Rihyad Ally – a beacon of excellence at Aurora Secondary School

By Raywattie Deonarine

In the bustling corridors of the Aurora Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two, one name resounds as the epitome of academic brilliance. It is that of Rihyad Ally, an exceptional 17-year-old student who has secured 16 subjects (10 Grade Ones and 6 Grade Twos) at the recent Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.
Born and raised in the Pomona Housing Scheme community of Region Two, Ally’s consistent progress in academics has earned him a place at the forefront of the school’s achievements, and has made him popular among peers and educators alike. He is not just a top performer, but a testament to the power of dedication and innate talent.
His journey towards excellence began in the embrace of a family deeply rooted in education. His parents – Valinie Mahadeo and Reshad Ally – both teachers and stalwarts in their own right, have instilled in him an early reverence for learning and a profound respect for knowledge.

“If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always ‘No’. If you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place.”
These words by Nora Roberts have resonated deeply with the young man, thus propelling him to embrace challenges head-on.
Remarkably, academic brilliance seems to be a hereditary trait within the Ally household. Rihyad’s brother Ziyaad, an exceptional student himself from his earliest days in nursery school, emerged as the top performer at the National Grade Six Assessment examination of 2022 with an outstanding performance that catapulted him to the pinnacle of success when he secured the top spot in Region Two.

Asked about his remarkable achievements, Rihyad Ally remains a beacon of humility, grounded therein despite consistently excelling and earning top ranking within his educational institution. He maintains a simple and unassuming demeanour, and his success is not merely defined by his grades, but also by his inherent modesty and genuine passion for knowledge.
“I am very elated, and I give credit to my parents and teachers of the Aurora Secondary School…they are the ones who guided me through my success, and I’m very happy,” Rihyad Ally shared with a modest smile when asked about his accomplishments. His words, though few, resonate deeply, revealing a profound sense of gratitude and dedication towards his studies.
Beyond the accolades and certificates, it’s his genuine enthusiasm for learning that sets him apart.
His teachers not only laud his academic progress, but his unwavering commitment to helping fellow students. Often found at the forefront of study groups and tutoring sessions, Ally embodies the spirit of camaraderie and support within the school community, and has been described as not just an individual excelling in solitude, but a catalyst for collective success.

“My teachers’ direction and guidance helped to navigate me through the challenges that I faced over the years at Aurora Secondary School. My deepest appreciation to the Headteacher and staff of the Aurora Secondary School for all that you have done. It is said that a teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and heals a heart,” Rihyad Ally has said.
Outside of the academic sphere, he is an avid reader with a penchant for literature. His love for books transcends the confines of textbooks and reflects a holistic approach to learning. It is said that whether delving into complex mathematical equations or exploring the depths of literary classics, Rihyad’s thirst for knowledge knows no bounds.
Ally’s journey isn’t merely about academic excellence; it’s a testament to resilience, diligence, and the unwavering support of a family deeply invested in education. His story inspires not just students, but everyone witnessing his remarkable ascent. His message is simple yet profound: dedication, humility, and an unyielding love for learning are the keystones to achieving one’s dreams.
He shared a quote from Malcolm X, the famous American human rights activist, who once said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”