In the corridors of academia, amidst the challenges of higher education, there exist stories that inspire, stories of triumph over adversity. One such narrative revolves around a remarkable young woman, Allison Jordan who not only endured the profound loss of her mother at a tender age, but also emerged victorious with a degree in civil engineering from the University of Guyana. This is the story of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
Allison’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Her mother, a pillar of support and encouragement throughout her life, was murdered when she was young. The grief and sorrow threatened to overwhelm her, casting a dark shadow over her academic pursuits. In the midst of her pain, Allison faced a critical decision — to succumb to despair or to use her grief as a catalyst for growth.
Rather than allowing tragedy to define her, with support from her aunt, who acted as a mother figure, Allison chose to honour her mother’s memory by dedicating herself to her studies in civil engineering. The road ahead was daunting, but she approached it with tenacity and a determination to turn her pain into purpose. The rigorous coursework and demanding projects became a therapeutic outlet for her grief, allowing her to channel her emotions into a constructive and meaningful pursuit.
Amidst the technical intricacies of her studies, she also found Chevening Scholar and grief advocate, Marva Langevine, who provided financial and emotional support as well as encouragement for her via the Guyana Golden Lives Organisation (GGLO).
Jordan grew up in Den-Amstel, West Coast of Demerara, Region Three. She described her childhood as difficult, as she lost her mother and was dealing with the traumatic effects of grief. After the death of her mom, Jordan’s aunt took care of her and her siblings. Her hobbies are reading, listening to music, and playing video games.
As it relates to her education, she attended the Den Amstel nursery and primary schools. However, her primary school experience wasn’t the best. “I was still coping with the loss of my parents, and I was always getting into trouble. I wouldn’t study, and I would always score low on my exams. My teachers would often tell me, “You have potential; you just have to push yourself.” It wasn’t until I wrote the National Grade Six Assessment and got Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary that I realised I needed to focus on my educational endeavours,” Jordan stated.
At Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary, she decided to focus on scoring good grades on all assignments, projects, and her exams. I had some of the most caring, good-natured, and motivating teachers. They saw my potential and would always say to me, “You can do anything you set your mind to, once you work hard for it.” Her teacher’s encouragement wasn’t in vain; as she sat the CSEC exams, where she got eight subjects. Her aunt, Patricia Payne, was really proud of me, as she worked really hard to provide the best life she could for Jordan, and in reciprocity, Jordan aced her exams to show her appreciation.
After secondary school, Allison began thinking about her future career, being a Civil Engineer. “My desire to pursue this career path started with my intense curiosity for road construction. I had no idea where or how I was going to pursue this career. That was until I spoke to Ms. Marva Langevine, who encouraged me and supported me emotionally and financially through my pursuit of my technician diploma at the Government Technical Institute.” According to Jordan, Langevine, laid the foundation for her career. “I am very thankful for all that she and the Guyana Golden Lives Organisation have done for me. I graduated from my technician programme at GTI, and the next step was to attend university.”
With a passion for education, as well as wanting to challenge herself academically once again. She expressed her yearning desire to continue her studies at the University of Guyana to my stepmother, Mrs. Shondel Fraser-King, who encouraged her to go for it. Mrs. Fraser-King would always check in, and provide support and advice for her. She noted that Fraser-King will always let her know how proud of her and how happy she is to be a part of her journey through university.
She mentioned, “There are so many obstacles that came my way along this journey that had me considering giving up, like financial issues, the intensity of the work, and the lack of motivation. Sometimes I feel like I can’t make it or that this career path isn’t for me, but I always pray whenever I’m feeling discouraged. I have faith, and I’m sure God placed me here for a reason.”
When asked what advice she has for females, Allison said, “I would tell any female wanting to pursue this career that it isn’t an easy task; don’t feel discouraged because it’s a male-dominated field. Keep your head high and give it your best shot. The sky is the limit.”
With a spirit of gratitude Allison, would like to say thank you to her aunt Patricia for all she has done and all that she continues to do for her as she pursues her dream career. She also expresses her thank you to Ms. Marva Langevine, for helping her through the first step of her career, as well as to her sponsor Ms. Noreen Gaskin for her financial contributions towards her technician diploma. Jordan also thanks Mrs. Shondel Fraser-King. She added, “I’ve made it to my associate degree because of your encouragement and financial support. Thank you to my siblings for openly showing me how proud you are of me and continuing to celebrate all of my academic success. Thank you to all of the people who gave me some words of encouragement within my village. And finally, thank you to my dearest friends who’ve been working with me academically to achieve our degrees.”
Jordan aims to be an inspiration to all young people, especially girls in STEM
“No matter what life throws at you, you can do all things through Christ. Everything that you always wished for could be yours if you’re determined and work hard for it. Mark 11:24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours,” is Allison’s advice to youths.
Her story is a beacon of inspiration for those grappling with grief and adversity. It reminds us that within the crucible of life’s challenges, there exists an opportunity for growth, transformation, and triumph. Her journey from grief to graduation serves as a reminder that even in the face of profound loss, the human spirit has the capacity to rise, rebuild, and ultimately, to triumph.
