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Everyone’s journey is unique, and success comes in different forms, even for those who start with challenges. Meet 23-year-old Haslyn Small, an aspiring dentist hailing from Watooka, Region 10. Small is a young man with a dream, determination, and an inspiring story of transformation.
“Growing up, I was never the smartest kid in the bunch but I had a hidden talent of perseverance and determination being my strong suit which was overlooked for the earlier years of my life,” he said.
He described his childhood as full of life and spontaneity and fond memories. For Haslyn, being successful seemed almost inevitable as he was born into a household of head teachers, doctors, and business professionals.
He stated “Personal pressure started to manifest itself during the latter years of my life, after the National Grade Six exams (NGSA) when I didn’t get the desired school I was aiming for.”
Small was awarded a spot at the New Silvercity Secondary school, and this daunted his spirit because of societal pressure attributing to the fact that both his parents being head teachers, one being the head of the most prominent secondary school in Linden (MacKenzie High School. He was still determined to make something of himself regardless of the school he attended. His father often motivated him, by saying, “You have a gift son, find it and work on it.”
During his time in high school, he was a voluntary person, always ready to step up and make himself known (a personal trait of his). In fourth form, life became serious for him, as he had to choose which career path he was going to pursue. He ventured into the science stream, after being inspired by his cousins becoming doctors. At that point, he was unsure of which doctor he wanted to be, however he knew he was drawn to the field of medicine. As his school journey continued, he participated in various extracurricular activities, such as basketball competitions and a drama film (Julius Caesar). In the film, he played the role of Mark Anthony, while being mentored by Ms.Grace Chapman. His determination and persistent spirit were tested again because he wasn’t too successful at CSEC examinations. Small copped 6/10 subjects excluding the core subjects Mathematics and English. That daunted his spirit and made him frustrated. However his father uttered that quote again ( you have a gift son, find it and work on it). With the motivation and full support of my parents, he reapplied to my Alma mater school to gain said subjects.
After completing CSEC, he was placed to complete his work study stint at the Linden Hospital Complex, during that time, his passion for dentistry was birthed and fueled. As such, he believed that dentistry chose him. “At first I wasn’t very optimistic but after seeing the perception that people have about dentistry, and the motivation I was given by the doctors and nurses in that department. I was convinced that Dentistry was my GIFT. So with that I set out my all to become not just a dentist but a dentist that garners a social impact and to change the perception and lack of knowledge that most persons have about perfection and its entirety,” he told this publication.
After gaining the said subjects, Small applied for the diploma of science course, at the Government Technical Institute (GTI). While attending GTI, he had to leave his hometown for the first time. It was scary but he was determined to achieve his goal. “While at GTI, I joined the environmental club where I became the Public Relations Officer (PRO). There we organised various events, such as; cleanups. We also volunteered to represent the science department in the science fair. But those fond moments here cut short and I had to leave the school due to my grades not being sufficient to enter the final year. Again, distressed, disappointed, and depressed.” A determined Small, thought of his next steps, which led him to the University of Guyana to pursue an Associates degree of science in chemistry. He graduated with credit. That led him to the course he is currently pursuing. In an effort to give back, he goes back to his Alma mater to volunteer his services by either helping the students with their SBA, giving them lessons in chemistry, mathematics and any other area they are weak in, or motivational talks with them to encourage and inspire them, so they know that they can make it regardless of where and what background they come from.
After completing his Associate Degree in Chemistry. He applied for the Bachelors of science (dental surgery), with an aim to not only become a dentist, but to also be an educator, so he can educate people while on his journey. With lots of brainstorming and observations, he launched KOOL SMILES Saturday. KOOL SMILES Saturday is an initiative where Small answers dental questions and sheds light on various dental topics and tips to his WhatsApp viewers. He noted that the responses he’s been getting from this initiative were simply heart-warming and fulfilling, and soon he’ll be producing content for Tiktok. He aims to not only build his clientele but provide an educational service as well and centre his brand around KOOL SMILES with the tagline, promoting a healthy body, mind, and teeth.
He highlighted, “I’ve faced disappointments and failure throughout my life. Typical example being my academic journey, failure after failure, but my persistence and determination pulled me through my entire time of feeling like giving up and life contemplations.” Haslyn’s biggest challenge is the loss of my father. His dad passed right before he graduated with his Associates Degree.
“He didn’t get to see the strides I’ve made or the man I’ve become… But his statements, quotes and lessons will always resonate in my mind and propell me towards my GIFT. With the help of my mother, significant other, and family members, I’m learning to cope with such a tragic blow at such a crucial time. I attribute my life’s challenges to one Bible verse that comes from Isaiah 60:22 “when the time is right, I the lord will make it happen.”” an emotional Haslyn said.
When asked for advice, the budding dentist stressed, “Walk your own path regardless of the stumbling blocks life places in your path. A simple quote to ALWAYS REMEMBER when faced with a challenge, set back or obstacle. “When life knocks you down, try to land on your back, because if you can look up you can get up. Let your reason ger you back up.”
Prioritise your goals, but monitor your mental health as well, burn out and depression is real, take time for yourselves and enjoy your journey towards success. Let your why be bigger than your disappointment. And finally, find your WHY, so you can achieve your highest level of greatness.Find your mission, realistic your purpose, figure out what you were put on this earth to do. Do what must be done and everything will fall into line. Don’t try to control the outcome and be battered, but you can control and dictate your EFFORT so always give 120% EFFORT. Be persistent, be determined. Have skill and will.”
“My life is a testimony that shows what the Lord can do for you as long as you put faith and trust in him. To know that he himself has designed my life in his image. These successes and failures aren’t just the highlight of my life but I’d like for the world to see how God has kept me even through these trials and successes and gave me the strength to move past each storm.TRUST GOD TRUST YOURSELF AND TRUST THE PROCESS,” he said.
Small’s story is a reminder that success is not just about where you begin but about the effort and perseverance you put into reaching your goals. Through his journey, he demonstrates that dreams are achievable when you believe in yourself and are willing to put in the work to make them a reality.