WHEN Nickesha Ross-Long walks across the stage at the University of Guyana’s 59th Convocation in November, she will do so with tears of gratitude and triumph.
For the Registered Nursing Assistant from Chesney, Corentyne, Berbice, the moment represents not just academic success but the culmination of years of perseverance, faith, and unwavering family support.
For more than 13 years, Ross-Long has served as a Registered Nursing Assistant, dedicating her life to caring for others. To her, nursing is not just a job — it is “a ministry of compassion.”
Her empathy for patients, particularly those struggling with mental health challenges or recovering from suicide attempts, inspired her to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at the University of Guyana, even while completing her studies at the New Amsterdam School of Nursing for her Registered Nursing (RN) qualification.
“It wasn’t easy,” she recalled. “Balancing school, work, and family was overwhelming at times. My grades weren’t where I wanted them to be, and I doubted myself. But my faith and my family kept me going.”

At the heart of that encouragement was her sister, Mrs. Natoya Ross-De Santos, a lecturer at UG’s Turkeyen Campus, who consistently reminded her of her potential.
“Some days I thought she was too hard on me,” Nickesha said with a laugh, “but now I see that it was exactly what I needed.”
Ross-Long’s academic journey began with a Diploma in Psychology, but one of her lecturers, Ms. Kendall, recognised her promise and encouraged her to advance to the degree level.
Just as she took that leap, she was also accepted into the Registered Nursing programme she had been striving toward for years. Instead of choosing one, she courageously decided to do both.
Her determination was further tested when she had to complete a six-month online GED programme through Amity University, all while juggling nursing practicals, lectures, and family life.
“My Thursdays were for nursing practicals, weekends for studying, and weekdays for UG. It was exhausting, but I kept reminding myself that God would see me through.”
Her husband, Kurt, became her anchor throughout the process. Stationed overseas for work, he ensured she had the financial and emotional support needed to continue. “He bought me a car so I could travel from Corentyne to Georgetown safely for classes. And whenever I said I wanted to quit, he reminded me that I could finish,” she shared.
Her children — Kiara (16) and Keifer (12) — also became part of her success story. “They demanded good grades from me because I demand good grades from them,” Nickesha said proudly. Kiara would prepare meals for her mother’s late-night returns, while Keifer kept her company over the phone during long drives.
There were sacrifices too. “When my son was preparing for his Secondary School Entrance Exams, I couldn’t help him as much as I wanted, so I got him a tutor — and he did well,” she reflected. Her mother, Ann, also played a crucial role, always ready to lend a helping hand.
Even at work, her colleagues rallied behind her. Her supervisor arranged night shifts so she could attend classes during the day. “I hardly slept, but I was determined,” she admitted. Among her classmates, she found a circle of supportive friends who helped one another stay focused through long study sessions.
Now, as she prepares to celebrate 17 years of marriage next month and to proudly don her graduation gown, Ross-Long stands as a symbol of perseverance.
“I thank God for everything, for my family, for those who encouraged me, and for giving me strength when I felt weak. It wasn’t easy, but with faith and support, all things are possible.”
Her story is more than one of academic achievement. It is a testament to the power of faith, love, and determination, a reminder that no dream is too far when guided by purpose and grace.
When Nickesha Ross-Long steps onto the University of Guyana graduation stage, she will do so not only as a graduate but as a beacon of inspiration for every woman who has ever dared to chase a dream, no matter how challenging the journey.