The Riverside Angels
Representing culture, country and pride in identity
The Riverside Angels are an Indigenous dance group on a mission to preserve Amerindian and Guyanese Culture (Delano Williams photo)
Sunday, September 01, 2024
Remembering Dave Martins
THE inevitable, which we all must face, is death, and as Dave Martins himself had predicted in one of his songs, when his time came he would put down his roti and go to heaven and say, “Woh happenin’ dey?”. Lots have already been said about Dave Martins since his recent passing. Many suggestions have already been made regarding things that should be done to have him remembered for generations to come. I would be lacking in my duty not to pay tribute to someone who called me “Friend” if I did not also contribute.
In a previous article a few years ago in which I featured Dave Martins, I received a “Thank you” note from him which reads in part, “Lovely reflection...thanks my friend... stay well.” Dave Martins was always generous in
his salutations to others, be they friends, acquaintances or even strangers. While we were not “Drinking buddies,” if you know what I mean, Dave and I shared a mutual love and respect for each other over the years. Whenever we met, we would always find a mutual topic of a pleasant nature to be the topic of a gyaff. Dave sent me the following greet-
ings on one of my more recent birthdays. “Happy Birthday, padna. Celebrate and give thanks for an extraordinary life. Have a great day.” That greeting from Dave really warmed my heart.
Dave lived a great life. His leadership of the Tradewinds -- a musical band which he and some friends founded in Canada
many years ago -- brought a distinctive sound of music, and one can recall the same approach was made by the great American bandleader Glenn Miller, who worked hard to establish a special ‘sound’ in the music he played. Dave Martins was also focused on the sound, the music itself, and the messages in the lyrics. For example, his composition “Boyhood Days” is somewhat of a history lesson about life in British Guiana and some of the joyful experiences he and other youngsters experienced growing up in a colony of Britain in faraway South America. Most of us would say that being in the company of Dave Martins was always a pleasant experience. Even when the issue under discussion was somewhat unpleasant, Dave would add a dash of humour in making his comment. Many years ago, while he was still residing in the Cayman Islands, I conversed with him while on a visit there. Trying to emphasise how his many fans in his homeland were longing to see him in person and attend a consert of his, he pointed out, “But Ah can’t just turn up and say, Ah deh!” During that period, his good friend and booking agent, if you will, Freddie Abdool, was regularly under pressure to have Dave come to Guyana and perform as often as possible for his many dedicated fans here in the motherland, and whenever he did, he and
the Tradewinds always played to packed audiences. Their music was pulsating and blew you away into a happy land of fantasy. However, Dave Martins had a few other interests beyond music. His fingers which were so talented on the guitar, were also competent in furniture making. Those fingers were also happy to get dirty in planting trees and other gardening pursuits. It can safely be said that Dave Martins was a “rounded Person” with many interests beyond music.
As an adult, Dave, by his actions, also showed that he cared deeply about the welfare of young people and was a mentor and role model to many of them. He led by example, and many youngsters want to be like him when they grow up.
Some ways to remember Dave Martins
At this time, many Guyanese are making an array of suggestions as to how Dave Martins should be remembered. So far, all of those suggestions have merit. One is a statue or life-sized portrait of the great man being mounted at the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown. Nonetheless, many more suggestions are being made. A Guyanese journalist can also be commissioned to write Martins’ biography.
The Guyana Postal Service can also consider printing Christmas postage stamps with his image on them, and made available during the 2024 Christmas season. In that way, he will be further remembered not only here in Guyana by Guyanese, but globally as we post Christmas cards and various other items which require postage stamps, to places near and far. Be it also known that Stamp Collectors are based all around the globe, ‘Dave Martins stamps’ will certainly be sought after. Among international personalities who are avid stamp collectors, is Pope Francis in Rome. The Ministry of Education might also consider a “Dave Martins Essay-writing competition” for Primary and for Secondary schools on the topic: “Which is your favourite Dave Martins song, and why?” Many decades ago, as a primary school student, I submitted an essay of mine for a national schools Essay-writing competition, and emerged winner in the Primary Division. To a great degree, that led to my interest in journalism.
The late, great Dave Martins (Photo courtesy of Francis Quamina Farrier)
The Riverside Angels
By Shaniya Harding
YOU may not know their name, but you’ve likely seen them around. The Riverside Angels are a cultural dance group whose captivating rhythmic performances have wowed Guyana for almost a decade.
Founded by a group of sisters from the West Bank of Demerara, the now-popular ensemble didn’t begin as an Indigenous dance group but had its roots in modern dance. Today, they draw inspiration from other Indigenous dancers to curate their own style, representing their heritage and Guyana on the world stage. This is something the girls say they’re proud to do, as much as they’re proud to be Guyanese.
From West Bank to world stage
Seventeen-year-old Inezi Emmanuel, like her sisters, has been dancing since childhood. Speaking to the Pepperpot Magazine, she shared that the Riverside Angels group today is different from how it started. As she stated, “Riverside Angels wasn’t originally known as an Amerindian dance group. It was a modern dance group with members from different races. When everyone grew up and decided to separate into different dance groups, we decided to keep the name Riverside Angels, and transform it into a heritage dance group.”
Leader and choreographer of the Angels, 22-yearold Elizabeth Davis, says that
one of the reasons the group continues to thrive today is because of the bond between the sisters. She explained that every performance, every move, brings the team closer together, and connects them a little bit more to their culture. As she stated, “It’s really excellent, because I’m surrounded by my sisters. There are no strangers to me or my sisters. The bond we have together makes me want to push as one. Being part of this cultural group makes me even more proud of my heritage.”
Elizabeth says that dancing has brought them countless new opportunities, making them the go-to group for cultural displays. One of the biggest and certainly most memorable moments in the Angels’ career was their trip to Qatar. This was a major accomplishment for the sisters, and the proudest moment of their lives to represent their heritage and country.
As Elizabeth stated, “The place was amazing; we got to be on a plane for the very first time and to travel with my sisters, because I always wanted to explore beyond Guyana. We went very far, and I was grateful for that.”
Amerindian Culture is Guyanese Culture
Twenty-one-year-old Leahna Emmanuel says that the sisters’ love of dance is rooted in their community. Coming from the community of Pouderoyen, on the West Bank of Demerara, the sisters say they were encouraged to
Representing culture, country and pride in identity
express themselves through dance. Over time, they became familiar with different genres of music.
As she stated, “Growing up in a community that played a lot of music, we always loved bouncing and moving to all of these beats. I remember in our preschool, we had to perform for our own graduation. We had teachers who taught us these modern dances.”
As the girls got older, however, they began developing their own style, listening to the lyrics of Amerindian songs, and studying Indigenous dances, creating a style of their own. As Leahna shared, “After we entered pri-
mary and secondary school, we started learning many different movements from various teachers, because we used to take part in Mashramani competitions, Emancipation competitions, and other cultural activities. After the Riverside Angel Dance Group came together, we started combining styles. We began to listen to the words and create our own style.”
A unique fusion
Although their rise to notoriety was heavily based on their Indigenous dance moves, group member, 21-year-old Reahna Baird
says that the Angels seek to do more than just indigenous dance moves. She explained that they are still building on traditional dances, saying, “I would say my dance group doesn’t fully do Amerindian dance movements because we’re still learning every day. We observe and learn from other indigenous dance groups, and we see the authentic movements coming from their communities.”
Proud of culture, country and identity
Reahna further added that they aim to capture creativity from different as-
pects of cultures and types of dances present in Guyana. The Riverside Angels are a group that represents Guyana through one of our many races, bringing to the forefront that, above all else, we are Guyanese and should be proud of who we are. As Reahna stated, “We try not to copy their movements but to be creative with our own. It’s a blessing from God to be one of the most popular dance groups in Guyana. We’re so grateful for being special dancers representing our culture and country.”
The five members of the dance Group ‘Riverside Angels’. (Delano Williams photos)
The dancers performing at a recent
The group, alongside their mother, Pearla Larson
Plant-based products for hair and beard debuts at Favour’s Hair Therapy
At this hydroponic farm, innovation and nature merge to reduce the importation of vegetables in Guyana
WHEN Falana Fraser established Favour’s Hair Therapy, it was out of love due to her son’s hair condition. Today, it has become a thriving small business empowering her to realise her true potential with her own haircare and beard products.
The products include hair oil, hair pomade, beard oil, beard wash and conditioner, edge balm, shampoo and conditioner, hair mist, beard and hair tools.
