4 days ago
Celebrating the legacy of Mrs Sarmah or "Mummy" to her pupils: a guiding light in education
Shameena Sarmah, right, with her best friends and colleagues from the last three decades, from left, Nadeera Bhugwandass (principal) and Shona Singh.
Image: Supplied
Shameena Sarmah, a teacher at Isnembe Secondary, recently retired after 31 years. A former pupil, Dr Niksha Rajaram, who is now based in Germany, pays tribute to her.
AS THE month of May drew to a close at Isnembe Secondary School, the air was tinged with both celebration and a touch of sadness. This year, we said goodbye to a pillar of our school community — the beloved Mrs Shameena Sarmah — who retired after an extraordinary 31 year career in education.
Her departure marks the end of a deeply meaningful chapter in the life of the school and in the lives of those lucky enough to be taught by her.
Mrs Sarmah's story is not just one of dedication to teaching, but of personal perseverance and inspiration. Before stepping into the classroom, she was a full-time housewife, a devoted mother and partner. But her aspirations didn't end there. With quiet determination, she pursued higher education later in life, earning her qualifications and proving that it's never too late to follow your dreams.
Her journey from homemaker to highly-respected educator makes her a role-model for young women everywhere — a testament to strength, resilience, and the power of reinvention.
Shameena Sarmah signed out for the last time on May 30.
Image: Supplied
Born in Chatsworth, Mrs Sarmah married Mr Tukal Sarmah and raised two daughters, while balancing her studies and her growing passion for teaching. She would go on to dedicate her professional life to Isnembe Secondary, where she taught English, technology, and Economic and Management Sciences with depth, warmth, and a motherly touch that endeared her to generations of pupils.
I had the privilege of being one of those students from 2001 to 2008. During those years, Mrs Sarmah wasn't just my form teacher — she was a safe place, a guiding hand, and a nurturing presence. We affectionately called her 'Mummy,' and the name suited her perfectly.
She stood by us fiercely and lovingly, never letting a child feel unseen or unheard. Her classroom was a sanctuary of calm in the often-chaotic world of was never one to raise her voice; or command respect through fear. Her strength was quieter, deeper — built on kindness, fairness, and genuine care. Even those children who struggled felt capable under her gentle guidance. She believed in us when we didn't yet believe in ourselves.
Now a grandmother to four, Mrs Sarmah continues to nurture and care with that same unwavering tenderness. When she's not spending time with her family, you'll find her tending to her beloved roses — flowers that, like her, bloom with grace and resilience.I echo the sentiments of the principal, the SGB, staff and pupils of Isnembe Secondary when I say, she will be missed dearly.
But her legacy of motherhood, mentorship, and empowerment will live on in every child she encouraged, every young woman she inspired, and every life she touched.
Thank you, Mrs Sarmah. Thank you for being more than a teacher. Thank you for being our 'Mummy,' our guide, and our example of what it means to lead with love.
THE POST
