Michael and Shereen Sealy, a couple set to graduate later this month from the University of Guyana, with Michael earning a Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety and Shereen completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work.

For Shereen and Michael Sealey, graduation from the University of Guyana isn't just an individual achievement, it’s the culmination of a decade-long journey shared between two dedicated police officers, a husband and wife who refused to let their duties or origins define their potential.

Shereen's life began in Victory Valley, Wismar Linden, a place many once dismissed as a "ghetto area." Yet, her upbringing was defined by resilience, faith, and a deep-seated determination inherited from her hardworking mother.  “But I am proud to stand today as living proof that greatness can emerge from even the humblest beginnings,” Shereen shares, reflecting on how her mother’s sacrifices turned life’s challenges into stepping stones toward a brighter future.

Their paths converged in the Guyana Police Force. Shereen, who will be graduating from the University of Guyana with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, found herself motivated by Michael Sealey, her husband, whose ambition and discipline were a constant source of encouragement. Michael, too, is celebrating a major win this year, earning his Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety with Distinction. His academic path was uniquely difficult; stationed in interior locations as part of the disciplined force, he often struggled with problematic internet access to attend online classes. However, with his wife’s encouragement, he decided to persevere, now pursuing his Bachelor of Arts Degree to complete his current academic journey.

Shereen credits her mother-in-law, Ms. Bonita Hunter, a  “strong and inspiring woman,”  she said, who encouraged her to enroll in UG. Shereen initially doubted her ability to juggle work and study, but Ms. Hunter never stopped believing that this is possible. Her sister-in-law, Kezia Bacchus, took belief a step further: she completed Shereen’s UG application herself. She simply announced to Shereen,  “You can do this.” Shereen remembers the moment clearly:  “Her faith in me gave me the courage to take the leap.”  Kezia applied the same logic to Michael, recognising the collective capital higher education would bring to the family.

When Shereen first began her studies, she was a quiet, reserved student who hesitated to contribute, often fearing her thoughts wouldn't make sense next to the confident voices in the lecture hall. Over time, she realised her perspective was valid, and she slowly found the courage to speak up. She graduated with her Associate Degree in Social Work in 2023 and, renewed with gratitude and determination, immediately pursued the Bachelor’s Degree.

For the Sealey couple, balancing work, home life, and university was a constant challenge. The hardest sacrifice was being away from their two children, or being home but consumed by assignments and projects. Watching their disappointed faces was heartbreaking. There were moments when Shereen felt overwhelmed and even told colleagues and family she was ready to quit. It was the collective encouragement from everyone that reminded her not to give up on herself, or their shared goal.

Later this month, Shereen will graduate as the first in her family to earn a Bachelor’s Degree, fulfilling the University of Guyana’s goal of “One Graduate per household.” Looking back, she says,  “I look back with immense pride and satisfaction. My journey from Victory Valley, a place many once dismissed, to this moment of accomplishment is a testament to what determination, faith, and support can achieve. I owe this success to my mother-in-law, who taught me resilience, whose love and support never wavered and whose belief in me kept me going. My story is proof that greatness can come from anywhere. It doesn’t matter where you begin, what matters is your will to rise, to persevere, and to believe in yourself even when others doubt you.”

Michael, standing alongside her, feels the weight of his own achievement.  “I know that my mother and my siblings are so excited for me and proud of my accomplishments. My Mom’s belief in my wife and I never wavered.”  They stand today as two successful police officers, ready and willing to continue serving their country with distinction, now armed with enhanced academic credentials and a testament to their enduring partnership.