From Mahaicony roots to national leadership in veterinary science

WHEN Dr Johaine McAllister walks into the Veterinary Services Laboratory (VSL) at the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), she carries more than a title. As the Acting Laboratory Manager of the country’s only certified public veterinary diagnostic laboratory, she represents a new era of leadership—one defined by precision, compassion, and perseverance.

For Dr McAllister, her journey from the quiet rice-farming village of Mahaicony to national leadership in veterinary science is more than a career—it is a calling, a reflection of the values she inherited from generations of agricultural pioneers. “From my earliest memories of Mahaicony to every stage of my career, agriculture has always been part of who I am. It’s not just a profession—it’s service; it’s purpose,” she reflects.

Rising from the fields of Mahaicony
Born and raised in the sister villages of Catherine and Calcutta, Mahaicony, Dr McAllister’s roots run deep in Guyana’s agricultural heartland. She grew up surrounded by family members who lived by the rhythm of the land—rearing livestock, tending rice fields, and nurturing crops.
Her grandfather, a government agricultural professional at the Burma Rice Mill, and her parents, both trained agronomists, set an early example of discipline and service.

When her parents left for Russia to pursue their studies, young Johaine was raised by her grandmother, who instilled in her humility, respect, and resilience—traits that would later guide her through the rigours of scientific and professional life.

She recalls her time at Novar Primary School as one of cultural discovery and personal growth. As the only Afro-Guyanese student in her class, she learned empathy, adaptability, and respect for diversity—lessons that continue to shape her leadership style and professional philosophy.

The science of compassion
Dr McAllister’s fascination with animals and agriculture deepened during her formative years at the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), where her parents later worked.
Immersed in a world of researchers and livestock scientists, she came to see agriculture as a science capable of transforming lives. Before pursuing her veterinary degree, she volunteered at the Guyana Zoo, where she worked alongside local and international veterinarians.
There, her compassion for animals evolved into a mission for animal welfare and public health. Her curiosity also led her to train in cattle artificial insemination under Dr Nicholas Walrond at the National Dairy Development Programme—an experience that strengthened her technical expertise in livestock management.

Outside the laboratory, Dr McAllister explored her creative side through theatre arts, performing in stage productions—a surprising passion that enhanced her confidence and communication skills, both of which would later serve her well in leadership and teaching.

Breaking barriers in Cuba and beyond
Encouraged by her uncle, James McAllister, she pursued Veterinary Medicine in Cuba, where she excelled academically and graduated with the distinguished Título de Oro (Golden Title)—an honour reserved for outstanding students.
As one of the few women in her programme, she broke barriers through discipline, intellect, and determination.
While studying abroad, she served as a student assistant in the Department of Pathology, sharpening her diagnostic and laboratory skills.
Her experience in Cuba prepared her not only for the science of veterinary medicine but also for leadership in a field historically dominated by men.

Leadership and stewardship at GLDA
Upon returning to Guyana in 2010, Dr McAllister joined the GLDA as a Field Veterinary Officer. Her work took her from urban clinics to remote farmlands—supporting farmers, improving animal health, and safeguarding food security. Her diligence and scientific acumen earned her steady promotions, and today she serves as Acting Laboratory Manager at the VSL—the country’s only GYS 170:2021-certified public veterinary laboratory.

This certification ensures that the VSL operates within a robust quality management framework encompassing rigorous quality assurance and control measures, guaranteeing reliable and accurate test results.
By implementing best laboratory practices, the VSL delivers high-quality services to farmers, veterinary professionals, and wildlife exporters.
The laboratory plays a critical role in supporting livestock health and production across Guyana. It bolsters the livestock industry by conducting disease monitoring and control, providing diagnostic testing, and facilitating research relevant to national animal health and food safety.
“The work we do here is about more than just science,” Dr McAllister explains. “It’s about food security, livelihoods, and the well-being of our people. Every test, every diagnosis helps strengthen Guyana’s livestock industry.”
Dr McAllister takes great pride in her team and their shared commitment to excellence. She credits the dedication and professionalism of the laboratory staff as key to the VSL’s success.
Together, they continue to improve diagnostic capacity, respond to emerging animal health challenges, and contribute meaningfully to the development of Guyana’s livestock industry.
Her leadership is marked by empathy and mentorship. She acknowledges the guidance of GLDA CEO Dr Dwight Walrond, Mr Michael Welch, Dr Colbert Bowen, and Dr Meghoo in her professional growth, and credits former CEO Mr Nigel Cumberbatch for nurturing her early research interests.
Her scholarly contributions include co-authoring the study “Assessment of Coccidia in Poultry in Guyana” (Journal of Agriculture & Life Sciences, 2022) and supporting Bounty Farm Ltd. in producing local vaccines to combat Inclusion Body Hepatitis (IBH) during a national outbreak in 2023—a landmark achievement in local veterinary innovation.

A woman in science, a mother in service
Dr McAllister’s accomplishments are even more remarkable given her commitment to balancing professional leadership and family life. Married to civil engineer Eric Morris and mother to a 14-year-old son, she continues to pursue higher education while fulfilling her demanding professional duties. “Motherhood taught me discipline in a different way,” she says. “It gives you perspective—it reminds you why you work hard and who you’re working for.”

As a lecturer at the Guyana School of Agriculture, she teaches Veterinary Pathology, Parasitology, and Animal Health, nurturing the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Her students often describe her as passionate, firm, and deeply invested in their success—qualities that mirror her own academic journey.

Shaping the future of livestock development
Dr McAllister’s leadership aligns closely with Guyana’s national agenda for food security, livestock productivity, and sustainable agriculture. As a professional, she is desirous of contributing to the strengthening of diagnostic systems, advancing biosecurity, and promoting responsible antibiotic use to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
“Agriculture is not just about production,” she emphasises. “It’s about people, communities, and the legacy we build for generations to come.”
Further, with the guidance of Dr Dwight Walrond, she and her team will continue to work ardently at the VSL to expand its diagnostic and research capacity—reinforcing GLDA’s mission to promote animal health, improve productivity, and enhance public confidence in the nation’s livestock sector.

A legacy of leadership
At just 39, Dr Johaine McAllister stands among Guyana’s most accomplished female veterinarians—a symbol of resilience, intellect, and service. From her humble beginnings in Mahaicony to her current stewardship of the nation’s premier veterinary laboratory, she continues to inspire a new generation of women in science and agriculture.

Her story is not merely one of personal success but of national contribution—a reminder that true leadership grows from integrity, purpose, and the unyielding desire to serve. “I’m proud of the work we do at the Veterinary Services Laboratory,” she says. “Every effort my team makes contributes to the development of Guyana’s livestock industry. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier, and more sustainable future for agriculture.”