Sharma Castello-Kendall: A Journey Shaped by Passion and Purpose

At just 28 years old, Sharma Castello-Kendall has already made a lasting mark on the lives of countless children. Born and raised in the small Amerindian village of Waramuri, Region One, Sharma’s path to education was shaped by both challenges and opportunities.

In 2014, she sat six CSEC subjects and was successful, despite limited access to options she had. Today, with a newly built Universal Secondary School in the village, she beams with pride knowing that the next generation will have greater opportunities than she once had.

Though initially drawn to the medical field, Sharma’s mother encouraged her to try teaching, a suggestion that changed her life forever. In 2015, she joined the profession, and by 2021, she had graduated from the Cyril Potter College of Education with an Associate Degree in Primary Education. Currently, she is completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Literacy Studies at the University of Guyana while serving at Potaro Primary School, after seven years of dedicated service at Waramuri Primary.

Her passion for education was nurtured early. From teaching Sunday school at her church to being mentored by her Grade Six teacher, Mr. Colin De La Cruz, who later became her colleague and head teacher. Sharma’s journey has been guided by inspiration and mentorship.

“Teaching has always been my calling,” she reflects. “I’ve never been afraid to stand before a class, share knowledge, and make learning enjoyable.” For her, the greatest reward lies in building strong, lasting relationships with learners and shaping their development not just academically, but holistically.

Still, the profession has its challenges. Balancing workload with personal life is never easy, but Sharma has learned that effective time management is the key to success.

Her advice to aspiring educators is simple but profound: “Teaching is a calling. You must have a genuine heart for it and love what you do. If you find yourself in that category, then embrace it wholeheartedly, because teaching is one of the most meaningful and impactful careers one can pursue.”