The University of Guyana has highlighted and honoured the 40-year journey of Debra Brathwaite, a dedicated staff member who has significantly contributed to the institution’s growth and success.
From her humble beginnings as a Typist Clerk in 1981 to her current role as Assistant Personnel Officer in the Human Resources Management department, Brathwaite’s journey according to UG is an inspiring testament to professional growth and personal commitment.
As mentioned, Brathwaite’s association with UG began on November 9, 1981, when she joined as a Typist Clerk in the Faculty of Arts, now known as the Faculty of Education and Humanities. Fresh out of school, she embraced her role with enthusiasm, eager to contribute and learn. Reflecting on her early days, Brathwaite fondly recalled a vibrant and engaging campus culture, where staff clubs and activities fostered a sense of community and camaraderie.
“It was a very positive culture, much like the culture today. Staff clubs and various activities kept the university community united and motivated. Unlike today’s tech-dominated environment, people found time to interact with each other,” she reminisced. This environment provided a fertile ground for her growth, both personally and professionally.
Encouraged by her mentors and colleagues, Brathwaite pursued further education, enrolling in courses that would pave the way for her career advancement. “I took a good look at where I was and where I wanted to be, and I was determined to make a big impact in my career,” she shared. Her determination paid off, and by the late 1980s, she was promoted to Admin Assistant in the Recruitment department within the Personnel Division.
Balancing work, studies, and family life was a significant challenge for Brathwaite. As she pursued her studies in Public Management at UG, she juggled the responsibilities of being a wife and mother. Despite the challenges, she persevered with the support of her classmates, who recorded lectures on cassettes to ensure she stayed on track even when she had to miss classes.
“There was no way a person could be working at the University of Guyana and not develop themselves,” Brathwaite emphasized, highlighting the university’s commitment to fostering personal growth and development.
Brathwaite’s career trajectory continued to ascend as she took on more responsibilities and roles within the university. She pursued studies in Human Resource Management from the University of the West Indies Cave Hill, which further equipped her with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in her career. Her dedication and hard work led to her current position as Assistant Personnel Officer, where she has made significant contributions to the university’s Human Resources Management department.
Throughout her journey, Brathwaite said she has cherished the small but significant moments that made her time at UG rewarding. Celebrating team achievements, witnessing colleagues’ growth, and contributing to their success are memories she holds dear. “I am proud of the performance of the staff who have studied and gained their Master’s or Doctoral degrees and returned… I am proud to have been a small part of that,” she said.
In 2022, Brathwaite received a longstanding award for her forty years of dedicated service at a ceremony held at the university. This recognition was a testament to her unwavering commitment and the profound impact she has had on the university community.
“This experience has been heart-warming and I would do it all over again if I have to. The University of Guyana is indeed a wonderful place to work. Not only does it help with one’s professional growth, but the fact that we are playing our own small role in seeing our students achieve their dream of acquiring their degrees and go on to lead successful lives, this gives personal satisfaction,”
According to UG, her story is not just about professional achievements but also about the personal connections and support systems that have fuelled her journey. It said it is proud to have team members like Brathwaite, whose dedication and spirit continue to inspire and uplift the community.
As she nears retirement, she looks forward to new endeavours, including working with women in prison, contributing to hospital services, and engaging in various church projects.
She has expressed heartfelt gratitude to her mentors, team members at UG, pastor, church community, and her family, especially her husband and children, for their support throughout her journey.
“I will continue to serve my community and country the best way I can, and UG has given me a good platform to build on to do that,” Brathwaite said.
