In a powerful celebration of educational dedication, STEMGuyana has announced the winners of its 2025 Teacher of the Year Awards, recognizing three educators who have profoundly impacted their students and communities. With 3,979 votes cast by the public, the awards spotlight those who shape Guyana’s future; often without acclaim, inside and outside the classroom.
Sponsored by STEMGuyana co-founders Ima, Asha, and Caleb Christian, the awards distributed $100,000 in prize money, underscoring the organization’s belief that “teachers remain one of the most powerful forces shaping Guyana’s future.”
Champion of Innovation Takes Top Honor
Winning first place with 1,428 votes is Dwayne Daniels of Friendship Secondary School in Region Four. Daniels approaches teaching as an identity, not just a profession. “Teaching is central to who I am,” he said, driven by “seeing students grow academically and personally.” He intentionally integrates technology to strengthen literacy and critical thinking, guided by a personal mission: “Securing our nation’s future by delivering innovative and effective education to today’s generation.” For his impactful work, Daniels receives $50,000.
Inclusive Tech Visionary Earns Second Place
Rayann Halley, an ICT teacher in the primary department at the School of Nations, secured second place with 1,143 votes. Working in a diverse, multilingual setting, Halley ensures technology education is accessible to every student. She calls teaching “a journey of continuous learning, growth, and self-discovery.” Her use of emerging tools, including artificial intelligence, has created a classroom where curiosity leads and students build and problem-solve confidently. Halley is awarded $30,000.
Community-Centered Mentor Claims Third
Sharmala Singh of Lake Mainstay Primary School in Region Two received third place with 410 votes. A teacher, STEM coach, and mentor, Singh believes “every child deserves to feel capable, valued, and supported.” Her motivation stems from making a positive difference daily, proving that educational excellence thrives beyond urban centers through dedication and care. Singh receives $20,000.
Student Voices Lead the Selection
Notably, nominations originated mainly from students, who identified educators who inspired, challenged, and believed in them. “Students recognize excellence when they experience it,” the awards committee emphasized.
A Broader Movement for Quality Education
The awards also highlighted encouraging trends in Guyana’s educational landscape. A strong showing of nominees from outside Georgetown reflects the government’s expanded teacher training initiatives nationwide, helping distribute quality education opportunities across regions.
A special acknowledgment went to St. Stanislaus College, which produced the highest number of nominees; Rashanna Murray, Melanie Christina Alphonso, Chris Kirshnaram, Grace Brummell, and Shevvon Williams. This concentration points to a school culture that fosters excellence and values student voice.
More Than a Celebration, A Signal of Hope
STEMGuyana emphasized that teachers do far more than deliver lessons; they motivate, guide, and support students through academic and personal challenges. In a nation where literacy, numeracy, and school completion remain pressing concerns, educators who go beyond the syllabus are vital to national development.
The 2025 awards serve as both recognition and inspiration, a reminder that in classrooms across Guyana, dedicated teachers are laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient future.
Congratulations to Dwayne Daniels, Rayann Halley, Sharmala Singh, and all nominees. Your work matters. Your impact is visible. And Guyana’s children are better because of you.
