Recover Guyana pioneering environmental education and conservation through the ENGAGE Project
Sunday, December 15, 2024
WHEN Falana Fraser es tablished Favour’s Hair Therapy, it was out of love due to her son’s hair condi tion. 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.
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 De merara. 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.
THE Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club, located in the compound of the school canteen in Mocha, East Bank Demerara, will be host-
ing their annual Christmas party for children on December 21, and a lively programme is planned.
tions in the community.
She related that she, along with another community activist, has since arranged everything for the get-together of the children, who are members of the club.
Cave told the Pepperpot Magazine that she will be preparing a meal of raisin rice and vegetable rice with baked chicken.
A donation was received for the purchase of the chicken, and an overseas-based Guyanese is assisting with festive candies, which are expected to be shipped into the country shortly.
detailed research, and af ter gaining knowledge, she experimented with some ingredients and made a hair oil from aloe, coconut oil and onion.
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.
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.
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.
within her family tree, and one day, her father encour aged her to utilise her new found skill to establish a small business to bring in an income to her home.
launched her products in which the hair oil infused
by the relevant authorities, and everything from plants
home but has pick-up loca tions in the city and on the
registered with the authorities is an avenue for networking and marketing the products, and it is benefi -
afloat. She added that her vision is to produce top-quality, effective products and she would like to become num-
Myrlene Cave, a volunteer of the said youth club, which was established by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on November 14, 2014, by Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken and other
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.
She reported that the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club celebrated its 10th anniversary this year; however, no event was held due to constraints, but they will ensure the Christmas party for the children becomes a reality.
Cave said a packed programme is planned for the Christmas party for children of Mocha Arcadia, and it includes the singing of carols, reciting poems, and the children sharing their adventures since joining the club, among other activities.
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
ber one in haircare and beard oils.
“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.
staffers, explained that it was created to provide a safe place for children to gather and benefit from training and educational programmes. In addition, it was a GPF initiative to foster better public and law enforcement rela -
in becoming successful in business through networking, marketing and consistency.
She explained that the children will be provided with lunch and a party bag of goodies, as well as beverages. Some parents have pitched in to lend a helping
Fraser always represents her brand, Favour’s Hair Therapy, with her custom-made shirts and other products, which she proudly wears and display.
GUYANA’S creative arts scene is still new and developing, but among the many budding artists, a few are paving the way with their exceptional accomplishments. Keisha Edwards and her brand, Shasha Designs, have become synonymous with fashion excellence. As the first Guyanese fashion designer to have ever received the prestigious Chevening Scholarship, Keisha’s journey has been one of growth, learning, and inspiration. With her new perspectives, skills, and talents, she returns to Guyana with one goal: to transform the fashion industry as we know it.
Keisha’s time as a Chevening Scholar offered more than just academic opportunities. The experience was a cultural and personal awakening, teaching her a number of skills she hopes to bring back to Guyana. Speaking in an exclusive with Pepperpot Magazine, Keisha shared, “The Chevening Scholarship allowed me the amazing opportunity of studying and working in a global city. I was able to focus on my studies while enjoying the UK experience—the ballet, opera, musicals, fashion shows, museums, art galleries—everything about culture, which is one of my passions. There were so many different options of entertainment that inspired and provoked my thoughts for future plans.”
The experience was not without its challenges, however. The differences between Guyana and the United Kingdom are countless, but the most notable to Keisha was the time difference, with the two nations having a four-hour gap between them. “When everyone in the UK is up, everyone in Guyana is sleeping, so maintaining relationships and connections with family and friends took a lot of planning. The other was seasonal depression due to lack of sunlight and the depressing weather. I found myself battling waves of sadness, and then a friend recommended taking vitamin D, and all was well again,” she said.
Keisha’s work has always reflected the cultural diversity of Guyana, with some of her biggest events drawing inspiration from Guyana’s rich culture and folklore. However, Keisha’s exposure to different cultures deepened her understanding of international creative industries and societal structures. “When I pursued my bachelor’s degree in Fashion and Design in Trinidad and Tobago, one of the most striking cultural shocks was the immense pride the people had in their country, culture, and creative industry. There was a deep appreciation for the arts, and the emphasis placed on their value was incredibly motivating. It highlighted how much can be achieved when a society truly values and invests in its creative sector,” she said. Sharing the countless impactful experiences she has had, Keisha noted that a number of small cultural differences were drastically different to those of Guyana. As she stated, the general perspective on the older generation was a small difference but an immense culture shock for her. “My experience in the Global North brought different, equally impactful realisations. One of the most surprising and heartwarming cultural shocks was the independence afforded to elderly and disabled persons. In Guyana, these groups often feel invisible, but in London, I saw a system designed to empower them. The city’s infrastructure—including elevators, ramps, and accessible public transportation—ensures that they can manage their daily lives independently, without relying heavily on family,” said Keisha.
While Keisha found inspiration in the UK, surrounded by a diverse team of people from all across the world, she gained what she called an eye-opening experience. As she stated, “Social interactions in the UK were quite different from what I was accustomed to in Guyana. At university, my class was incredibly diverse, with students from all over the world. This exposure to different cultures and perspectives was eye-opening and allowed me to gain a broader understanding
of global issues, particularly within the fashion industry. It was enriching to engage with such a wide variety of ideas and experiences, which pushed me to think more critically and creatively.”
Despite the cultural differences and highlights, Keisha found herself valuing Guyanese warmth and connection even more, realising how special her homeland’s sense of community is. “But outside of school, things were less welcoming. In Guyana, there’s such a strong sense of community—people are naturally friendly, and it’s normal to say ‘good morning,’ ‘excuse me,’ or ‘sorry.’ In London, I found people to be a lot more reserved. No one really greets you or makes those little polite gestures, which felt a bit cold at times. But when you get past all of that ice, it is not so bad,” she further added.
