BY: ANTONIO DEY | HGP NIGHTLY NEWS |
Carrissa Houston was admitted to practice as an Attorney-at-Law before the High Courts of Guyana on Friday, October 17, 2025.
In an exclusive interview with Nightly News, the attorney, who hails from the community of Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, shared that her interest in law began in childhood.
Houston, who attended Plaisance Nursery and St Gabriel’s Primary School, recounted her desire to mediate conflicts among friends and others in her community.
“I always wanted to be the voice for the voiceless. Since primary school, I have often intervened in matters that didn’t concern me because I couldn’t stand by while my friends faced challenges. Sometimes, my involvement led to personal consequences,” she affirmed.
The former St Stanislaus’ College student explained that as she matured, she understood that pursuing a career in law required licensing and the responsibility of speaking the truth. “I am happy that I can represent those who cannot represent themselves,” she added.
Despite the misconceptions and stigmatisations towards communities such as Plaisance, Houston did not allow those narratives to deter her from achieving her childhood dream.
During her admission speech, Carrissa thanked Mr Mayo Robertson, another attorney, for his support while she pursued her legal education and for presenting her petition before the High Court.
“My journey has been insightful, nerve-wracking, exciting, and at times daunting. I faced many challenges, including the longing to be with my family, but their love from afar fuelled my determination. Today, I proudly stand as Carrissa Anna Makayla Houston, Attorney-at-Law,” she remarked.
Carrissa cited her favourite Bible verse, 1 John 4:4, which constantly reminded her, “Greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world.” She expressed gratitude for this guiding principle in her life, acknowledging her faith as a source of comfort and strength.
While studying in her second year at the University of Guyana, the 25-year-old began working as a legal assistant.
Despite her employer’s understanding of her academic commitments, balancing school and work was intricate, the determined young woman recounted.
CARRISSA HOUSTON – ATTORNEY AT LAW
At the Hugh Wooding Law School, she also took on part-time duties with The Robertson Law Firm and even found time to engage in sewing, which helped her manage her finances.
“I learnt much about my strengths and weaknesses through this journey. I owe my gratitude to my village, who always believed in and supported me,” she reflected.
Carrissa acknowledged her parents, Gavin and Carla Houston, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices.
“Even when funds were tight, your unwavering love has always remained. Thank you for being the wind beneath my wings and for your relentless support of my education.”
She remembered her father encouraging her to focus on her studies without worrying about finances, assuring her that they would figure things out.
“It was less than a week before registration was due for my second year when my father continued to reassure me, even though I started to worry. Thankfully, God opened doors for us, and the rest is history.”
The young lawyer also gave credit to church leaders and Plaisance Seventh Day Adventists, who she said consistently provided spiritual guidance when at times she felt discouraged.
Carrissa also thanked her older brother, Gaven Houston, a certified aeronautical engineer, for his support and shared excitement about her achievement. She acknowledged her little sister, Serah, for taking care of family matters while she focused on her studies.
Gratitude flowed towards her “bonus parents” in Trinidad, Pastor Onesi La Fleur and Mrs Lucrisha La Fleur, for treating her as family and providing a home away from home.
She mentioned her late grandfather, George Houston, who always encouraged her, and her grandmother, Rena, for their prayers and steadfast support. Carrissa expressed appreciation for her extended family, friends, and mentors who contributed to her success along the way.
She concluded by stating that as she begins her legal career, she will continue to be modest, respect the rule of law, and serve the public with integrity.
Carrissa Houston was administered her oath as an Attorney at Law on Friday October 17, 2025.
