At 27 years old, Victoria Najab of Houston Estate, East Bank Demerara, stands as a shining example of hard work and dedication that reignited a childhood dream. Today, she is celebrated as the Best Law Student of the University of Guyana, a title she wears with both pride and humility. But her journey toward becoming one of the country’s most promising young legal minds began long before she entered a lecture room.
From childhood, Victoria was known for challenging opinions and questioning authority, not out of defiance, but out of a deep desire to uncover the truth. Her Common Entrance report card even revealed her early ambition: a wish to study law so she could debate and explore different perspectives. Though she later forgot that childhood goal, life had its way of steering her back to it.
Victoria’s academic journey has always been marked by exceptional achievement. As a student, she earned the CSEC Regional Award for Best Student in Business Studies in the Caribbean in 2015, emerged as Guyana’s Top CSEC performer with 21 Grade Ones, and secured six Merit List awards. Yet, behind every accolade were teachers, mentors, and family members who helped shape her path. She fondly remembers her mentors Sir Chandra of ABC Academy, the late headmaster who believed in discipline and excellence; Miss Ingrid Fung, the highly respected English educator; and her parents, whose unwavering support gave her the freedom to dream without limits.
Life took her into the world of business, but it was that immersion that reminded her of the law’s importance. Navigating ministries, courts, and government agencies made her realize she had been operating within systems she didn’t yet understand. It was this awakening seeing how deeply law influences business, governance, and daily life that reignited her passion.
Her experience pursuing law at the University of Guyana was, as she describes it, “very easy-going.” The programme’s practical approach, supported by industry professionals and flexible scheduling, made it ideal for working students like her. But the journey was not without challenges. Balancing health, work, and studies especially during exams often pushed her to the limit. Still, Victoria’s insatiable curiosity and determination drove her forward. Even when overwhelmed, she insisted on producing work she could be proud of.
When the news came that she was the Best Law Student, the moment was deeply humbling. For her, the achievement symbolized not just personal success but the significance of everyone who stood by her. “Support most definitely,” she said when asked what contributed most to her achievement. “It really does take a whole village.” That village, her family, friends, mentors, colleagues, and even her religious support system played vital roles physically, emotionally, financially, and mentally.
Victoria learned the importance of listening to her body, resting when necessary, and re-centering when life felt overwhelming. She also faced the common challenges of student life, financial pressure, time management, and health concerns, yet she navigated them with intention and discipline, preparing herself for the next phase at Hugh Wooding Law School.
To her, the title of Best Law Student means she is on the right path, even as she acknowledges the vastness of the legal field. She hopes to contribute boldly to Guyana’s legal landscape by exploring underdeveloped areas of law such as corporate, taxation, land, and estates, areas she believes hold great potential for impactful legal advancement.
Guided by the motto of her alma mater, Queen’s College, Fidelis, Ubique, Utilis (Faithful and Useful Everywhere) Victoria sees herself committed to serving meaningfully in whatever capacity she steps into. Over the next 5–10 years, she envisions a future where she is “healthier, wealthier, and happier,” continuing to grow in her profession and in life.
Her message to students who are struggling but striving is simple yet powerful: “Align yourself with the right people, keep trying, and if you need help with something, just ask somebody big.”
