IT was with great enthusiasm to upgrade her tertiary education, coupled with an unbridled need to take her life to the next level, that Shabana Abdool-Bhojedat became all she wanted to be — an educator.

She is a dedicated educator and literacy advocate in the country, based in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), who has devoted many years to advancing education.

From humble beginnings, she worked tirelessly to make something of herself and also to make her parents proud as a way of showing gratitude for their hard work in raising her.

It was with true motivation and the gift of multitasking that, while being a mother of three, Abdool-Bhojedat propelled herself to work and study to become qualified in her field.

Born and raised on the beautiful island of Wakenaam, Essequibo River, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), she began her educational journey at Zeelandia Nursery School, then moved on to Zeelandia Primary School, and later attended Essequibo Islands Secondary School.

Driven by her passion for teaching and learning, Abdool-Bhojedat pursued professional training at the Cyril Potter College of Education.

She later continued her academic advancement at the University of Guyana, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

Her commitment to lifelong learning further led her to complete a Postgraduate Diploma at Indira Gandhi University.

She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in English at Jain Deemed-to-be University.

Abdool-Bhojedat has served in the field of education for more than 13 years at Novar Primary School and previously worked for one year at St. Cuthbert’s Primary School.

She currently serves as a Literacy Committee Member for Region Five, where she continues to contribute significantly to literacy development and educational improvement.

In addition to her work within the primary education sector, she also serves as a part-time lecturer at the CPCE, where she assists in the training and development of future educators.

Outside of her professional life, she enjoys travelling, spending time with her family, and giving back to society in subtle ways she deems appropriate.

Growing up

Life on the quiet island of Wakenaam was simple yet meaningful. Surrounded by nature, rice fields and the close-knit village community, Abdool-Bhojedat enjoyed a happy childhood filled with memorable experiences.

Her father was a rice farmer who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. As a child, she admired his dedication and strong work ethic.

One of her favourite childhood memories was riding on the combine during rice harvesting season.

She enjoyed spending time with her father in the rice fields and watching the hard labour he put into farming as part of his everyday job.

Abdool-Bhojedat related that those experiences helped her appreciate the value of perseverance, determination and honest labour.

Growing up with four brothers also made her confident and independent. She often joined in activities that many girls her age would avoid.

Being around her brothers encouraged her to become brave, adventurous and outspoken. From a young age, she developed a love for driving and learned to drive early while living on the island.

This experience gave her a sense of responsibility and confidence that remained with her throughout her life.

During her school years, she developed a strong passion for learning and helping others. Her love for education inspired her to pursue a career in teaching and literacy development.

During her final year at the CPCE, she met the love of her life, Caleb Bhojedat.

Their relationship quickly grew into a strong bond built on love, understanding and support. The couple fell deeply in love and got married in the very same year.

In 2012, they tied the knot. Together, they have three children: Kiara Bhojedat, Siara Bhojedat and Caden Bhojedat.

Through her dedication, academic achievements and commitment to education, Abdool-Bhojedat continues to inspire both her colleagues and learners while making meaningful contributions to the educational sector in Guyana.

Since then, Caleb has remained one of her greatest supporters throughout her educational journey and professional career.

Her children are her pride and joy, and she works hard every day to provide them with love, guidance and a positive example to follow.

Despite her busy schedule as an educator and lecturer, she always makes time for her family and values the importance of creating strong family bonds.

Throughout her years of service, she has remained committed to improving literacy and supporting both teachers and students in their educational journey.

Despite life’s many challenges, including the loss of both of her parents, Abdool-Bhojedat remains grateful for the strong foundation they provided for her.

Today, she continues to serve her community with pride, passion and dedication.

Her journey from a small village girl on the island of Wakenaam to an educator and lecturer is a true reflection of hard work, determination and perseverance.

Her life story serves as a reminder that humble beginnings can lead to meaningful achievements through faith, dedication and the willingness to work hard for one’s dreams.

Shabana Abdool-Bhojedat was born in the little village of Zeelandia on the island of Wakenaam to her parents, the late Rafeek Abdool and Marian Abdool.

She is the only daughter in her family and grew up alongside her four older brothers, all of whom played an important role in shaping her childhood and values.

Growing up in a large family taught her the importance of love, unity, respect and responsibility from a very early age.