VICTORIA Greens Hydroponic Farm is a local company with foreign investors from the United States of America (USA) and Colombia, that has developed a state-of-the-art greenhouse producing wholesome, organic vegetables with the ‘farm-to-table’ concept.
Senior Sales Manager of Victoria Greens Hydroponic Farm, Roland Beckles-Lamazon told the Pepperpot Magazine that their company is the best and most revolutionary hydroponic farm located at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), Agriculture Road, Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara.
According to her selfnamed business, Favour’s Hair Therapy, “promote(s) healthy and strong growth for all hair types”. It is a small business that started in the kitchen, and it had a trial period before the products were launched.
Fraser is originally from Uitvlugt but resides at Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara. She is married and has a three-year-old son.
She explained that after the birth of her child, she noticed that he had issues with hair growth, and parts of his head were very patchy with no hair, and she wanted to change that.
He reported that their greenhouse is a hydroponic farm where innovation and nature merge to produce soil-free crops in a very controlled environment. Beckles-Lamazon explained that hydroponics is a method that eliminates the need for traditional soil by substituting it with alternative materials to support plant roots.
He added that this allows crops to be cultivated directly in a nutrient-rich water solution. While there are various approaches to designing hydroponic systems, the fundamental elements remain consistent.
Fraser led herself into detailed research, and after gaining knowledge, she experimented with some ingredients and made a hair oil from aloe, coconut oil and onion.
Beckles-Lamazon stated that they have utilised nature, technology, and innovation to manipulate the growth process to produce healthy, wholesome, chemical-free crops.
She began massaging the home-made oil into her son’s hair/scalp, and within a short time, she noticed a difference: his bald spots were replaced with new hair growth, and soon he had a full head of hair which could be held in a ponytail.
Victoria Greens, which comes under the Seal Group Agriculture company headquartered in the city, was reg-
The transformation of her son’s once-patchy hair was replaced by full hair growth within three to four months, and today, his hair remains healthy and full.
Fraser told the Pepperpot Magazine that the positive results in her child’s hair process motivated her to make more of the plantbased hair oil and she began sharing it among family members.
The demand was great within her family tree, and one day, her father encouraged her to utilise her newfound skill to establish a small business to bring in an income to her home.
As such, in 2022, she launched her products in which the hair oil infused
with rosemary oil became the best seller. She branded her products and went about to become a registered busi-
is used in the production of the products, including essential oils.
ness.
Fraser’s hair oil was then vetted as safe for use by the relevant authorities, certified and has its own label and packaging to market the products. She explained that the name “Favour” is a powerful Bible name which suited her small business.
Fraser added that as a
istered and established a year ago following a successful meeting with President Irfaan Ali and the investors.
Beckles-Lamazon pointed out that Victoria Greens produces more than 40 different varieties of crops with the goal of reducing the importation of certain vegetables to Guyana by 25 percent.
He added that they are looking to produce more crops locally to meet the demand and provide a healthier, fresher option.
Beckles-Lamazon told the Pepperpot Magazine that their produce is on the shelves of all leading supermarkets such as Mattai’s and Bounty, and they have had a good response so far since
small business, she operates from the confines of her home but has pick-up locations in the city and on the West Coast Demerara.
the local input has made a difference in the crops they produce.
He disclosed that Victoria Greens employs all Guyanese, with about 10 full-time staffers who are given equal opportunities to elevate themselves.
The Senior Sales Manager of Victoria Greens noted that President Irfaan Ali had a tour of their facility a few weeks ago, and he was impressed by their operations at Mon Repos.
Beckles-Lamazon stated that Victoria Greens provides three types of services, which include Green House, supermarkets where their packaged crops are delivered, restaurants/retailers,
The entrepreneur related that her products are all plant-based and give a therapeutic feeling when used and everything from plants
registered with the authorities is an avenue for networking and marketing the products, and it is beneficial to have all your prod -
afloat.
She added that her vision is to produce top-quality, effective products and she would like to become num-
She reported that scores of people were genuinely interested in the products and even encouraged her to produce more. She was also complimented on her attractive packaging.
with three new farms to grow more crops such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers and other non-traditional crops.
Fraser stated that although all the manufacturing takes place at her home, she would someday like to have a separate facility for that purpose, along with a store to sell and display her products.
He stated that Victoria Greens hydroponic farm is a state-of-the-art facility spanning an impressive 2,500 square metres. The farm is dedicated to producing a vibrant array of leafy green vegetables, aromatic herbs, juicy strawberries, edible flowers and crisp cucumbers.
“With an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, we are proud to provide year-round, fresh and healthy produce,” he said.
and wholesalers who deliver their products, and they also do home-delivery for individuals.
As a small business owner, Fraser says of all her products, three have been FDA-approved and she is working to get all certified but is registered with Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), GCCI and, GSMA and the Small Business Bureau. She related that being
ucts certified, labelled, and well-packaged.
He revealed that Victoria Greens grows herbs such as kale, sweet basil, spearmint, celery, parsley, coriander, dill, lettuce, vegetables, leafy greens, fresh fragrant herbs and edible flowers.
The mother of one stated that she is constantly inspired by customers and their reviews and testimonials of the products, and being a small business isn’t ‘all bed of roses’. It requires hard work, dedication, consistency and money to stay
Beckles-Lamazon added that they will continue to introduce newer crops, and they have on the local market micro greens, which is ideal for salads or garnish.
He reported that they grow a variety of lettuce, five main types and other vegetables that we used to import on a large-scale basis.
ber one in haircare and beard oils.
The representative of Victoria Greens said, “We will always produce newer crops to tantalise the palette with crisp, fresh produce to meet the growing demand locally, since we have a support base,”.
“For the very first time, this year, I had a booth at the Emancipation Day celebrations in the National Park and I was pleased with the response I attracted through my products, which I am using as a motivating factor to keep going,” she said.
Beckles-Lamazon disclosed that they are hoping to expand their operations
“I advertise my small business via social media, that is, Facebook and Tik Tok, and I often have to produce daily content to promote my products and I can say I have a few loyal customers. I supply a few salons, spas and barber shops, the Guyana Shop and Coss Cutter Supermarket with my products in which sales have been fair,” she said.
With the aim of reducing our local import bill by 25 percent by 2025, NAREI has launched a hydroponic project in collaboration with a privately-owned company, Victoria Greens.
The nursery has a capacity to produce 100,000 crops, and 25,000 crops are currently being grown.
Fraser is the holder of a degree in Public Management from the University of Guyana and is certified in law from London University.
The facility is utilising a nutrient film technique, meaning the crops use a nutrient solution to grow, cutting the need for fertilisers.
Being self-employed is quite empowering and she feels that there is no restraint in becoming successful in business through networking, marketing and consistency.
Fraser always represents her brand, Favour’s Hair Therapy, with her custom-made shirts and other products, which she proudly wears and display.
Additionally, the environment is pest-free, making the crops 100 per cent organic. The government is integrating these cutting-edge technologies into the local agricultural system, to increase food production, achieve food security and cut the more than US$5 billion import bill by the Caribbean region.
Senior Sales Manager, Roland Beckles-Lamazon with one of the many crops they grow locally at Victoria Greens (Shaniece Bamfield photo)
Their version of locally grown pak choi at Victoria Greens (Shaniece Bamfield photo)
Victoria Greens hydroponic farm
The shade house
Falana Fraser, entrepreneur.
Favour’s Hair Therapy plant-based products (Yohan Savory photos)
Falana Fraser and her products.
Infuzedgy and Kenthings going places
By Michel Outridge
AN enterprising, marketable couple, Michael Sampson and Kenita Roberts will not settle for less; as such, they have established their own small businesses while holding down full-time jobs as young professionals.
They are owners of Infuzedgy, a small business birthed from their homes that caters to events and other public gatherings via their cocktail and mocktail mixes, which come in several flavours as independent packages for both alcohol and non-alcoholic purposes.
The Tropical Sting flavour option is exactly what you need and is an on-thego in cocktail. It comes in a plastic container with a lid, cups with ice, a mini-size bottle of alcohol, a tin of juice and a container with grenadine (syrup) and the
directions for mixing it up for maximum satisfaction.
According to Sampson, the idea of having their own cocktail/mocktail mixes was conceptualised following their date nights and get-togethers when they would mix juices, and alcohol among other ingredients.
They collectively curated the mixes and developed their own cocktail and mocktails, creating their own small business called Infuzedgy, and they would be at parties and other events to market their products. The cocktails have nine flavours, with names such as Sweet Vibes, Caribbean Love, and Tropical Sting, among others.
Infuzedgy was established on February 19 this year, and as a relatively new business with two pickup spots, the couple is hoping to have a fixed location to market and display their products.
