Afiana Lesperance, a single mother whose childhood was fraught with hardship and discouragement, is set to be one of 469 students graduating from the University of Guyana’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) on Friday, December 5, 2025.
Afiana’s story reflects the journeys of many IDCE graduates who have embraced a crucial second chance to transform their lives. By completing the Certificate Programme in Industrial Relations and Management, she has opened new avenues, including the possibility of furthering her education towards a degree at the University of Guyana.
Growing up as the eldest of seven children raised by a single mother, Afiana faced low expectations and harsh judgments from peers and educators. “They would say hurtful things like, ‘Nothing good will come from you.’ Those words could have destroyed me, but instead, they fueled my determination,” she recalled.
Her son serves as her primary source of strength and inspiration. “Everything I pushed through, I did for him. He has been my greatest motivation,” Afiana shared.
A pivotal moment in her journey occurred when she was denied a job opportunity due to her lack of qualifications. “Those words of denial cut deeper than a knife,” she said. Rather than succumb to defeat, Afiana reached out to the University of Guyana and discovered, “It’s never too late for anything.” Motivated, she enrolled in the Industrial Relations and Management programme at IDCE.
Balancing her studies with full-time work and parenting required immense discipline and resilience. “My journey was challenging but extremely rewarding. There were many late nights, moments of doubt, and times when I felt overwhelmed. But I persevered because I wanted a better life for my son and myself,” she explained.
Through her dedication and hard work, Afiana now holds the position of Human Resource Manager at Professional Guard Services—an achievement she once thought unattainable. “Graduating means everything to me. It is proof that my past does not define my future. It represents growth, independence, and breaking generational barriers,” she said.
She credits her support system, including her son and siblings, for their encouragement during tough times, and expressed gratitude towards the lecturers and staff at IDCE. Above all, she recognizes her faith as a guiding force: “I thank God for the courage, strength, wisdom, and understanding that He has blessed me with. Without God, none of this would be possible,” she added.
Having conquered obstacles many would consider insurmountable, Afiana hopes to inspire others with her story. “Do not give up on yourself. Your situation is not your destination. You can achieve anything once you believe you deserve better,” she urged.
With her IDCE journey concluding, Afiana plans to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Guyana, aiming to enhance her qualifications in human resources and management.
The University of Guyana’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education will host its Convocation on Friday, December 5th at 1:00 PM at the University’s Turkeyen Campus. The public is invited to view the ceremony live on the University’s Facebook page.
