By Italy Ton-Chung
Born and raised in Bartica and now residing in Georgetown, 18-year-old Alyann Adolphus is carving out a path defined by discipline, entrepreneurship and academic excellence. Her story reflects the ambition of many young Guyanese striving for financial independence while managing the demands of school, sport and business.
Alyann grew up in a household led by her mother, grandmother and sister—an environment that shaped her drive and determination.
“I grew up in Bartica, living with my mother, grandmother and sister. My upbringing in a strong, women-led household shaped my work ethic and determination,” she told News Room.
Her entrepreneurial journey began in 2022 after she completed a cake-decorating course during the summer holidays. Upon returning to school after the pandemic, she made her first cake for her best friend’s mother and later began selling cake squares to classmates. Encouragement from peers played a key role in her decision to formalise the venture.
“A close friend encouraged me to start a social media page. On October 25, 2022, I launched Bossy Aesthetic Cakes & Treats,” she recalled.
As demand increased, her ambitions grew, and she began to see her business as more than a dessert brand.
“As the business grew, I wanted to expand beyond cakes into a full food brand offering baked foods, cooked meals and cake tools,” she said. This vision led to a major milestone. “On October 25, 2025, we relaunched as Oven Deluxe.”
Alongside her business, Alyann maintained an exceptional academic record. In 2024, she wrote sixteen CSEC subjects and earned eleven Grade Ones, four Grade Twos and one Grade Three, all while balancing basketball, household responsibilities and customer orders.
“My success came from sacrifice, prioritising tasks, strong scheduling and a supportive network,” she said.
Her performance earned her several top honours, including Salutatorian, Best All-Round Student, Best Student in Principles of Business and Best Student in Food, Nutrition and Health, as well as a regional merit placement.
“My goal wasn’t to be valedictorian. It was to earn straight Ones, but I exceeded expectations,” she noted.
The road to success was not without setbacks. Balancing sport and studies required difficult decisions.
“I paused basketball practice in December to focus on academics,” she said. “I also temporarily stopped taking orders during the May to June exam period.”
Technical Drawing proved to be one of her greatest challenges.
“I had moments when I wanted to give up, especially with my technical subjects, which were difficult at first. I reminded myself that I had already invested two years into them. I pushed through and ended up earning full profiles.”
Support from her family remained central throughout her journey.
“My mum and family were constant motivators, supporting me emotionally, spiritually and practically,” she said.
One lesson continues to guide her: “Don’t wait for the big money. Use the little you have and take the risk. It’s okay to be afraid. Turn that fear into fire and give it your all.”
Alyann has also distinguished herself in sports. She was named Female MVP in the YBG 5v5 Basketball Series and secured eighth place on the 2025 CAPE Unit 1 Pure Mathematics national merit list. She also placed eighth on the 2024 Regional Merit List for Food, Nutrition and Health, becoming one of only two Guyanese students to achieve this.
She believes her experiences mirror those of many young people striving for independence.
“My story matters because I represent many young people from humble backgrounds striving for financial independence while managing school, sports and business,” she said. “Not everyone will see your vision or understand your goals. Use negativity as motivation to work harder.”
Looking ahead, her focus remains on growth and sustainability.
“My goals for Oven Deluxe include growing our social media reach, increasing sales enough to pay myself a salary and becoming a recognised, respected national brand,” she said.
Despite the pressures of juggling multiple responsibilities, Alyann remains grounded in her purpose.
“No dream is ever too big,” she said. “If you work hard and believe, what is meant for you will be yours.”
For Alyann Adolphus, persistence and purpose continue to define her journey—offering a powerful example of what young people can achieve through commitment, faith and self-belief.
The post Bartica teen pursues business while balancing school and basketball appeared first on News Room Guyana.