Having made history as the first Guyanese fashion designer to receive the Chevening Scholarship, Keisha recognises the weight of her achievement. Recounting her emotions on the achievement, she stated that although surprised, she was happy to have brought Guyana’s name to the international stage. “I was elated, proud, and deeply overwhelmed with emotion. Being the first is an incredible honour, but it can also feel isolating, as it comes with significant expectations on a broader scale. To be honest, I never thought Chevening was an option for someone like me, especially since I’ve often seen individuals from more traditional career paths selected,” she said.
Now with new perspectives, Keisha shared that she sees the many opportunities for improvement that exist in Guyana’s creative scene. “This experience through the scholarship rein-
forced the importance of visibility in highlighting the many opportunities that exist. In Guyana, when people hear ‘fashion designer,’ they immediately think of garment construction—and while that’s important, it’s just one small part of a much larger industry. Globally, the concept of fashion or fashion technology is transforming the way the industry operates,” she said.
Advice for Guyanese creatives
Keisha’s advice to other Guyanese creatives is as visionary as it is practical: be committed to your craft. “My advice to other Guyanese creatives is simple: the sky is the limit. Open your minds to the endless possibilities that exist, and never give up on yourself or your dreams.” She further added, “Success in any creative field requires consistency, relentless effort, and a commitment to practising your craft. Talent alone is not enough— you must dedicate yourself to continuous improvement.”
As a champion of education and self-development, Keisha urges other creatives to be open to learning new things in the ever-changing landscape of creative arts. “Be open to learning. The creative world is constantly evolving, and staying adaptable is the only way to grow. Whether it’s new techniques, emerging trends, or innovative technologies, knowledge will always be your greatest tool.” She further added that self-confidence is also pivotal, sharing, “Most importantly, believe in yourself and the value of your work. The journey won’t always be easy, but your persistence will pave the way for others to follow and help build a thriving creative community in Guyana.”
Slated to be back in Guyana soon, Keisha is determined to make an impact on the arts and fashion industry despite its infancy. When asked about her plans and future role in Guyana’s fashion industry, Keisha shared that developing the sector is the first step, but it must be a collective one. “This is a difficult question because, technically, Guyana does not yet have a fully developed fashion or arts industry. It exists more as a sector within the broader creative industry, an area that itself struggles to be recognised as an industry. The burden of building such a foundation often falls on individuals, but no single person can carry that weight alone,” she said.
Keisha shared that for a true industry to emerge, there must be systemic change. The population needs to recognise and support creative fields as viable contributors to the economy. She further added, “Through mentorship, fashion events, workshops, and platforms for creatives, Keisha is working to create visibility and opportunities. Her ultimate goal is to foster an ecosystem where creativity thrives and contributes meaningfully to Guyana’s growth.”
Keisha Edwards is not just shaping fashion; she’s redefining how Guyana views its creative potential.
By Shaniya Harding
THIS year, a new wave of delight, dedication, and community spirit will be brought to Leopold Street. One of the most well-known streets in Georgetown, Leopold Street, has a population of about 400 people and this year, however, the community members are hosting their first-ever Christmas tree light-up. The people behind the initiative say that the event is more than Christmas and tradition; it is about bringing just a bit of the Christmas spirit to the children of Leopold Street.
The Werk-En-Rust Transformational Youth Group
The first of its kind, the event began with the community’s children at its core. The Werk-En-Rust Transformation Project Youth Group started more than four years ago when Malika Boxhill saw the need to develop a programme for the hundreds of children who were suddenly out of school. The Charlotte Street native came to Leopold Street with her husband more than 25 years ago. Malika said she soon fell in love with the community. “I’ve lived on Leopold Street for over 25 years since moving from Charlotte Street. Over the years, I’ve been working with the community and its children. I also run a small business where I cater for weddings, birthdays, and small events,” said Malika.
The past two and a half decades that Malika has spent in the community have made for a rollercoaster of an experience. From hearing rumours about the rough-and-tumble community to learning about the village she would come to love, Malika says that Leopold is a fun-loving and close-knit community. “As every community is doing its part of the challenge, Leopold Street is no different to our challenges, right? We had a period, and we had little ups and downs, you know. So we got this stereotype, that Leopold is a bad place,” Malika stated when talking about her community.
This passion for Leopold Street is what sparked the development of the Werk-En-Rust Transformation Project Youth Group. The initial idea was simple: give the children of the community something to do. Whether it was arts and crafts or maths and phonics, the idea was to teach and occupy the children of the community. As Malika shared, seeing the busy neighbourhood children made her want to do more. “Right, we started when COVID had come and the school was closed. The kids used to be in the community, running on the streets and stuff. And I see it as an initiative that, the kids running in the community, they have nowhere to go, nothing to do, let’s give them something to do,” she said.
Malika’s idea was met with immense support. She met with a few other passionate community members, and a youth group was soon started. “I talked to a friend of mine, and I said, let us do something for the kids in the community and stuff. And he said, well, it’s ok, let’s do it.” Although facing a few challenges in the past, today the Werk-En-Rust Transformational Youth Group sees 50 children learning a variety
of skills from a few of Leopold Street’s passionate professionals and teachers, who dedicate their time after school and on weekends. “We have volunteer teachers that come in. We give them a stipend and stuff. And the teacher, we do maths, English, social studies, phonics. On Saturday, we do arts and crafts.” Malika further added, “We have a sewing teacher who works with children. I also work a lot. We have some other ladies that come in and help us out teaching children how to make different crafts.”
Over the past years, the youth group has become a major part of the community, with support for families as well as notable sponsors. As Malika explains, parents, in particular, have been supportive of the initiative, with many mothers knowing it as a safe space where their children can learn something new. “When I told the parents what we were doing, they were very excited, because it gives them an opportunity that the kids would not be on the road playing anymore and running. They would be learning. A lot of children who could not read properly or who could not read or write, they are reading now and they are writing,” said Malika.
