financial institution. But when she finally got a taste of that environment, she realised that wasn’t where her heart belonged.

Instead of giving up, Sophie decided to follow her instincts. With little experience but a lot of courage, she started her own small printing business, Sophie’s Printing World.

Business was slow at first, and there were moments of doubt, but she never let that stop her. She believed that every challenge was an opportunity to learn.

One day, she came across a vacancy at Guyana Times. Journalism had always sparked her interest, so she applied and in 2021, her life changed forever when she got the call that began her career as a freelance journalist.

Even while writing stories, Sophie’s desire to make a deeper impact grew. She wanted to inspire others, especially young minds.

In 2022, she applied to the Teaching Service Commission and was appointed a teacher at Aurora Secondary School. Soon after, she enrolled at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), a decision that would shape her future.

Balancing journalism, teaching, and studies was far from easy. Sophie would leave Aurora after a full day of teaching and travel to the Anna Regina CPCE campus for evening classes, often returning home late at night. “There were assignments, exams, and many challenges,” she recalled, “but I kept reminding myself why I started.”

Two years later, in November 2024, Sophie stood on the CPCE graduation stage, nervous yet hopeful. When her name was announced, with the word Distinction beside it, she could hardly believe it. “That was the moment I realised that hard work truly pays off,” she said, smiling.

Her story didn’t stop there. During her one-year break from studies, Sophie expanded her business, adding handmade ribbon bouquets for special occasions. What began as a side hobby blossomed into another successful venture.

In September 2025, Sophie’s passion for learning led her to new heights.

She was accepted into the University of Guyana to pursue a degree in Mathematics, while also studying Communication and Mass Media at Amity University of California.

Then, in a moment that took her completely by surprise, Sophie was informed that she had been selected as Region Two’s Best Graduating Teacher for Academics.

“When I received the message from Miss Humel, I was shocked,” she said. “But deep down, I felt proud. I told myself, ‘Sophie, you wanted it—you got it.’”

Sophie credits her success to the people who supported her unconditionally, her mother, Lilwantie Jaigobin, her partner, Devindra Persaud, her lecturers and her aunt, Reema, who constantly encouraged her to push forward.

“I’m grateful to everyone who believed in me, even when I doubted myself,” she said.

Reflecting on her journey, Sophie shared a message of hope for others

“Never give up. Even if you didn’t shine in nursery, primary, or secondary school, once you put your mind to something, you can achieve it. I wanted to top my region at CPCE—and I did.”

Miss Sophie stands as a shining example of what persistence, passion and self-belief can accomplish.

From a young girl with big dreams to a teacher, journalist, entrepreneur, and top academic achiever, her story reminds us of all that success isn’t about where you start, but how determined you are to keep going.