Sampson related that it is a business birthed out of love, and when they had cocktail dates, they mixed everything.
The creative duo would then sit and savour the taste and flavours and wanted to share that experience with others, but for a small price.
He related that the alcohol varies from locally sourced and imported, and
Sampson is 24 years old, and he is a software developer for a private company. And before the business was established, they had a sampling session where family and friends encouraged them to make it into a small venture.
Sampson explained that they made minor adjustments to make it right as it relates to the cocktails and other ingredients were also added to take it to another level.
The couple takes orders a day ahead to prepare the packages for customers with two pickup spots in the city.
“At nights, we would go beyond regular working hours to fulfil orders on cocktails and mocktails for customers and see it through to delivery or pickups,” Sampson said.
the price per package starts from $2,000 to $2,500, depending on the options selected for purchase.
In addition, Sampson said they would go to events and sell their cocktails/ mocktails by the gallons, with also a non-alcoholic option for people who do not consume alcohol.
He reported that they support each other’s small businesses and it is a collective effort as a couple, but they have their own identities and brands in their businesses.
Kenita Roberts with an Infuzedgy product
Michael Sampson, co-owner of Infuzedgy, displaying his product
A bracelet made by Kenita Roberts
Kenita Roberts with her brand of jewels, Kenthings
A sample of the personalised cocktails offered by Infuzedgy.
Phoenix Park
A village built by collaboration, co-operation and community
SOME 58 years ago, the people and leaders of Guyana came together to pioneer a new community under an entirely novel idea: the self-help principle. The plan nearly six decades ago was to have men and women come together to build a village with their hands, quite literally from the very ground up.
Just a few men and women, most of whom were public servants, ventured to begin the community of Phoenix Park in 1966. Found on the West Bank of Demerara, Phoenix Park continues to give rise to a diverse, successful group of people. Today, the village stands as a reminder of what collaboration, dedication, and genuine co-operation can accomplish.
A Walk in ‘The Park’
One of the most striking things about Phoenix Park, and something bound to surprise newcomers, is the streets of the community. Unlike traditional straight streets, Phoenix Park takes a different approach with its circular layout. The intricate community is one circle within another, adding to its uniqueness and individuality. It is a beautiful and peaceful community; in essence, most of the villagers
say that life in the residential area is quiet and easygoing. With supermarkets, schools, healthcare, and countless other conveniences right around the corner, life in the village is like ‘a walk in the park’. But building the community was anything but.
Marva Joseph-Grandison was among the young mothers who were part of the then-budding village of Phoenix Park. The brave men and women who were part of the self-help initiative went into building the community with simply a goal in their hearts and a vision in mind.
Marva saw the building of the community as an opportunity to gain a home of her own and a fresh start for her children. As Marva stated, “This was a place for people who had jobs and did not have houses; this was an opportunity for them to own their homes.”
Sharing a bit about the development of the community, Marva stated, “It’s the first housing scheme that was under the old self-help programme. And that was 50-something years ago. I’m not quite sure how much, but I know it’s somewhere around 57 years or so.” Recounting her experience in the early days of Phoenix Park, she further added, “Because, at the time you did
self-help, you used to get a little oil and butter and a little flour and those kinds of things.”
The now 73-year-old Justice of the Peace was born and raised in the West Bank of Demerara, settling in Phoenix Park after having been raised in Middle Street
She has called Phoenix Park home for three decades; in those years, she has pioneered new paths for herself as well as the community.
Stating why she wanted to come to the community in the first place, Marva shared, “I came to Phoenix Park because I needed a home at the time. I had my children and so on, and I was living upstairs at my mom’s house, and I wanted my own. And I came here and rented here for $40 a month. Well, from living a year or two, I bought it for $35,000.”
Marva describes the village of Phoenix Park as the perfect balance between the warm, welcoming nature of the countryside and the
peaceful, well-kept nature of residential communities.
As Marva states, “When I came here, I bought this place. I had cows, goats, sheep, fowls, duck, turkey, you name it, I had it. And I planted up all here; you see flowers. I planted here where all there was kitchen garden.”
Communities are essential; they create a sense of belonging, a place that we call home, create families, and find one within our neighbours. The people of Phoenix Park have a unique admiration for the village that they helped build.
However, communities are made up of more than good streets, developed community centres, and good leadership; villages are also
about people. Marva understood this and has done more than her fair share of helping the community over the years.
Over the years, the friendly and charismatic Marva became a community leader. First, as a community councillor and then leader of the region’s women’s affairs committee, this is where she made the biggest impact, reaching as many women going through abuse as possible.
As she stated, “Because I was a community councillor, I became the chairperson for the women’s affairs in the entire region three. I used to go to the different regions, places like Region 1 and Santa Mission. I would go out to look at women’s rights; I would hold rallies and workshops. I would have resource personnel come to give lectures.”
Marva’s message was always focused on gender-based violence and teaching women about their rights and the fact that they have to speak out to be heard. As she stated, “My message was always about abuse. There were a lot of women who went through abuse; some of them did not do anything, but some would fight back and try to represent themselves.”
Marva still practises as a justice of the peace and a commissioner of oaths and affidavits, a job she worked while caring for seven children. She has done more than her part in the development of the community and Guyana on a larger scale, building communities through co-operation and waging wars on gender-based violence by being heard.
Pouderoyen.
Marva Joseph-Grandison (Japheth Savory Photo)
Nurturing the Next Generation
Looking at the community’s responsibility to nurture creativity
By Shaniya Harding.
A PLAYFUL yet captivating dance, a piece of art that is wildly engaging. Children are creative from the very beginning; their natural talents are sometimes hard to hide and even harder to nurture. However, as the creative community of the country grows, and Guyana sees the rise of more creatives and artists, perhaps it is time to start nurturing creativity, and seeing talent as an option for a career.
This is how Earl Bagot of Phoenix Park sees it. Earl, a long-time villager of the community, says he sees the young men and women of his community overflowing with potential, but it takes a village to hone that potential into something much greater.
REFLECTING ON THE COMMUNITY
Earl fell in love with Phoenix Park when he was still a child. After coming to the community at seven, Earl’s family was among the first to call the village home,
community, because it was built through self-help. The reason why I’m passionate is that this is one of first house was built under the self-help programme. When we came here, we had water and roads. It was really a model house, and it was something to be proud of.”
Reflecting on the development of the community, Earl says the village has evolved from a close-knit agricultural community to a more residential area. Because of the way it was developed, Phoenix Park was once home to a vibrant agricultural presence. Although small-scale, most, if not all of the villagers had a kitchen garden or livestock of some sort. Today, plants can be found in the various flowering plants scattered throughout the village.
NURTURING YOUNG TALENT
Phoenix Park has seen a variety of changes over the years, with new roads, initiatives, and people. However, the biggest change, in Earl’s opinion, is the relationship between the community’s
stood and used to listen to the older folks and learn from them. There was much more cooperativeness.”
As a community elder himself, Earl sees significance in reigniting the relationship with the youths of the community. Looking back, he recounted the hours he would spend interacting with his parents, grandparents, and almost any adult. He sees these interactions as invaluablem and the first place he learned some of life’s most important lessons. He would like to see this become the norm once again. As he stated, “I want to see the young people come to us. They have phones now, but they can learn a lot from the older people, and we might even learn some things too.”
Phoenix Park is a small community with a few hundred people, making it difficult not to be connected in some way or another. Although the traditions of fireside storytelling are no longer alive, the village still retains a strong sense of community and togetherness; at the heart of this togetherness are the talented young peo-
having one of the first selfhelp homes completed in the village.
As he stated, “I came here when I was seven years old. I am very passionate about this
older and younger generations. Sharing his thoughts, he stated, “There used to be much more togetherness. Youths used to listen to elders. As a youth, I under-
ple. As Earl explains, “This village has a lot of young people, and they all have different talents. We have young women who dance, and a lot of the young men in
this village would be good at sports or modelling.”
Earl believes that all they need to tap into this undiscovered potential is a little bit of guidance. As he stated, “We need more initiatives for the young people. We need more things for the creative people.” The country is currently seeing a steady rise in the number of passionate professionals, but Earl says creativity is an entirely new sector to explore. “I would like to see the young people be able to pursue their creative talents - dance,
modelling, music, and things like that. I think it would be good for the whole country,” he said.
Earl is a proud Guyanese and would like to see more of his nation’s young people make it to the international stage with their creativity. As he stated, “It could start with community programmes. I remember this village had football and dancing competitions. We need incentives for the young people now. We could get them a trophy or stipend, something to get them involved.”