Leopold’s first Christmas Tree Light-Up
Christmas in Leopold Street is always a fun, warm, and all-around happy affair. This year, the community is planning to add a little flair to an already fun-filled Christmas with their Christmas tree light-up. As Malika stated, it is something for the children of Leopold Street to look forward to. “On Wednesday, December 18, we will be having this Christmas tree light-up. So if anyone would like to reach out to us on the day or after leading up to Christmas, we are doing a toy drive. So if anybody wants to donate anything to our youth group or our community, you can reach out to me on 6752240,” she said.
Leopold Street is like any other Guyanese community,
with the usual traditional festivities already underway. According to Malika, the season brings an atmosphere of cheer and community togetherness. “Christmas in Leopold Street, all the families come together. We have fun. We normally light our screens. And the children come out. All the children come out, and they just play right here. You know. The fathers. The sons and daughters. And all the different types of people.” Moving forward, Malika and her team hope to reshape and build on the foundation of unity the community has. “Christmas in Leopold Street will be really nice. And I’m looking forward to it, for it to get better as the years go by. And more people could come in and visit. And do a little more for the kids in the community. That’s my heart’s desire.”
By Michel Outridge
IT is safe to say Sherry Wong has gifted hands. If you experience her full-body massage, you can attest to the fact. She is a massage therapist who can make you feel like a whole new person in body, within an hour and a half.
The 48-year-old stated that she has a cozy corner at her home in Golden Grove, Diamond, East Bank Demerara, but she also does home visits upon request.
She reported that for the past 25 years, she has been practising the art of body massage, mastering the skill. She is also multi-talented, managing five different small businesses.
Wong is certified and licensed. She always admired her aunt, Joan Brown, the owner of Hair Tech International on North Road, who inspired her to become qualified in cosmetology, make-up, manicures and pedicures, and facials.
She added that she was inspired by Brown, who studied in England and returned to Guyana to open her own salon.
Wong told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is also a seamstress, blood nutritionist, and creator of her own hair products. She is a nail technician, make-up artist, and is certified in manicure, pedicure, and facial services. She collaborates with three salons: Hair Tech International, Crème De Crème, and Mudd Finn.
The massage therapist explained that she makes her own herbal face scrubs, massage oils, and hair products.
As a blood nutritionist, Wong can advise her clients on what to eat and drink to lose weight healthily. She performs all types of wellness massages in eight different forms, including massages to crack, adjust, and treat people with defects and health issues.
She pointed out that she performs colon massage and can also make adjustments to the knee, massage people who have received gunshot wounds, treat broken limbs, reduce scar tissue, and assist those afflicted by stroke.
Wong reported that she makes her own massage oils, including turmeric and ginger blends, and utilises five different types, specifically for her massages.
She told the Pepperpot Magazine that after her massage business took off, she began providing services for some important people who hold high offices, among others.
“I would like to expand, so I am taking my business to Suriname, the country where my father is from. Because I am half Dutch, half Guyanese, and fluent in the language, I can relate to the locals there. I also plan to expand my small business across the country here in Guyana,” she said.
Wong expressed her desire to bring her services, including colon lymphatic massage, to people regardless of their financial standing to provide the relief they need.
She makes her own leave-in hair conditioner and clove
mist for edge regrowth and recommends lymphatic drainage once a month to promote good health.
Wong’s small business as a massage therapist is named Healing Hands. It provides full-body massages, full facial drainage, therapeutic massages, lymphatic drainage, hair and nail care, and spine alignment.
A full-body massage costs $18,000, lasts an hour and a half, and includes a free herbal facial and a complimentary hair or beard product.
Wong explained that growing up in Guyana with her mother, she learned from her and her aunt, Joan Brown. She had her mind set on following in their footsteps to gain independence and establish her own small business to showcase her expertise.
The mother of one, a 19-year-old daughter, Sue-Ellen Wong, shared that her daughter is a beautician who has become a skilled make-up artist.
In addition, Wong provides cellulite removal with her hands and bamboo therapy to soothe muscles and provide relief for her clients.
Wong told the Pepperpot Magazine that her father, a Dutchman, was versed in massage and body rubs. Being a massage therapist is in her blood, and she can easily massage a 250-pound person with relative ease because she is an expert in the field.
As an enterprising businesswoman, Wong has invested 30 years as a seamstress and can make any outfit by just taking measurements and looking at a photo for customers. However, these days, she finds little time for sewing.
Wong also produces her very own herbal teas for day and night, which are available for sale.
By Shaniya Harding
GUYANA continues to carve a bold path on the global stage in conservation and sustainability. Home to a part of the captivating Amazon, countless waterways, and fascinating wildlife, our country is renowned for its natural beauty. Preserving this rich biodiversity is a responsibility the country has embraced with significant international agreements to safeguard our forests. Alongside these efforts, pioneers in sustainability are emerging to lead new initiatives. One such leader, Recover Guyana, is championing a groundbreaking effort with its latest project, the ENGAGE initiative, which blends entrepreneurship with conservation to inspire the next generation of environmentalists.
What is the ENGAGE Project?
The ENGAGE Project is a green entrepreneurship programme unlike any other. Designed to empower young people across Guyana, it provides the tools, resources, and knowledge necessary to establish and maintain environmentally sustainable businesses in areas such as eco-tourism, renewable energy, waste management, organic farming, and more.
Partnering with Scotiabank and Dutch offshore company, Van Oord, the programme aims to train over 150 youth aged 16–35 in green technologies, eco-friendly innovations, and
sustainable business practices. Selected participants will also have the opportunity to receive grants of up to 2 million Guyana dollars to support the most promising and viable business ideas. The project will launch in January 2025, starting with training and mentorship programmes in Regions 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and 6 (East Berbice-Corentyne).
At its core, ENGAGE creates a robust learning environment for aspiring environmentalists. It equips participants with the skills, resources, and networks needed to develop and scale successful eco-friendly businesses. Building on Recover Guyana’s dedication to sustainability, the project is set to expand nationwide by 2026,
creating a vibrant movement of young, eco-conscious entrepreneurs.
