– Honours his mother’s resilience and values
– North Georgetown teacher backs president’s youth-centred investment, urges TVET in primary schools.
Considering himself a young man of faith, Antonio Clarkston, affectionately known as Sir Antonio, proudly recalls his educational journey through Starters Nursery, St. Margrett’s Primary, and Christ Church Secondary Schools.
From an early age, young Antonio was guided by a deep sense of gratitude, especially toward his mother, Shanon Clarkston, whose sacrifices as a single parent became the foundation of his mission to serve and uplift others.
Embracing the Teaching Profession
Speaking exclusively with The El Dorado Beacon, Sir Antonio explained that although he found his true calling in education, he explored a range of jobs, including positions at Qualfon, Toucan Distributors, and as an air conditioning technician at Lees Electrical, before getting into the teaching profession.
This diverse work history, he says, illustrates the importance of trying different avenues before settling into one’s purpose.
Noting that his teaching journey began unexpectedly while assisting at a private school run by his former lesson teacher and close friend, Sir Bacchus.
According to him, Sir Bacchus recognised his love for children and giving back to others, and he encouraged him to pursue formal training.
Sir Antonio enrolled at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) and proudly graduated in 2024. Today, this quiet but ambitious professional serves as the physical education teacher at North Georgetown Primary School.
Passion for Youth Fitness and Development
Always energetic and drawn to youth, Sir Antonio explained that his love for physical activity and leadership started at a very young age.
According to him, “Even as a little boy, I was the one gathering my friends to play football or engage in physical activities,” he shared.
This early passion developed into a dedication to teaching children about the importance of health, fitness, and making constructive use of their time both in and out of the classroom.
Sir Antonio emphasised that every Guyanese should prioritise fitness despite their busy schedules.
He noted, “We all have our busy days, but we must remember that we need to take care of our mind, body, and soul so that we can not only look good but have clearer thoughts.”
Sir Antonio also shared that he is a firm believer that exercise also helps with one’s mental health.
Triumph Through Personal Loss
Sharing that his quiet strength stems from a deeply personal place, Sir Antonio explained that he lost his father at a tender age, leaving his mother, an accountant, to raise her three sons all by herself.
“Even though my mother tried to make it seem easy, I saw her struggles,” he said.
Adding that her resilience became the driving force behind his success, Sir Antonio reflected and said, “Seeing everything my mother went through, I knew I had to make her proud.
She worked tirelessly to put a meal on the table and clothes on our backs, but she was determined about us boys getting an education.”
Today, Sir Antonio stated that even though he has not completed all that he truly wants to give his mom, he takes pride in knowing that all three of her sons are educated, giving back to society, and are still closely connected to her.
“Mom, we may not say I love you all the time, or we may not be perfect, but I would like you to know that you are our strength and joy,” Sir Antonio emotionally shared.
“You may not have been able to give us everything growing up, but I want you to know that you did great, you did your best, and we saw that.”
A Vision for Continuous Growth
Although his long-term plan is to further his studies at the University of Guyana, Sir Antonio has made the strategic decision to enrol at the Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI) this September to pursue certification in AC and refrigeration.
According to him, he recognised the value of extra income and practical skills. Noting that he plans to use his school breaks to build a parallel career, the young teacher said, “I have dreams of my own and things I want to do for my mom, so why wait for one pay cheque when I can do more with two?”
Sir Antonio stated that, with numerous job opportunities available in Guyana, it is the ideal time to embrace having multiple careers.
Empowering the Next Generation
In an inspiring message to his peers and younger generations, Sir Antonio said, “Take ownership of your future.
Reflect on the advice that is given, weigh your options, and pursue what you’re truly passionate about.”
Sharing that while he appreciates the wisdom of elders and is respectful of their life experiences, Sir Antonio explained that he also believes they should humbly acknowledge that this is a different era.
“It is easy to say that young people do not know what they want or may not want to work, but we also have to understand that many of them, many of us, may not want the traditional jobs,” he said.
While education is important for everyone, the teacher acknowledged that, realistically, many young people may not always recognise that.
However, he shared that although it is the job of parents, elders, teachers, and the community to help them understand that it is the most important thing, they should also support them in choosing a path that fits their own goals and values.
One that does not include being pressured or judged, so they can succeed and be happy, Sir Antonio emphasised.
Support for Youth-Centred Leadership
Additionally, Sir Antonio applauded President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the current administration for their strong focus on youth development and free education.
He encouraged his fellow youths to take advantage of job creation efforts and educational opportunities created for them in Guyana.
Sir Antonio further reminded the young people that he understands what it’s like to grow up without much, but he also saw firsthand the importance of hard work.
According to him, “The things we work for tend to be more rewarding and lasting than those handed to us.”
A Call to Expand TVET into Primary Schools
While commending the expansion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in secondary schools, Sir Antonio is advocating for even earlier implementation, starting at the primary level.
“Equipping young children with practical skills from an early age will help shape a workforce that’s ready for the demands of the modern economy,” he said.
Acknowledging the success of the programme with the secondary students, Sir Antonio shared that he believes that this bold step could revolutionise education in Guyana by fostering early technical competency, creativity, and independence among pupils.
Looking Ahead
Sir Antonio’s story is one of resilience, service, and vision. From overcoming early adversity to advocating for educational reform, he continues to shine as a role model, not only to his students at North Georgetown Primary but also to young Guyanese across the country.
This passionate teacher, youth mentor, and community leader enjoys guiding rather than dictating and recognises the importance of inspiring instead of passing judgment.
According to him, with all that is happening in Guyana today, Guyanese should take a moment to look at their children and envision a future that they deserve.
Finally, the open-minded teacher expressed hope that the people of Guyana, especially the elders and those expected to offer guidance, will look beyond the old narratives that are centred on race and recognise that the future generation deserves both freedom and opportunity, regardless of who provides it.