The community is not perfect, says Earl, but the village has made great strides. They face challenges like any other community, with occasional water and electricity issues. But as a community that was built by the people, little by little, Phoenix Park is a model of what collaboration could achieve. Today, Earl and his fellow villagers are looking towards developing the next step in their community: nurturing the next generation.
Earl Bagot (Japheth Savory Photos)
From Backyard to Business
By Shaniya Harding.
NATURE is all around us, and in Guyana, its presence can be felt and seen. As children, we have all had the blissful experience of picking a neighbour’s mangoes or visiting a fruit tree on our way home from school. Praised for its countless health benefits, Guyana’s fruits and vegetables have always been a part of our diet and way of life, with some rare and indigenous to the country.
One Phoenix Park man, however, has decided to take the opportunity to develop a business. Gathering a bold mix of fruits from across the region, Marvin Mitchell has developed his own brand of fruit juices. Inspired by the nutrients that could be gathered from nature, Marvin says his juice is a unique blend of everything natural and everything Guyanese.
Having been a part of the community since he was a child, Marvin had what most would call the ‘countryside’ upbringing. Phoenix Park, at the time, was a community overflowing with greenery and a variety of trees; today it is less so. As he stated, “My childhood in this community was good. I came here when I was very small, and I never left. I remember we, as young people, used to talk and spend time with the old people; we had more togetherness. We have more plants and trees in the village, more fruits and so on.”
Phoenix Park’s natural juice entrepreneur
He describes his life in the community as challenging at times, but the people of Phoenix Park are what makes the community what it is: A warm, welcoming, and supportive place. As Marvin stated, “Life in the community is kind of hard when it comes to work. But I like the village; this community has plenty of good people; they make the community nice.”
This community gave rise to his business. While Marvin was struggling to find a new job, his biggest supporters came from his community. Before he started his now-growing business, Marvin and his wife were a part of their own entrepreneurial venture. As he explained, “Before I started doing this, me and my wife had a little business. She does catering, and I would help her sell.”
But this was simply not enough to provide for a family, said Marvin. He began seeking new ways to support his household. One day, he was struck by inspiration; seeking to create new opportunities, Marvin made a blend of a few fruits he had around his home, creating something new. As he stated, “I used to help my wife with selling food, but that was not enough. I have children to take care of. And then I decided that I know how to make juice, and I have the fruits. So, I made a few bottles and then that turned into more and so on.”
He explained that a big part of his love for natural
juice comes from his personal experiences. Marvin stated that he began leading a more natural lifestyle in an attempt to lead a healthier life. As he stated, “I started making some juice for myself, with soursop and sea moss. I started using it at first for me, to be healthier.”
What helps Marvin’s business stand out is its uniqueness, with a wide variety of juices; each bottle offers a different blend and taste. According to Marvin, his understanding and knowledge of the various fruits came from a personal pursuit for his own health. As he explained to the Pepperpot Magazine, “When I was searching for help in different fruits, it led me from one thing to another. Many people from all around would tell me about different things.”
Apart from it being an economic venture, Marvin also sees his various juices as a healthier option. After years spent learning about the countless natural gifts Guyana has to offer, Marvin says he urges others to incorporate more natural ingredients into their diet. As he stated, “People would tell me about so many fruits and vegetables we have in Guyana, and how they can help. These are things we have in our backyards but do not use,” he said. “I like to make my juice different; there are not too many people who use the different things I use. I go out and find them.”
Marvin says his busi -
ness has continued to grow, seeing more customers daily as people seek him out to find their favourite hard-to-find fruits to have them made into an all-natural refreshing drink. Most days, Marvin
can be found distributing his various blends around Region Three, a well-known ‘Juice-man’ from Phoenix Park. As more options become available in the realm of processed foods, it is important to people like Marvin that natural substitutes are always an option. So, the next time you are in your backyard, at the supermarket, or in the community of Phoenix Park, remember to pick something natural.
Marvin Mitchell, also known as ‘Juice Man’ (Japheth Savory Photo)
The misguiding perception of illustrated literature, commonly viewed as comic books, etc.
My godparents who raised me always allowed me to read the Sunday pull-outof Flash Gordon, Mandrake etc.that was designed for the young, which the seniors enjoyed too.At the time, I was quite unaware of the psychological messages rendered, with me as a non-Euro colony child, adoring heroes who were people from another world and super beings in many respects. But I did cultivate a habit of reading that would, in time, liberate me to look at other heroes, though none of them could be found in my usual Sunday comic strip pages.
Most lil-boy artists in my youth participated in getting rewards from other students for artwork done during Art classes that was then on the weekly timetable. I think that was usually Wednesday afternoons. Reading was in the morning. As I grew up, I learnt many things about using comic and heroic illustrations from as far back as Ancient Khemet to the Middle Ages in Europe. But most of all, and important to this genre of expression is the fact that most so-called comic books are not comical. This mode of literature can influence both positively and negatively, based on how the subject is handled and how the characters are presented; thus, it requires the individual mental freedom to judge, evaluate and tell the story, which must be first your storyfrom conception, considering the balance of good and adverse, and the facts, even if reinterpreted must reflect the human story, when creating the opposites.
Today, the Comic book industry-2024(either with heroes or caricatures)has, without warning, leaptboundaries into reality, reflecting characterswith mental characteristics that one could have gone through schooland still not have heard of in detail. Another wake-up call: Today the geography, the people and the landscape have to be right, or at least convincing. If you’re, for instance, travelling in your story from Georgetown into the interior, get the landscape passable because just as there are applauding readers, there are driven, angry and would-be critics who are troubled also.
The young folks have a name for them: HATERS! But don’t hold on to that. They may be looking at that angle you ignored. Can you figure out how much noise a heckler who is right can cause? They’re supposed to come and go, but if they’re grounded, they stay and make you their career piece. Luckily, and also sadly, there is not much of that capability around. Nevertheless, you must be in touch with society with all aspects of the relative world, and the space of your char-
acters, and not only what you read in that one book or article of the now, there’s always another storythat happened before that resulted in what is happening now.
Most people accept what they’re told from an explanation they haven’t explored. Thus, when they relate it, it’s hanging upside down, which can assassinate your creative credibility if applied to your storyline.
Graphic magazines have touched on every subject you can think of, some drawn as cartoons, some as fulllife graphics. In closing, I want to quote a cartoonist who did books on the Holocaust. His comic books are called ‘MAUS’ 1&2. He was asked, “Is Maus a graphic Novel?”
He responded no,“I hate that-it smacks of wrongheaded gentility. Graphics are respectable. Novels are respectable. No, Graphic Novels? Zap! Double respectability. No, they’re comics for me. So you aren’t confused by the fact that comics have to be funny, as in comical. You think that it’s a ‘co-mix of words and pictures.’ For me, I do ‘Illustrated Graphic magazines.’ For my colleagueswho’re interested in exploring some sources of this vintage magazine, try to put your hand on what I term a special edition of ‘Time Magazine-November 1, 1993’ that was given to me by a past friend and buddy, Richard Humphry.
Are we actually settling?
AFTER my last column on why we seem to be our worst critics, I began thinking that our inner critic probably makes us settle for safer options in most areas of our lives. Therefore, an equally important question is: are we all settling?
What does settling look like to you? Especially in the context of whether you think you are or aren’t.
I have heard it from clients, family, friends and enemies -- the words dripped in despair – “I am settling.”
If you’re human, it sounds familiar, and while it is mostly used to describe romantic relationships, there are many other areas in life where one can settle: all relationships, work, consumer purchases – literally anything -- as settling is just about having a limited mindset and belief in yourself.
Some may not be as obvious as others, so how do you know if you are settling?
It may make sense to start with WHY we settle, as it can be conscious or unconscious, but the root is the same – we settle because of our inner critic, because of how we view ourselves and for what we believe we deserve. ‘Why?’ is always where the story begins.
A book called “The Molecule of More” describes why settling is not always an active choice- which I think brings about hope and action of change. It discusses the way dopamine regulates pleasure and reward. As a reminder - dopamine is our pleasure hormone. If you’re feeling satisfied and motivated, dopamine is being released into your brain.
Now, the book explains that sometimes, when things get old or too routine for us, we become immune to the levels of dopamine it once released. That makes sense, right? Our dream home would make us feel overjoyed for a long time, but after a while, we lose some of our excitement as we walk down the same flight of stairs and open the same doors.
Once dreams become reality and become ordinary, our dopamine-deprived brain almost pressures us to strive for more. We absolutely can and often should, but this is not to be mistaken for the illusion of settling.