Sponsors and supporters
The ENGAGE Project stands out as more than just a training programme. It is a collaboration with notable supporters committed to fostering environmental responsibility. Speaking at the launch of the event on December 5, Nafeeza Gaffoor, Country Manager of Scotiabank Guyana, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Scotiabank is pleased to collaborate with Recover Guyana on its ENGAGE project, helping to provide opportunities for young people to build their skills while promoting environmental sustainability. We are committed to
investing in initiatives that help people rise up, become better off, and change their circumstances so they can have successful futures. The ENGAGE Project not only aligns well with this focus but also helps our young people learn sustainable practices, encouraging greener communities.”
Dutch offshore company, Van Oord, shared similar sentiments, emphasising its commitment to creating a better future: “We are proud to announce our commitment to a social initiative, for which we are partnering with the NGO, Recover Guyana. This NGO is led by Guyanese young professionals. Our goal is to empower nature and communities through creating new opportunities and possibilities for today’s world and for generations to come. Through Recover Guyana, we expect to maximise our positive impact on vulnerable youths by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed for sustainable employment and positive community engagement. Therefore, this project fits perfectly with our value system, and we cannot wait to see Recover’s work come to life.”
Dr. Davindra Lalltoo: The vision behind ENGAGE
At the heart of this initiative is Dr. Davindra “Dave” Lalltoo, Founder and President of Recover Guyana. Born during an exhilarating boat journey to the Essequibo River on October 3 1991, Dr Lalltoo’s beginnings were as
unique as his journey. Raised on Leguan Island, surrounded by rice fields and a closeknit community, he learned the values of perseverance, respect, and collaboration early in life. These principles have shaped his career and passion for empowering others as well as championing environmental causes.
Dr Lalltoo’s academic journey began at Maryville Primary School; he then went on to earn advanced degrees, including a Doctorate in Business Administration. Dr Lalltoo’s pursuit of knowledge has always been aligned with his mission of creating positive change. Professionally, his accomplishments are equally remarkable, leading impactful initiatives such as SHOUT, an environmental speech competition, and now the ENGAGE Project.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Lalltoo shared his vision for the project, stating, “At the heart of the ENGAGE project is the vision of a greener Guyana, a country where the next generation of entrepreneurs leads the way in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.”
Beyond his environmental work, Dr Lalltoo is a Senior Lecturer, brand consultant, and former National Franchise Director for Miss Earth Guyana. He has received accolades, including the Caribbean Global Award for Best Global Community Leader (2024) and a National Youth Award for Environmental Protection. His pas-
sion for youth empowerment drives his efforts, as he urged participants of the ENGAGE Project to boldly pick up the mantle, stating, “Youth engagement is not a buzzword for us; it’s a mandate. When we say ‘engage,’ we mean creating a platform where young minds collaborate, innovate, and execute ideas that can reshape their futures.”
Moreover, Dr Lalltoo believes in the transformative power of youth and the role they play in the bigger picture of development. “The transformative potential of our youth is undeniable. When given the right tools, they are capable of designing solutions that not only address local challenges but also contribute to global conversations on sustainability. This is more than a programme; it’s a movement that signifies the collective commitment to nurturing the future leaders of Guyana,” he shared.
A Movement for the future
Recover Guyana’s ENGAGE Project represents a new and innovative approach to sustainability, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment. As Dr Lalltoo shared, the mission for Recover Guyana and the ENGAGE Project is to make a difference today for a better tomorrow: “Our mission is clear: invest in the youth today to create a thriving, self-reliant nation tomorrow,” shared Dr Lalltoo.
By Shaniya Harding
FROM unique figurines from your favourite show to a simple pair of shoes worn by your favourite character, the little things can make a big difference. Mischief Merch was developed to recapture the nostalgia that “the simple things” can evoke, with a variety of colourful and captivating products. One of Guyana’s few businesses entering the new age of anime culture, now making its way to the Caribbean, Mischief Merch aims to develop a safe space for those who still love the mystery and artistry of anime.
Launched in October 2023 at the Fumacon anime convention, Mischief Merch is the brainchild of 30-year-old entrepreneur and facility director, Matthew Humphrey and his family. Matthew’s love for anime, art, and pop culture ignited a passion to share these treasures and the joy they bring with Guyanese. In talking to Pepperpot Magazine, Matthew shared, “What if the general population that enjoys these things can’t afford them?” He further added, “I want to give people the opportunity to enjoy them, you know. Parents don’t feel that pressure to say, ‘My kid wants this, but I can’t get it. It’s too expensive.’”
From the start, Mischief Merch set out to break the barrier of expensive anime merchandise. Coming from humble beginnings himself, Matthew wants to give children and adults alike the chance to enjoy their favourite shows and films. In an age where owning a piece of one’s favourite series often feels like a luxury, Mischief Merch offers a variety of products, from figurines to plushies, that fans can actually afford. Matthew’s goal is simple: make anime culture accessible to all.
As Matthew shares, “It’s not just about the characters; it’s about the artistry.” He further added, “People are drawn to how these artists create these figurines, the attention to detail. You see a figurine shaped to reflect a moment from the show, like even things like a fight scene.”
The growing anime community in Guyana Matthew has witnessed firsthand how quickly the anime community in Guyana has grown. “It attracts so many people, like in the hundreds,” he says, describing the excitement
around events like Fumacon and Berbice Anime Expo. “You would see that they invest a lot into these kinds of events just to get people more aware of it. People are just fascinated by those cultures.”
The rising interest in anime and pop culture in Guyana has proven that there is a demand for affordable, high-quality merchandise. People of all ages are embracing the fandom, drawn not only to the products but to the sense of belonging. Even though the anime scene is growing, Matthew acknowledges the challenges faced by some fans, especially those from older generations who may not understand the appeal of anime. He recalls comments like, “Why are we adopting another culture that’s not our own? This is a waste of time.” But he adds that these attitudes are slowly changing. “Once people see the creativity and artistry behind it, they get it,” Matthew says.
