Kudos to His Inspiring Journey
By Corporal Ayana Williams
In the bustling streets of the capital city, a young man once called out for passengers. Today, Sergeant Troy Anthony Van Rossum stands as a testament to the power of determination and resilience.
At just 13 years old, Van Rossum began working as a minibus conductor—not merely out of necessity, but from a steadfast desire to uplift his family and secure his education. The earnings from that job financed his secondary education, leading to his successful attainment of seven CSEC subjects at St. Mary’s High School in 2011.
Support came from many directions. Encouraged by those around him, Troy applied to the University of Guyana. While awaiting confirmation, he returned to conducting to save for his tuition. During this time, he was supported by Mr. Prince Wilson, the owner of minibus BMM 1679, who provided steady employment and motivated Troy to continue his academic pursuits.
In late 2012, he was accepted into the Diploma in Forestry program at the University of Guyana, starting in January 2013. Transitioning to university life wasn’t easy; his first exam in Soil Science resulted in a disheartening score of 27%. However, he was not alone. Classmates like Loris Vangenderen, Jermaine Hunte, Devika Singh, Felix Braithwaite, Ronnel Domer, and Terrence Brown supported each other with a “no man left behind” mentality, ultimately graduating with Bachelor of Science degrees.
Troy aspired to serve in the Guyana Defence Force as a Cadet Officer, but a medical issue redirected his path. Undeterred, he enlisted in the Guyana Police Force in 2017, the same year he graduated from the University of Guyana. His journey didn’t end there.
In 2022, Van Rossum applied for the Guyana Online Academy of Learning’s ‘GOAL’ Scholarship to pursue a Master’s in Criminology and Social Policy at Liverpool John Moores University in the United Kingdom. This was not just a career move; it was a calling. He was inspired to become “an officer focusing on the youths and crime,” aiming to be a guiding presence in the lives of those often overlooked.
Through his postgraduate studies, Troy gained valuable insights into the root causes of youth delinquency, peer pressure, unstable home environments, and social neglect. This knowledge now informs his approach: empathy first, solutions second. He emphasizes the importance of assessing when intervention requires social services rather than punishment, striving to build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Beyond his police work, Sergeant Van Rossum is deeply involved in youth and community development. Collaborating with the Back Circle Ballers, he organized two of the country’s largest small-goal football tournaments, fully sponsored by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Hon. Charles Ramson Jnr., and the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Clifton Hicken. As the second Vice President of the Riddim Squad Football Club, he aims to transform the club into a hub of opportunity for youth.
One of his early aspirations was a Police Recruitment Drive aimed at creating new employment avenues for young people, supported by the president and executive members of the club.
Looking ahead to 2026, Troy envisions launching steelpan clubs and expanding football and cricket programs into every Guyanese community—efforts he believes are vital for crime prevention and social cohesion.
A Life Anchored in Gratitude
Sergeant Van Rossum credits his achievements to divine guidance and the unwavering support of his family and mentors. He extends heartfelt thanks to his parents, foster parents, brothers, and extended family, as well as the faithful support of his wife, the Guyana Police Force, the GOAL Scholarship Board, and great friends.
From a minibus conductor to a Master’s degree holder, Troy’s story is one of resilience, faith, and an unshakable commitment. He exemplifies that no dream is too ambitious and no beginning too humble when fueled by passion and purpose.
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