You may have one time or another, asked yourself if you are settling. If you are unsure, allow me to give my two cents of clarity.
Many different areas of life require us to compromise for the grand prize. We compromise on salaries for our
dream jobs in the hope that it will pay off in other ways; we compromise our late-night adventures to make our new partner feel respected and happy; we go to the same place often because we know most of our friends like to frequent there.
However, unhealthy settling is letting go of pieces of yourself that even the best outcome will never piece you back together again. You are settling if you compromise your needs, values, morals, hopes, dreams, and goals and if you are sacrificing yourself.
If you already have something in mind that you are worried you may be settling on, ask yourself the following:
On any given day, rather than natural joy, do you have to actively work to get excited about it? Are you a better person with it in your life? Are you truly grateful for it? OR are you only doing it because you have been told it is what you should be doing, that it’s just the next step?
If you are considering the benefits of something and the answers are so generic that it could be applied to anything or anyone- “I was bored so,” “it made it more exciting to have company,” “it gave me my own contribution to this conversation my friends are always having” etc.- then you, my friend are settling.
Before we divulge into how to stop settling, there are a few things to keep in mind. We are surrounded by an ever-changing world that often pushes us to want more. Over time, a lot of things change- and not always for the better. There is complacency, comparison to others and loss of passion that can result in feelings of unhappiness. However, sometimes, instead of replacing, things need repair, and it’s important to know the difference between them. Imperfect does not mean you are settling, and before you jump to that
conclusion, make sure you have asked yourself the important questions. For example, you may feel unsatisfied with your current job, as though you are settling, but that job probably allows you autonomy and financial security. Would that truly be settling? Instead- Are there things that can change to make you more satisfied? Are there things that can be changed that do not require you to change as a person?
In some unsure situations, the magic comes later after an appropriate amount of time; such as when a best friend becomes the love of your life. “Settling” sometimes can be just waiting for the magic. If you have exhausted all the possibilities and have still decided that you are downright settling, you are in good company and there are things that can still be done.
Examine why you believe you are settling; not what you think society deems you settling. Some people stay in a place for a long time, i.e., the comfort zone, because they are afraid to take the leap, fear of change and deathly fear of failure. Sometimes, we are lucky enough to identify that we have done this, but we feel powerless to change it. I would like you to read this next sentence twice, because I took some time to write it as clearly as possible just so you, too, can believe it.
You are not at the mercy of your past thoughts, emotions, and behaviours; these can be changed at any time. When you feel this way, you have only two options --you can accept defeat, or you can accept that you have the free will to make changes.
A good and important place to start is by reframing your whys. Let’s use the example of you wanting to own your own business, but instead are settling for something more stable (but this can work for anything).
So, you want to become an entrepreneur -- your why for settling would probably look like- “I’m lacking the business experience that may be needed,” or “I haven’t yet been inspired to know what kind of venture I would like to explore”.
Reframing the whys looks like “The business experience I’m lacking can only come with the experience.” “I don’t have to be inspired to start. I can start to become inspired.”
If you are being hard on yourself for truly settling –and I know this is easier said than done-- don’t be. It’s not always a straightforward decision – most of the time, it happens gradually. We don’t set out to settle- no one does, but as time passes, people change, situations change, and we tend to compromise ourselves. Give yourself grace for making the best decision based on the information you had at the time, but now, be grateful for your free will to change and ask yourself if you are meant for more.
ADVENT OF AMERINDIAN HERITAGE MONTH
REVISITING THE TOPIC OF MANGROVES
THIS column will again touch on Mangroves because of its importance historically, socially and economically.
In August every year, World Indigenous Peoples’ Day is commemorated worldwide under the auspices of the United Nations and its theme this year is “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact.” World Indigenous Peoples’ Day promotes and advocates the achievement of the comprehensive ideal for Indigenous Peoples wherever they live, which would obviously not uniformly apply to every country. For example, this year’s isolation and initial-contact theme would be relevant to the Andaman Islands, but not Guyana. Accordingly, the ideal’s achievement level differs from country to country, and Guyana stands out as the country with the status nearest to the ideal. Despite its extraordinary achievement, Guyana still enthusiastically commemorates World Indigenous Peoples’ Day yearly. Guyana’s achievement will unfold as we now consider Amerindian Heritage Month.
When the Dutch colonisers first visited Guyana in the 17th century, they observed that Mangroves were growing along the entire coast, in some parts so thick that they could be considered mangrove forests.
The Dutch first settled on the coast and utilised the mangrove as a convenient and easy source of wood for house building, fires for cooking, and even for making boats and rafts. Only when they had cut down large stretches of mangrove and the sea had begun to come up on the land did they understand the importance of mangroves as an effective defence against the sea and flooding. They held up to their mangrove depletion, and to avoid the threat of constant flood-
In 1995, Dr Cheddi Jagan, who had returned as President of Guyana in 1992 after being kept out of office for 28 years,designated September as Amerindian Heritage Month to promote the interests of that community, showcase its culture, and enhance its image.
We will consider Amerindian Heritage Month from three standpoints: first, the cultural heritage; second, the activities being made to bring justice to the Amerindian community; and the efforts to have Amerindians enjoy the same social amenities and economic opportunities which the people of Georgetown and the developed coastal regions enjoy; and third, the preservation and development of the Amerindian languages.
The Amerindian peoples have always had a deep connection with nature and have always been custodians of the environment and ecology. They have provided an example and guide to the rest of the nation on managing resources sustainably and surviving off the land while remaining in harmony with nature. This understanding of ecology and what is now known as “Climate Change” has been part of Amerindian culture for hundreds of years before those concepts were discovered by Western culture and given scientific analyses and terminologies. It is probably a deep understanding of the Guyanese psyche derived from our Amerindian heritage, which manifests itself in Guyana’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and maintaining Guyana as a net carbon sink.
There are other Amerindian contributions to Guyanese life as in cuisines such as pepperpot, cassava bread and other ground-provision dishes; the Amerindian style of houses with the sleeping area elevated as a protection against dangerous insects and animals; and several useful artefacts such as plaited hand fans, earthenware utensils of various types, arrows to spear fish, since nets are not known or not available and hammocks. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, when people from the coastal regions, such as individual miners and porknockers went into the interior, they adopted the Amerindian mode of life and culture to survive.
For generations, Amerindian people were kept isolated and regarded as lesser than other Guyanese, and without knowing why, their culture was despised and regarded as inferior by the dominant Western culture in its Euro-Creole form. Indian culture was also once subjected to identical prejudice, and this has caused Indians to have empathy with the plight of Amerindians. Over the last three decades, however, Amerindians have been slowly raising their status through their own efforts, mainly by being inducted into professions such as nursing, teaching and local politics, and the other Guyanese communities have been welcoming and supportive of the development of “the First People.”
ing, they began to move their settlements to the river banks towards the end of the 18th century. In 1815, when Essequibo, Demerara, and Berbice finally ceded to Britain, they were united in 1831 to form the colony of British Guiana.
The British developed their colony much faster than the Dutch. Like the Dutch, they empoldered their agricultural land and built sea defences, but it was only in the 20th century, with the growth of Ecological Studies and a deeper understanding of the environment, that the full importance of mangroves came to be grasped.
The United Nations recognised the importance of mangroves by declaring a Mangrove Day each year with a relevant motto. In this year 2024, the motto is “Mangroves matter. Safeguarding our Coastal Guardians for tomorrow”.
This process has quickened over the last decade. The national road systems have been linking the hinterland areas to the
Though this motto identifies the most important function of mangroves, that is to guard against the flooding by the sea and tidal waves and make the soil less fertile when it would have been impregnated with salt; other positives emanate from mangroves.
Mangroves provide a home for bees as well as feeding grounds since a large number of flowering plants grow among the mangroves. When hives are established in the vicinity, they provide bountiful honey supplies. Consumers much value mangrove honey.
Mangroves are a carbon sink and enhance Guyana’s efforts against climate change. They provide a livelihood for many coastal communities, one food resource being the varieties of fish that live among the mangroves. They are an ecotourism attraction with the rich biodiversity that mangrove forests offer, and the Guyana Tourism Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture are cooperating in this development. Mangrove restoration and preservation support several sustainable development goals (SDGs), to the degree that Guyana is seriously committed to achieving them.