Building the brand
with the demand for a physical presence, Matthew has recently secured the business’s new permanent location in the Massy Store in Guyana at Providence. “We’re constantly searching for new, exciting ways to delight you, surprise you, and remind you why being a part of these fandoms is so special,” Matthew shares.
Like many small businesses, Mischief Merch has faced its fair share of hurdles. Matthew reflects on the difficulties of managing logistics, designing products, and, perhaps most challenging of all, securing the funds to get started. “Financial is one of the biggest challenges. I had to do multiple jobs to get the money to do it,” he said. While Matthew kept his day job, he also took on side jobs, including construction, to help fund his dream. He invested everything he had into Mischief Merch and, with the support of his team, has seen the business launch and grow.
Despite these struggles, the business has been steadily growing. Mischief Merch started as an online platform, but
Looking ahead, Matthew is excited about the future of Mischief Merch. The brand isn’t just about selling figurines and anime products—it’s about connecting with the community and expanding into new areas. “We’re getting into gaming. We’re getting into personalised stuff that you specifically are looking for,” he says. The next step for Mischief Merch is branching into family games and digital platforms, where they plan to offer even more interactive experiences for fans. Matthew is determined to grow the brand into something larger, where the focus isn’t just on selling products but on building a community of people who share a common love for anime and pop culture.
What truly sets Mischief Merch apart is the strong sense of community it fosters. “We as business owners can actually interact with all our customers and share an experience with them,” Matthew explains. Although still in its early stages, Mischief Merch is more than a small business; it may be the go-to place to find something for the anime lover in your life this holiday season.
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.
Anna stared in awe at the huge Christmas tree in the mall, decorated with gold lights, multi-coloured ornaments, and garlands. At the top of the tree was a glittering golden star, and she gasped, marvelling at how incredibly beautiful it was. In her little heart, there was joy and a wonderful feeling that this blessed season brings.
A young girl in pain, alone, at the beach in the dead of the night.
“Anna,” her father called, “C’mon.”
What happened to her?
The deep, haunting look in her eyes, the ashen face and colourless lips told a story of something cold.
She ran to him and took his hand, elated that he had taken a day off work so they could go Christmas shopping. She also wanted to see Santa Claus because she had a special secret wish to share with him.
God.
How, then, did evil interrupt her life?
No one had an answer.
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.
ly grieving family, who just couldn’t process the fact that she was no more in their lives.
“Hi, Dad!”
On the day of her funeral, she went back home in her spiritual form to comfort her family and to confront her killers. They would be in attendance, she knew, amongst the huge turnout of mourners.
“Ho, ho, ho!” Santa greeted her. “What’s your name, little girl?”
“I’m Anna,” she said, then whispered, “I have a special wish.”
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.
“Okay,” Santa whispered back, “What’s your wish?”
She handed him a note, and he smiled, a bit uncertain as he read it. The child had asked for a special miracle for her Christmas gift.
She wanted a mother.
“How did this happen?” she cried, “They were my friends, whom I trusted to take me home.”
Anna had been only four years old when her mother was called away to the Lord’s home, leaving her alone with her father. They had always celebrated the Christmas holidays together, but her mother’s absence had left a void. It was never the same without the refreshing scent she brought to the house, her radiant smile, and her cheerful voice.
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.
The little girl, now eight years old, wanted her own little family with someone like the mother she had lost. She knew her father was still sad, and though he had gone on dates occasionally, he still seemed lonely.
“How do I find her?” the child wondered. Everywhere she went—church, the supermarket, the movies, the park—her little heart could not recognise anyone.
So, this Christmas, she decided to ask Santa.
That night, her father kissed her good night. “Sweet dreams, my little princess.”
“Good night, Daddy,” she said with a sweet smile.
She was supposed to have ridden home with her two friends, Aruna and Preity, that night after the cultural programme, but a late change of plans by them to go out with their boyfriends caused her to ride home instead with two male friends she knew very well. The other two boys she had met only once at a wedding reception, but they seemed like nice guys. On the way home, she had a bottle of fruit drink, and a slight drowsiness overcame her, which she thought was tiredness, but it must have been something else. She became dazed and did not notice the detour on the lonely road to the beach that would be deserted at that hour.
Her father looked at her sleeping face, sadness in his eyes. It was still hard for him to deal with the loss of his wife and to see his child yearning for a mother’s love.
Betrayed by those who masqueraded as friends.
“Why? Where is my wrong?” were her soundless, agonising cries.
way home and asked them to stop for someone else to pick her up.
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.
“Oh my gosh,” she gasped quietly. “Is she the one?”
Arianna smiled and said, “She’s doing great.” Anna’s father nodded, smiling casually with just a hint of charm. For a brief moment, as their eyes met, something magical happened.
On the last day before the Christmas concert, as the session ended and the children began to leave, Anna hesitated, wanting to say something but not knowing how.
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 her brother and sister, wiping their tears.
But they were not aware of her presence. Her mother, though, seemed to sense something and whispered, “Ary-
Arianna noticed her hesitation and called out, “Anna, is there something on your mind you’d like to talk about?”
“Yes, Miss.”
The family turned to look at her mother, and she broke down crying, “She’s here with us. My baby is here.”
Taking a deep breath, Anna asked, “Would you like to marry my father?”
Arianna looked at her, taken aback, and for a moment, she was speechless.
“What?”
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.”
“I don’t have a mum, and I asked Santa for a mum for Christmas. When you came, I knew it was you.”
Arianna was touched by the child’s words. With an understanding smile and a tinge of regret, she said, “I’m sorry for the loss of your mother, but I really don’t know your father well.”
“He’s a nice guy, and he thinks you’re very beautiful.”
