–cops Best Mathematics Student across all CPCE centres, Best Graduating Student for Georgetown, Best Leadership Award

IN a world where opportunities often appear once and vanish quickly, 35-year-old Mathematics teacher Kevin Narine is proving that second chances can change lives if we have the courage to take them.
Narine, a life-long resident of Cummings Lodge with a humble background, grew up in a family of six children: three boys and three girls.
Though life was challenging, his parents instilled one powerful value: the importance of education.
Narine excelled academically through primary and secondary schools, eventually securing employment at the Guyana Revenue Authority after completing his CSEC examinations.
But his early professional decisions took him on a difficult path. Seeking higher income and independence, Narine left his secure job and drifted between private institutions where he was underpaid, undervalued, and mistreated.
“I was young, restless and stubborn,” he reflected, adding: “I didn’t take advice, I thought I could do everything my way.”
During that turbulent period, Narine began offering bottom-house lessons at minimum fees. He later formed a partnership with teacher Pamela Lorrimer-Smith, and together they produced successful CSEC classes without formal training. Yet, he still struggled to accept that teaching was his calling.
A part-time job at a supermarket changed little until tragedy struck. In 2022, Narine’s father passed away, a loss that reshaped his perspective and ignited his determination.
“It broke me,” he recalled, adding: “My mother told me my father was disappointed that I had settled for less because he always believed I could touch the moon. Those words stayed with me. They woke me up.”

Motivated to rebuild his life and career, Narine wrote to the Ministry of Education in early 2023, searching for a fresh start. Opportunity came when a family friend resigned from Tutorial High School. Narine applied and was hired as a Mathematics teacher.
His first year in the classroom was transformative. His students excelled at CSEC, and he enrolled at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) to become a trained teacher.
It was there he met his wife, Devika Seodatt-Narine, who was also pursuing an Associate Degree in Mathematics. Together, they faced late-night classes, demanding coursework, and weekend assignments — a partnership built on discipline and determination.
Despite the challenges, Narine’s efforts paid off in remarkable fashion. Upon graduating from CPCE, he received three of the institution’s highest honours: Best Mathematics Student across all nine centres, Best Graduating Student for Georgetown and Best Leadership Award.
He credited his success to a supportive network of lecturers, classmates, and mentors, including CPCE educator, Mahindra Sharma, whose encouragement helped him recognise the importance of embracing every opportunity.
“My father’s soul can rest now,” Narine said, adding: “I finally found the career I was meant to chase from the beginning.”
Today, he teaches with passion and a clear mission: to reshape how Mathematics is taught in Guyana.
He plans to pursue his Degree in Education at the University of Guyana next year, with a focus on engaging students through ICT, real-life applications, and inclusive classroom strategies.
Narine also offers advice to aspiring educators and young professionals: “Never limit yourself. Your greatest challenge in life is your mindset. Ask questions, take advice, and always be willing to lead. Teaching is like God’s work — do your duties with love, patience, and conviction.”