At the recent function of unveiling the plaque at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade in commemoration of International Mangrove Day 2024, the Minister of Agriculture summarised the importance and impact of Mangroves: “Mangroves are our coastal guardians, vital to Guyana’s environmental and economic health”, he said, “they act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and surges, protecting our communities and infrastructure. With over 23,000 hectares of Mangroves, they support fisheries, livelihoods, and food security and provide habitats for diverse wildlife… Mangroves are important in sequestering carbon, enhancing efforts against climate change as outlined in Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030”.
The State has developed a 10-year National Mangrove Action Plan and an Inter-Agency Committee dedicated to promoting sustainable Mangrove management, and over 500 hectares of mangrove have been restored. Since 2010, over $1.9 billion has been invested in mangrove preservation and restoration, and regular injections of money are expected to be made as required. For example, $275 million has been allocated this year to rehabilitation initiatives in Regions Two and Five.
ADVENT OF AMERINDIAN ....
coast and to Brazil; schools and educational facilities primarily in the technical fields have been introduced or upgraded in the Amerindian villages; more Amerindians are being trained as medics, nurses and doctors and four high-grade hospitals are being constructed in the regions with full Amerindian access; billions of dollars derived from the Carbon Credit revenues, Presidential Grants, Amerindian Development Fund and ministerial programmes across several ministries have been deployed to the Amerindian villages for them to execute hundreds of developmental projects. Electricity has been made available to more than 30,000 households by the supply of solar panels; with electricity availability, the Internet has become available and the people of the hinterland have taken to it with the same alacrity as their compatriots on the coast. Most importantly, Amerindian communities have been awarded hundreds of square miles of land, which the communities occupy with ownership not only for the topsoil, but also the minerals in such land. In fact, 15% of Guyana’s land area has been awarded to the various Amerindian tribal communities. Amerindians are represented in national politics at the higher levels, and several Amerindian Ministers of Government have been there. In all of this, Guyana stands out in the world as it treats its Indigenous people very closely to the ideal.
There is one area of Amerindian development that Guyana has found very challenging, and that is the use and preservation of the Amerindian languages. Sporadic attempts have been made over the years by the Amrindian Department of the University of Guyana and one or two researchers funded by US foundations to compile dictionaries and even grammars of one or two of seven Amerindian languages. However, no sustained work was ever been done, largely because of a lack of funding. An effort should be made to preserve each of the seven languages and a lingua franca should be identified and developed. In this process, the University of Guyana’s role is vital and
SHARDA
BLACK CROWS FLYING
A woman was crying.
SHE stood at the water’s edge, her torn dress swirling around her legs, a lone figure shrouded in the shadows of the night. A foreboding silence hung over the beach as the tamed wind gently lifted the dark tresses of hair falling over her face. A pretty face it was, streaked with sand and dry tears.
God.
How, then, did evil interrupt her life?
No one had an answer.
A young girl in pain, alone, at the beach in the dead of the night.
What happened to her?
The deep, haunting look in her eyes, the ashen face and colourless lips told a story of something cold.
IT was a dark night in a small, dusty village, deep in the countryside, bordered by sugar-cane fields, a village untouched by the changing times where merciless age-old tradition still reigned. In the silence of the nights, always can be heard a woman’s cries as a man - a gladiator with steel muscles and an aggressive mind - stamped his dominance and control. At dawn, the silence as she performed her daily tasks was like an oppressive veil.
Hushed were the wind and water as something bad unfolded the night before on the sandy beach. No one heard her cries, her pleas on the deserted beach and when they were gone, a young body was left on the sand, helpless and broken.
She turned and walked back to the mangrove trees, no footprints in the sand, for late that night the pain had ebbed away like the tide, and one last tear trickled from her eyes as she took her last breath.
“How did this happen?” she cried, “They were my friends, whom I trusted to take me home.”
Tonight, that veil that had covered the blood, tears, and suffering through the times was thrown off as one woman stood in defiance. The shock as the villagers watched the smoldering embers of the fire hushed even those who blooded the oppressive rules like the soundless roar of an angry sea, the screaming winds. The woman crying softly, her lips quivering with a deep passion, blood trickling from her wounds, looked at her husband’s charred, lifeless body lying on the dusty street. Her three young children huddled close to her, too often in the embrace of violence to be shocked but still scared.
Her heart beat no more, and the coal-black eyes shed no more tears, but she was not going into the light, not now. It was not her time. She did not have to die, not that way. Not for someone who revered God and had good values. She was a classical dancer and a teacher, recognised for her talent and as an educator, it was all wrong, her death.
Tragedy, a messenger of fate, always came calling in that little village where minds and bodies are torn and bled, and most often, the woman was the victim.
Tonight, one woman changed it all; her name was Sharda.
All the media houses carried the story, and shock rippled through her community and the nation. The boys who had given her a ride home were held for questioning, but they all stated that they knew nothing.
Their story was that she had received a phone call on the
At the young age of 15, when her life, like a rose petal, was just starting to bloom, her father, a man of old-fashioned ideals and principles, decided she should get married. She had wanted so much to be given a chance to study at a high school, to broaden her horizon, so she could break the shackles that imprisoned the women of her generation, but her father wouldn’t listen to her pleas. She had lost, and a life she wasn’t ready for was forced onto her, a flower not allowed to bloom, plucked from a garden, withering in uncaring hands. Her husband, much older and more educated, used that as a tool to dominate her life, not to love or share, for to him, marriage was only a convenience. He was a habitual drinker, and so often, he would be in a bad mood. His insults that denounced her womanhood and his cruel fists made life a nightmare she couldn’t awake from. Yet in her culture, she must honour him as her God, to love him, to pray for him, to cry for him.
How can he be my God if he cannot love me?
“A new day will dawn,” she kept reassuring herself, “A new day must dawn.”
ly grieving family, who just couldn’t process the fact that she -
itual form to comfort her family and to confront her killers. They would be in attendance, she knew, amongst the huge
All her friends were there, those who were true, who had regrets. She saw their tears, heard their shocked whispers as prayers and songs eulogized her life. She stood amongst her family, holding her mother’s and father’s hands, hugging
But they were not aware of her presence. Her mother, though, seemed to sense something and whispered, “Aryana?”
He had left when she was just eight years old, and now, he was back. He had to see her. A worried look had crossed his face,
“What has become of you, Sharda?”
The family turned to look at her mother, and she broke down crying, “She’s here with us. My baby is here.”
She had smiled wryly, “Nothing, I’m okay.”
“No, you’re not. You can talk to me. I’m like a brother to you.”
The father hugged her, helping her to stay strong as the highly emotional services paid tribute to their young daughter’s life and honouring her departed soul to guide her on her final journey.
A cynical smile played on Aryana’s lips as the viewing began, and she whispered, “It’s showtime.”
He was demoted from his job just after her second son was born because his drinking habit had worsened, and life became a greater struggle. She had begun working her father’s small farmland to sustain their needs so her children wouldn’t go hungry. In the quiet, as she tilled the land, she often wondered, “Why, as a woman, am I treated in such an inhuman way? How better is he as a man, more than I am?”
She had been so happy to see him after all those years, not wanting to burden him with her problems and as they talked, her husband came home. She introduced her ‘Rakhi brother’ to him, the grandson of an old Pandit from the next village. All was well until her husband came back home later that night, drunk. The suspicious look he gave her rang warning bells in her ears, and she knew she had to hide herself to escape his cruelty.
way home and asked them to stop for someone else to pick
She raised her head slowly and stood up, looking at the heavens, a burning passion of pain and anger in her voice, “I will not come home, not until I have destroyed the monsters who took my honour and my life.”
She stretched her arms out, and from the abyss of death and darkness, she screamed, unleashing fury and agony.
“I call on dark forces to lend me the evil power to destroy those spawned from evil, and for that, I will give you my
From within a woman comes life, purity and richness that the Gods know, and she would ask of the heavens as she sat to rest under a jamoon tree, “Questions, I ask of you, Dear Lord, can you answer me?”
The sky rumbled, the water became restless, and the wind howled as she waited under
One night, two nights passed, then on the third morning, just before the break of dawn, as the high tide rushed across the sand and the wind whistled shrilly, four black crows appeared from the far horizon. She stood up, her coal-black eyes watching as the crows drew closer and closer and alighted on the mangrove trees.
The dark abyss had answered her call to fight evil
“For each new day, now,” she vowed, “stones will
A wake had been going on at her home, and friends, family and people from everywhere had been attending to express their sympathies. There was no comfort, though, to her deep-
No answers as time moved on, and she opined.
“Maybe there’s no answer because maybe a woman’s tears have to fill the rivers, and her blood must fertile the earth.”