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.”
“Well, that’s nice to know,” Arianna said with a little laugh. “So here’s what—we have a concert to do, and maybe we’ll talk about this later.”
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.
She looked up at the heavens and continued to cry, “You are my God. I believed in you. Where were you when I cried for help?”
The beach was silent as the lone figure sat with her head bent. There was no place in the world for her anymore.
The school’s Christmas concert was two weeks away, and Anna was busy with rehearsals. She was singing with the choir and doing a solo, but Mrs Farier, the music teacher, unexpectedly fell ill just four days before the big night. No one else could be found to take her place on such short notice, and panic began to set in among the children and their parents.
But it was Christmas, a season when magical things happen.
“I died,” she moaned, “My mother and father have lost their little girl.”
A pianist friend of one of the teachers, on vacation from the Netherlands, offered to help.
On a chilly morning, the children had gathered in the music room, unsure if they would be able to perform in the concert, when a mellow voice called from the door, “Good morning, children.”
A fisherman had discovered her body lying on the sand early the next morning. She stood there, unseen in her spiritual form, watching as the police cordoned off the area and canvassed the scene for clues. Word spread, and a crowd gathered, shocked and angry that such a horrible thing had happened to a decent young girl.
She had watched helplessly as her father, shocked beyond words, sank to his knees and broke down, crying as he looked at her lifeless body.
Standing at the door was a stunningly beautiful woman with lustrous dark brown hair and a simple, casual look.
“Good morning,” they said in unison.
He had looked up at the heavens, his hands clasped, his voice breaking, “Why…why God? Why, my little girl?”
“My name is Arianna, and I’m your volunteer music teacher.”
“Hooray!” everyone cheered.
She had a warm, lovely smile, light dancing in her soft
When the hours had gotten late last night, and she hadn’t yet come home, her phone turned off, and her mother experienced a deep feeling of dread, her father, brother and cousins had begun searching until daylight.
No one could console her father. What should she tell her mother, who was waiting at home battling her fears?
Even the heavens trembled that day at the mother’s cries for the child she had brought into this world, a blessing from
She stayed calm, focusing on her rehearsal, and by the end of the class session, she was sure Arianna was the one.
“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 soul.”
Anna was hopeful, but she didn’t see Arianna again after the concert. Then, the day before Christmas Eve, Arianna stopped by to say she couldn’t stay for Christmas. Her family wanted her home to discuss a proposal from a business magnate’s son. Anna’s joy melted into sadness, and tears rolled down her cheeks.
Aryana watched her killers hurriedly leave and smiled, cold fury in her eyes, “It’s just the beginning.”
To be continued…
Anna could hardly wait to get home to tell her father, breathless with excitement. He held her gently by the shoulders.
The sky rumbled, the water became restless, and the wind howled as she waited under the mangrove trees.
On Christmas morning, she didn’t rush downstairs to see what Santa had brought. She stayed huddled in bed, heartbroken.
“Whoa, whoa, take a deep breath and speak slowly.”
“She’s very beautiful and has a sweet voice. You’ve got to meet her!”
“Okay, she sounds like a nice person,” her father said casually, not wanting to add to her excitement. “But she and I are strangers to each other, and she may not find me interesting.”
“You’re a handsome and nice guy. Why shouldn’t she?”
“Well, she could be married.”
“There’s no ring on her finger.”
“She could have a boyfriend.”
“Well, maybe, but you could at least try,” Anna urged. “Please.”
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. Her wait was over.
Her father tried to cheer her up. “Don’t you want to see what Santa brought you?”
“No.”
“I think you should.”
He lifted her into his arms and told her to close her eyes as he carried her downstairs. Setting her down gently, he said, “Now open your eyes.”
There, by the Christmas tree, stood the most beautiful gift Anna could have wanted—dark hair, a lovely smile, and light in her eyes.
“Merry Christmas, Anna,” Arianna said.
“You didn’t leave!” Anna squealed with delight and ran to hug her.
“Okay,” he said with a sigh. “Anything for you.”
Arianna was at the piano rehearsing with the choir when Anna’s father stopped by.
The dark abyss had answered her call to fight evil with evil.
“I don’t know how,” Arianna said, holding the little girl. “But I was overcome by a strong feeling not to leave, and I thought I’d get to know your father a little more.”
“Hello,” he said apologetically. “Sorry to interrupt—just checking to see how my little girl is doing.”
“For each new day, now,” she vowed, “stones will bleed.”
“And who is…?” she was about to ask when Anna raised her hand.
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-
He smiled, and the look he shared with Arianna spoke more than words could.
Anna felt like the happiest girl in the world, for she had gotten her Christmas gift—wrapped in love.
and interpreting Christmas towards having the cultural expression of ‘goodwill to all humanity and kind’
To explore Christmas, one of Guyana’s most persuasive holidays, we must examine whether it was indeed slavery that imposed Christianity on Afro-Creole Guyanese or whether an awareness of a similar story existed before the plantation-era forms of Christianity, with its contradictions and justifications for the religious scams that upheld slavery. From all reliable records available to researchers, the legend and celebration of a similar character and festival did exist among Africans. This was the God Ausar, or Osiris, who was slain, resurrected, and became the God of judging the dead. This predates the concept of Christianity by ages and entered the religious realms of Europe much later. The Christianity of the slave era was, however, original in its devious dictates, creating a mock doctrine of contradictions to justify slavery and indoctrinate generations of Africans born on the plantations of the Americas.
The celebration of Christmas is also rooted in the seasonal harvest (agricultural) ‘solstice’ ceremonies of rebirth, including expressions of cleansing farmlands and households and sharing festivals of food. Such tribal banquets could not persist without the social script of goodwill towards fellow humans and the hope of a spiritual concept proposing cosmic change and positive continuity. Thus, Christ’s birth became significant—necessary today in a human world that appears to be in ideological decline. In spheres where awareness of Christianity is prominent, Christmas as a professed ideal requires a greater-than-life interpretation to engage. Such a concept rests with the inner ideals of the Christmas pageant, a tradition in the ancient pre-Christian world connected to Ausar-Osiris. In my memory as a child, Christmas and Easter pageants were significant.
