Rising Against the Odds: Roschelle Campbell’s Journey of Perseverance and Passion

In the heart of the Ancient County of Berbice lies the village of Alness (Region Six), home to 22-year-old Roschelle Campbell, a young woman whose journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and determination. Roschelle does not see setbacks as failures but as opportunities for growth, a philosophy that has shaped her path from childhood to becoming one of Guyana’s most promising young agriculturists.

A proud graduate of the University of Guyana, Roschelle earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, receiving the prestigious Best Graduating Agriculture Student award. Her academic journey began at Port Mourant Primary School (Class of 2014) and continued at President’s College (Class of 2019). During her time at university, she was actively involved in the Agriculture Club, serving first as Vice President and later as Public Relations Officer. In this role, she combined her love for agriculture with graphic design, creating promotional graphics to raise awareness about the field.

Roschelle’s passion for agriculture is more than academic—it is deeply personal. Growing up in a rural community, she was exposed to various agricultural activities. However, it was during her high school years, while working on a farm, that she truly discovered her love for the field. The COVID-19 pandemic further reinforced her commitment when she started a kitchen garden, not only feeding her family but also helping her neighbours and friends. This experience solidified her dream of contributing to Guyana’s food security and playing a role in making the country the breadbasket of the Caribbean once again.

Her ambitions extend beyond personal success. Aspiring to become a quarantine officer, Roschelle envisions safeguarding Guyana’s agriculture sector. A defining moment in her journey was attending a Poultry Science Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, in July 2024, where she realized the importance of engaging children in agriculture from an early age. This revelation has fueled her mission to inspire and educate future generations about the significance of agriculture, ensuring that the industry continues to thrive.

Despite her achievements, Roschelle’s journey was not without challenges. One of her biggest hurdles came with her CSEC results—out of ten subjects, she secured nine. Receiving the news while at an airport, she was devastated, feeling the weight of expectations as the daughter of a pastor and a teacher. The judgment and whispers from others were difficult to endure, but she found strength in her faith. Clinging to the belief that “delayed does not mean denied” Roschelle, retook Mathematics in January and passed, setting her back on course. Isaiah 60:22, “At the right time, I, the Lord, will make it happen,” became her guiding scripture, reminding her to trust in divine timing.

Roschelle also faced anxiety and panic attacks, making her academic life even more challenging. However, with the unwavering support of her friends and family, she developed coping mechanisms that helped her push through. Her research project proved to be another test of endurance, bringing sleepless nights, tears, and self-doubt.However, she sought guidance from lecturers, professionals, and peers, ultimately overcoming these obstacles.

Now, as she seeks employment, Roschelle remains dedicated to her community. She is the International Service Director for the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam (RCNA) and actively supports youth development activities in her church, serving as the Secretary of the youth ministry and as a dance minister. Recognizing the importance of personal growth, she uses this transitional period to continue learning and giving back.

Roschelle’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is not instantaneous. As she often reflects, “The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.” This quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow encapsulates her belief in perseverance.

For young women considering careers in science, especially agriculture, Roschelle offers heartfelt advice: “Go for it! The world needs you. Keep learning, growing, and stay passionate. The journey won’t be easy, but never give up. Surround yourself with positive people who support your dreams, and remember to be that support for others. Each one, win one—help as many as you can. Mistakes and failures are part of the process; just don’t let them define you.”