She had watched the women of the village suffer like she did, with no one really willing to go to the depths and lengths to understand the problem, to stand in the shoes of an abused woman and feel her sufferings. On many sleepless nights, she would sit looking at her sleeping children, deeply worried that her sons would most likely grow up to be abusers and her daughter a victim as the cycle of oppression continued. Something must be done, but what and how?
On the day of Raksha Bandan when a sister tied a sacred thread on her brother’s wrist for care and protection, an answer she had long awaited called at her humble home.
It was her ‘Rakhi brother’, whom she hadn’t seen for over fifteen years!
Aruna and Preity just couldn’t stop crying. Such were their regrets for leaving her that night, but the fury burning in Aryana could not forgive them, so she threw out the fresh roses they brought for her. There were loud gasps from those close enough to see what happened, and the two friends stepped back, scared. Her killers were also approaching her coffin bearing red roses, and she called upon her emissaries of the dark world, “It’s time.”
“You look happy today, woman,” he said, “when you look at that man.”
“He’s my brother, and I haven’t seen him in years. I tied rakhi on his hand.”
He grabbed her around the neck, his eyes wild with anger.
“I don’t believe it. Something is going on.”
She struggled and managed to pull away from him, gasping for breath.
The sight of the black crows, their loud cawing and wild fluttering wings, created a frightening scene as they flew circles around her coffin, then among the mourners who scattered to avoid the vicious birds. The birds were gone as fast as they came, but left in their wake were fear and shock. Never had anything of that nature happened at a funeral service. What could have triggered something so ominous was the burning question.
Aryana watched her killers hurriedly leave and smiled, cold fury in her eyes, “It’s just the beginning.”
To be continued…
“A man in my house is the worst thing you can do!” he swore loudly, knocking over the kitchen table. The children awoke, her little daughter crying, and she ran to grab them and move, but it was too late. He blocked their escape, a cutlass in his hand, dark rage on his face. She was trapped in the room with the children, fear welling in her heart, almost suffocating her.
“Is this how it ends for me, hacked to pieces as my children watch?”
As he advanced on her, her eldest son shouted and threw his cricket bat.
“Use this mommy!”
She grabbed the bat, warding off the cutlass, not too good, for he possessed the strength and fear that had weakened her. She felt a burning in her arm and shoulder, knowing she was bleeding, but she steadied her mind, not to go down. The boys kept grabbing him around the waist, to slow him, giving her a chance to escape from the room. She screamed for the children to run out of the house, and as he swung the cutlass, she grabbed the lighted lamp from the table and threw it at him. The last thing she saw as she ran out the door was his shirt on fire. She closed the door, putting all her strength against it, knowing one thing: if he exited that door, she was dead. If not tonight, another night or day. As he shouted and kicked the door, she screamed to the dark sky, “I’ve had enough. You will give me strength. You will give me strength!”
Even the earth seemed to shudder at her anguished screams, a woman whose pain and suffering were close to its breaking point.
The door did not budge.
Now, as she looked down at his burnt remains, she felt no sorrow but deep regrets it had to end this way. The veil of oppression had burnt with him, and a new day would now dawn for her.
Self-defence just might save your life
UNFORTUNATELY, we live in a world where women and children are now actively choosing to fight back, and I mean that literally. The act of self-defence is using force or “violence” to protect oneself or another person from imminent harm. If the victim believes that they or someone might be in danger or near death—they can choose to protect themselves with self-defence. The act of self-defence can be used as a tool or means of protection against violence. Sometimes, we feel so uneasy as we walk the streets or when we use public transportation. There is a constant fear there, and the lack of defensive tactics adds to our existing fears. As such, self-defence classes can be motivating and empowering. It is not only for the streets but can also be for any environment where violence or abuse is present. It’s not just about the defence strategies, but it can also allow you to think critically about violence prevention or how to deal with fear.
Financial abuse needs more awareness
WHEN you are defining the term “abuse”, do you ever consider financial abuse in those definitions? Often, when I listen to people discuss abuse, I rarely ever hear them mention the category of financial abuse. That can be for a lot of different reasons. Perhaps people are unfamiliar that a person can be financially abused, or they simply do not accept this as a type of abuse. Whatever the reason may be, there are many studies and statistics to prove that people all across the world are being financially abused. For me, the first thing that comes to mind is when the elderly have their money or assets taken away from them without their consent. As with most cases of abuse, financial abuse also entails a struggle or imbalance of power.
In self-defence classes, it is usually highlighted that human beings do not ask to be assaulted. Yes, you might make poor judgments about behaviour sometimes, but that still does not invite assault. Self-defence should never be used as a tool to cast judgement onto the victims. The way in which someone decides to defend themselves is how they think they can survive.
The Peace Over Violence programme stressed that a good self-defence class does not tell people what they should or should not do. Instead, options and alternatives are provided, and it’s up to the victims to choose. In self-defence, it is taught that it is okay to put yourself first. The world needs to be a safer, better place for people to live in. Everyone, including men who are most likely to be offenders, also need to be able to be held accountable. It is sad that in this day and age, women are still being assaulted, and they have to take drastic measures such as Self-defenceClasses to defend themselves. Many will argue that it’s up to the aggressors to be held accountable. That is true, but I still believe that we cannot sit around and wait for people not to be aggressors or perpetrators.
Financial abuse can be overt or very unnoticeable. It is a form of family violence. Universally, I do not think enough people speak about the damaging effects financial abuse has on the victims. This is quite a powerful method that is used to “trap” victims by making them stay in an abusive relationship. Studies have shown that in 99% of the domestic violence cases that occur, financial abuse is also present. Contrary to the belief that only impoverished people can be victims of financial abuse, this form of abuse does not only affect a specific target population. In most cases, financial abuse occurs in romantic relationships where an abusive partner restricts and limits their partner’s access or ability to spend money. The “allowances” will be fewer and fewer as months go by, and the victim is often forbidden from being employed.
Prevention is always better than a cure. In self-defence classes, moves such as the hammer strike, elbow strike, escape from bear hugs, and groin kicks are all considered defences that can be used. There are four A’s to consider: attitude, awareness, assessment of a situation and action. The physical defences are just as important as the mental ones. In self-defence, you also need to boost your confidence and believe in yourself enough to know that you have what it takes to defend yourself. You have to be able to verbalise your boundaries firmly. There is no excuse whatsoever to condone the abuse, harassment, or violence against another human being. However, if you are being abused or harassed, the only other way out of that is to also use “force” to escape. While martial arts classes exist in some communities across Guyana, direct self-defence classes for women relating to abuse are lacking. There were a few classes, but they were one-day or one-off exercises.
The abuser may use manipulation, fear tactics or even physical abuse to force these ideologies onto the victim if they do not comply. Some cases are often so extreme that even access to purchase food or visit a doctor is affected. Most times, victims are unable to leave these abusive relationships because of their lack of finances, assets or even education on financial independence and literacy. Most times, when victims leave their homes they’re either forced into a shelter or they return to their abusive partner where homelessness is not a concern. This is a key issue that needs further attention on all levels. Money gives one a sense of security and stability. Abusers use it as a tactic to control victims. If victims don’t abide by or obey them, they lose that sense of security or stability by receiving limited or no money.
As such, I am here publicly advocating for groups and organisations to take up the charge of executing more self-defence classes in Guyana. I hope that these classes are holistic training and not just a class that showcases physical strength and techniques. For women and even men who feel fearful walking the streets or even living in their own homes—I hope this column gives you the strength to learn self-defence skills. Even if you can’t access classes, the internet is filled with useful tools and information.
This creates an unhealthy dependency. Financial abuse may also come in the form of leaving people in debt unknowingly, stealing the victim’s property, false insurance claims, evading child support or refusing to pay bills. It is not black and white. There are many ways that people can become victims of financial abuse. As such, I am pleading with you all to consider spreading awareness of what financial abuse is and let victims realise that they are indeed victims. Money is used as a powerful tool of control and oppression, and I hope that financial abuse in all of its forms is addressed effectively and efficiently at all levels.
Infuzedgy and Kenthings...
FROM PAGE V
Kenthings
Meanwhile, Kenita Roberts, whose small business is Kenthings, showcases her talent in hand-made jewels.
She told the Pepperpot Magazine that she makes jewellery mostly from wires and beads, and the pieces include earrings, bracelets, anklets, arm cuffs, rings, waist beads, and nose cuffs.
Roberts added that she had always had a passion for jewel-making and after experimenting and getting the hang of it, she wanted to do more.
As a self-taught jewel-maker, the 24-year-old aspires to become well-known locally, and she is really proud of
her achievements, since she started her jewel business from her home while she was still in high school.