We are confronted with the intent to prove that humankind is a shared responsibility despite deceptions, disagreements, and materialistic overtures. The lack of principles challenges the necessary goodwill that is expected—even without charity. However, we must commit to this at some stage, for life throws conflict and disappointment, not only from strangers but often more painfully from our own blood. Suffice it to say that Christmas, as a celebration of birth and hope, encourages us to re-equip ourselves and persist towards our dreams and commitments within the symbolic newness and continuity that the season inspires.
I was always indirectly taught from my early youth that with Christmas, one must contemplate bidding farewell to the passing year and simultaneously consider the birth of the coming year, as the two ceremonies are entwined and must be
wisely guarded. Traversing this path of safeguarding requires the synchronisation of the family unit, guided by its heads. From Christmases past, we have learned its lessons, a teaching life of its own, and experience kicks in, bringing wisdom to the modern management of resources.
In closing, I’ve seen improvements in some of our
national masquerade bands. Let us enjoy our national holiday foods, representing every group of the people who came to this land. Look at the season as a moment of evaluation, both for Christmas and Kwanzaa, as we condition our objectives and responsibilities for 2025.
Before we know it, 2025 will arrive, and while I’m an advocate for any day being the perfect day for change, most changes begin as New Year’s resolutions, which, sadly, are often the most unsuccessful attempts.
I’ve decided that my next three columns will cover effective change and its maintenance. I’ll be following Prochaska and DiClemente’s six stages of change model. Since its introduction in the 1970s, this model has explained the process every individual undergoes to achieve successful change, allowing for an understanding of readiness and potential barriers.
These stages include:
• Precontemplation: Issues are denied or ignored.
• Contemplation: Issues are accepted, and change is being considered.
• Preparation: Change is decided, and plans are made.
• Action: Plans are implemented to achieve goals.
• Maintenance: Change is effective and actively occurring.
• Relapse: Possible setbacks, but hopefully, a desire to keep going.
In this column, stages 1, 2, and 3 will be discussed. January’s column will cover stages 4 and 5, and February will address stage 6. I have structured it this way for optimum benefits, and perhaps my columns will meet you at your current stage. However, keep in mind that there is no defined beginning or end to each stage; true change takes time, progressing gradually through small steps.
Comfort and routine are one and the same, but we would enjoy healthy change more. When people say they can’t change certain things, I immediately think of COVID, which has changed every single daily habit for much of the world—so our capability is not the issue. It’s not easy, as it involves serious time, effort, and emotion, but healthier habits can become routine, just as unhealthy ones did.
Precontemplation
If you are here, it means you have acknowledged that there is a need for change, but your willingness and motivation are being questioned. The benefits of change are clear, but so are the costs, so ambivalence can keep people in this stage for months or even years.
Most go wrong here by making decisions based on others’ opinions or generic reasons such as “I should” or “this is considered better practice.” Change only occurs when it’s important and specific to you.
If you know you need to make a change but don’t know in which area yet, that’s okay, too. Pay attention to what you do when there’s no directive—when you are free to do as you please. What are you doing? Does it bring contentment or sadness?
This stage helps normalise and resolve ambivalence, leading to self-awareness and self-love. However, to avoid remaining here too long, ask yourself:
• What harm is the behaviour currently causing?
• Why do you want to change?
• What barriers are preventing change?
• What or who can help create change?
ance of all three, pushing you towards change.
Reframe your thoughts from what you believe you are giving up to what you’re instead gaining. For example, it may seem like giving up social nights with friends, but you are actually gaining more financial freedom.
To move faster into ‘Preparation,’ practice envisioning. Visualise yourself a year after the change has occurred. What does it look like? How do you feel?
Most people do not get further than this stage, but you are not most people. Remember, if you continue doing what you’ve always done, you’ll keep receiving what you’ve always had.
Preparation
“How?” is now the key question.
This stage is crucial because change often fails due to lack of preparation. Here, you cultivate the necessary skills, distinguish new from previous approaches, and mentally prepare for the difficulties ahead.
Instead of asking, “How will I do it?” try picturing yourself having already done it and asking, “How did I do it?” This shifts your mindset to focus on possibilities rather than problems.
The first stage of anything is typically denial, where change isn’t even considered because the issue isn’t accepted. However, everyone has behaviours or habits that require change, and you can bring these to self-awareness.
Ask yourself:
• Daily, do you have more negative than positive emotions?
• Is anyone expressing concern about you or your actions?
• Are you having conflicts in your relationships?
• How do you recognise something as problematic? What would need to happen in your life to incite change? Take a minute to reflect on these questions because the harsh truth is that if you aren’t dealing with your problems, your loved ones probably are.
Self-love is vital at this stage. We better ourselves to the extent that we believe we deserve, so we must nourish our self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-efficacy. These terms are often used interchangeably but are entirely different, and neglecting them equally can cause great issues.
• Self-esteem is how you feel about your personal qualities (e.g., “Am I a good person? Am I kind?”).
• Self-confidence refers to abilities (e.g., “Am I good at marketing? Cooking?”).
• Self-efficacy is associated with specific tasks (e.g., “I handled a situation well, so I feel good about myself.”).
Every night, I urge you to write down:
• Two qualities you admire about yourself.
• Two things you are good at.
• One thing you accomplished that day. Even small accomplishments help develop a healthy bal-
Identify your motivational habits:
• Extrinsic motivation (external): e.g., exercising to improve appearance.
• Intrinsic motivation (internal): e.g., exercising for mental and physical health benefits.
• Both are valid, but knowing which applies to you is vital for lasting change.