After completing high school, Roberts enrolled for a two-month jewel-making course at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Campus in Trinidad and Tobago.
She was successful, and she returned home to practise her trade, which developed into a hobby, and she decided to earn from it.
The small business, Kenthings, is home-based for now until a store can materialise, but Roberts is very active in promoting her products through expos, events and social platforms.
Roberts teaches jewel-making at the Carnegie Compound, Craft Production and also holds a full-time job as an
Environmental Consultant at Environment Solutions Inc., a privately-owned company.
“When we both started our small businesses, it was fun and interesting, and we will continue to partner even in businesses to make it work because we fully support each other as a couple and in business,” she said.
Roberts added that they advertise their small businesses via social media, and they would like to have a place to call their own to display and sell their products. They are working towards that goal.
Having their own concept and creating a place for their businesses is of great importance, and both Sampson and Roberts have vowed their commitment towards realising that dream.
Arm cuffs showcased by Kenita Roberts
Some earrings made by Kenita Roberts
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
The appetite grows by eating. FRANCOIS RABELAIS (1494? c.1553) Gargantua
STUDY SUCCESS
Dear Student, Welcome dear reading friend. You can be helped to understand the main information contained in a text by filling in a table. Its filling in will be easier if you consider the text globally at first, look for specific points in different places afterward, and then reorganise the information. Your note-taking skills will also come into
SEPTEMBER 01, 2024
play as the exercise will cause you to note down the main points only and leave out unimportant details. Be wise.
Love you.
THE PASSAGE
1. Reading for comprehension and answering questions
Reading for comprehension is the art of reading, understanding, and remembering what you read in any given piece of writing. To do this, it is advised that you read the passage as fast as possible and get involved with it by underlining important lines or parts of it.
With understanding a passage, you get help in many ways: to answer questions on it, to reproduce the same passage in your own words, to understand the main idea of the passage or the tone or mood of the author, and to eventually build your foundation for high-level thinking in different subject areas.
Read the passage below and answer questions following it on the basis of what is implied or stated. But something had held Phoenix Jackson very still. The deep lines in her face went into a fierce and different radiation. Without warning, she had seen with her own eyes a flashing nickel fall out of the man’s pocket onto the ground… Phoenix heard the dogs fighting. She even heard a gunshot. But she was slowly bending forward by that time, further and further forward, the lids stretched down over her eyes, as if she were doing this in her sleep. Her chin was lowered almost to her knees. The yellow palm of her hand came out from the fold of her apron. Her fingers slid down and along the ground under the piece of money with the grace and care they would have in lifting an egg from under a setting hen. Then she slowly straightened up, she stood erect, and the nickel was in her apron pocket. A bird flew by. Her lips moved, “God watching me the whole time. I come to stealing.”
Questions on the Passage
1. What can cause deep lines on a female’s face according to your experience?
2. What in the passage caused lines on Phoenix’s face to “go into a fierce and different radiation”?
3. How old could Phoenix have been? What could her financial state have been like? Give reasons for your answer.
4. What things did Phoenix pay no heed to? Why?
5. The writer gives a charming, detailed description of Phoenix’s
gathering of the piece of money. What charm was put into it?
6. State two things about phoenix’s religious belief. Support what you said.
7. From whose point of view was the story told? How do you know?
8. Who and what does Phoenix encounter on her journey?
The Passage
2. Reading for the main idea
The main idea of a paragraph is what the author says (his message) about the topic. The main idea is often expressed directly or at times implied. It is useful to know how to find main ideas because it allows the reader to understand and think critically about what he is reading, no matter his chosen profession.
Now read the upcoming passage and respond to the questions below on the main idea.
Wounded soldiers in the Civil War probably thought they were dreaming when they looked up to see a tiny woman in an officer’s uniform tending to their wounds. It was no dream. Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, the first woman surgeon in the U.S. Army, had come boldly to the front lines of battle to serve her country, and no one could stop her.
When Dr. Walker had first tried to join the Union Army as a medical officer she was turned away, but she went to work anyway, as an unpaid volunteer. When the army finally accepted her, she began wearing men’s pants and under her skirt, a very practical choice for the battlefield, but one which shocked many of the soldiers around her. Later in the war, she served as a spy, daring to cross enemy lines to gain secret information. After the war, Dr. Walker was awarded the nation’s highest military honour, the Congressional Medal of Honour. She remains the only woman ever to have received this award.
Something to Do
1. The last sentence in the first paragraph supports the general idea that Dr. Walker was (A) courageous and strong-willed. (B) reckless and silly.
(C) unqualified and dangerous. (D) warm and motherly.
2. What idea does Dr. Walker’s decision to work as an unpaid volunteer support?
(A) She was wealthy.
(B) She was foolish.
(C) She was determined.
(D) She was shy.
3. Dr. Walker’s decision to wear pants on the battlefield supports which idea?
(A) She cared too much about clothes.
(B) She did what was practical.
(C) She only wanted to shock people.
(D) She did not respect the male officers.
4. What is the main idea of the selection?
Dr. Walker was
(A) a surgeon in the U.S. Army.
(B) a brave, determined, and unconventional hero.
(C) a woman who had skills but lacked self-discipline.
(D) a woman who was an excellent doctor.
5. The description of Dr. Walker in paragraph one serves all of the following purposes EXCEPT
(A) Set the historical context.
(B) describe Dr. Walker’s background.
(C) set the tone of the selection.
(D) introduce the concept that Dr. Walker was unusual.
Natural teeth for life
SOMETIMES hearing what is simply obvious indeed represents a vital anecdote. Good oral hygiene and regular dental care are important throughout your life, no matter your age. By practising good oral hygiene at home and visiting your dentist regularly, you will prevent dental problems and save time and money.
Today, older adults are keeping their natural teeth longer because of scientific developments and the preventive emphasis in dentistry. This improvement is seen in the results of a survey released by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. They showed that among persons aged 55 to 65, the rate of toothlessness dropped 62 percent since 1967.
Thorough daily brushing and flossing of your natural teeth are essential to keep them in good condition – especially as you age. Plaque, the sticky, colourless layer of bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease (periodontal disease), can build up quickly on the teeth of older adults, particularly when they neglect oral hygiene. This can increase your risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease.
A few simple steps can help you maintain good oral health throughout your life. The key to a healthy mouth is to obey the Rule of Thoroughness. It is now confirmed that simply brushing three times a day is not at all sufficient. The modern rule stipulates that you brush each tooth for 1 minute every 24 hours, including flossing (cleaning between your teeth). Be sure to see your dentist regularly for exams and professional teeth cleaning.
Tooth decay is not just a child’s problem. Adults of all ages can have cavities, too. The causes of tooth decay are the same for everyone, regardless of age. Decay results when the bacteria in plaque feed on the carbohydrates (sugar and starch) in our diet to produce acids that can cause cavities. The nature of the decay problem does change somewhat as people grow older. Adults are more likely to have decay around older fillings, and because many adults grew up without the benefits of fluoride, they may have many more fillings. Decay of the tooth root is also common among older adults. Root caries (decay) occur when the gums recede, exposing the softer root surface, which decays more easily than tooth enamel.
Tooth decay is also promoted by dry mouth. This condition – called xerostomia – occurs when the supply of saliva is greatly reduced. It can be caused by many types of medications (such as anti-histamines, anti-hypertensives, and anti-depressants) or radiation therapy to the head or neck. Saliva is needed to lubricate the mouth, wash foods away and neutralize the acids produced by plaque. Dry mouth can lead to rampant tooth decay if allowed to continue. If you think you have this problem, be sure to discuss it with your dentist or physician. They might recommend artificial saliva and fluoride products to help prevent decay.
Gum disease – periodontal disease – often progresses slowly, without pain, over a long period. This is one reason why it is common among older adults. The longer the disease goes undetected and uncontrolled, the more damage it causes to gums and other supporting tissues. Although periodontal disease is caused by plaque, other factors can increase the risk or severity of the condition. These include food left between the teeth, smoking, smokeless (spit) tobacco use, badly aligned teeth, ill-fitting bridges or partial dentures, poor diets and systemic diseases such as anaemia.
Although periodontal disease is common, it can be controlled or arrested. In its early stages, it can be reversed. Treatment of advanced cases may require surgery. Look for these warning signs and see your dentist if you notice any of them: bleeding gums when you brush; red, tender or swollen gums; gums that have pulled away from teeth; plus between your teeth and gums when the gums are pressed; loose teeth or teeth that are moving apart; any change in your bite; any change in the fit of partial dentures; constant bad breath or bad taste.