Start with small steps. Acknowledge that the smallest step is greater than the largest intention. Actions may include reading relevant books, joining clubs, consulting professionals, or following social media pages promoting your desired change.
Making change requires time, which can be overwhelming. I recommend the Eisenhower Matrix, a task management tool that organises priorities into four categories:
• Urgent and Important.
• Urgent but Not Important.
• Important but Not Urgent.
• Neither Urgent nor Important.
It takes 60 days for new behaviours to become habits. Most people fail not because it’s hard, but because it’s tedious. Push through the discomfort to form habits.
These stages are personal and fluid. You might stay in one stage for a long time or skip others altogether. You can also work on multiple changes simultaneously, being in different stages for each.
Celebrate all progress, no matter how minimal it seems.
Finally, prepare for lapses or setbacks. “Failure” is a tool that provides valuable information about what doesn’t work for you. Persistence matters more than perfection.
Please tune in for January’s column, where I’ll discuss the realities of the Action and Maintenance stages.
THIS column will again touch on Mangroves because of its importance historically, socially and economically.
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.
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 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-
From time to time, various Ministers, as Heads of Government Departments and officials of the Private Sector, have spoken out against corruption, which exists in both governmental and private sectors. Full and concerted action against corruption was, however, only seriously initiated when the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Hon. Gail Texeira, held an anti-corruption workshop in partnership with the Private Sector at the end of last November. Both Government and the Private Sector expressed their intention and aspiration to eradicate corruption.
They pointed out the effects of corruption, all of which were negative, including the slowing down of governmental and private sector activity, leading to inefficiency and increased costs in all business transactions. In all this, national development was retarded. It weakens the moral fibre of both parties to a corrupt transaction, and this human degradation increases with the passing of time. Governmental spokespersons stressed that eradicating the culture of corruption, which they link with human rights, would result in a clean society.
The Private Sector, on the other hand, felt that the court system was too dilatory and that the laws affecting corruption needed to be solidified and modernised. They argued that the punitive aspects of the law needed to be greatly strengthened. If these reforms were effectuated, corrupt persons would cease to assume that they could escape the
net of the law with impunity.
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.
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.
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”.
The words of Minister Gail Texeira highlight the rejection of the culture of corruption: “What has to be developed consciously is a new culture that is not based on the view held by some that you have to grease someone’s hand to get something done, where the systems work transparently and fairly, and people trust them to do so. We need to have a new culture where people feel if they want a passport or put in a tender for a contract, they don’t have to grease anybody’s palm. This requires, at all levels of the Public Service and Private Sector, zero tolerance for persons offering or asking for bribes.”
Ramesh Dookhoo, speaking on behalf of the Private Sector, called for the quickening of court procedures and the consolidation of anti-corruption legislation, thus making it more effective: “You need to take all these pieces of legislation and have holistic anti-corruption legislation in Guyana, which makes it easier for the Police, the Regulators, and everybody else to take you to court and be successful. The penalties would have to be harsh so that you wouldn’t even want to risk it.”
Though exorcising bribery and other forms of corruption from Guyanese society may appear to be a difficult uphill task, in reality, it is not. Until the beginning of the 1960s, bribery and corruption were unknown in the Public Service and the Private Sector, and this culture of cleanliness and transparency in business dealings was the norm. The
induction of corruption was strangely done by the post-Independence Guyanese State, which was undemocratic. When democracy was restored in the 1990s, the successor democratic state was unable to focus its full attention on the elimination of corruption, which had taken fairly deep roots and continued. The present serious effort initiated by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, the Private Sector, and various NGOs to restore Guyana to its former corruption-free status is likely to succeed since the majority of Guyanese people and institutions wish to exorcise bribery and corruption from their society.
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.
To quicken the pace of permanently eliminating bribery and corruption, we suggest the following: In addition to the great efforts made by the State and Private Sector, we propose that in all training programmes mounted by both the State and Private Sector, a 45-minute session on corruption should be included. The Heads of Government departments should keep greater surveillance over their offices and be willing to enquire into any complaint or suspicion of corruption. At the primary school level, some reading material nurturing honesty and anti-corruption should be included. In the days of the British Empire, the Royal Readers, used in primary schools, promoted patriotism, honesty, and anti-corruption with much success. Likewise, this culture could be revived today.
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.
A butterfly cannot predict the pattern on its wings before it transforms. Nevertheless, it goes forth bravely into its cocoon and allows the transformation to take place without worrying about the result. Life is filled with many important choices whose outcomes are unknown. For young people, these choices can be especially frightening, as they have the potential to shape the rest of their lives. One such crucial decision is choosing one’s career. When we make the choice of a specific career, many of us cannot predict exactly where the path will lead us, much like the caterpillar who cannot predict the pattern on its wings. Yet, we must brave forth and embrace the path that we choose and trust that the reasons for our choices will be our loyal companions throughout our journey.
However, what if these crucial choices were shaped by something other than our passion and genuine liking? What if the reasons that are supposed to encourage us throughout our journey gradually became pointless?
Over the past few decades, our world has transformed into one that constantly flourishes with new inventions and innovations. This, however, is not because we have more needs, but because we have more avenues to explore our creativity and ability to innovate. It is true that most children in today’s world are given the opportunity to be a part of spaces to gain creative and innovative skills such as various clubs, art and music classes. Regardless of this, most individuals seem to be pushed towards a few specific fields of work after their schooling. The encouragement to be creative often seems to be limited to the period of childhood, as there are very few young people who choose a career in fields like art, literature or music, and fewer still who choose to acquire further education in those fields.
The truth is, many young people, upon reaching the stage of having to make a choice for their career, are faced with a hidden ultimatum: do they choose a career that they are passionate about, or do they choose a career that is lucrative and can support them throughout their lives? For a few lucky individuals, their passion already lies in a field that is generally considered lucrative, so they do not need to make this decision. However, the reality for many young people is that they are pushed to give up their passion and creativity just so they can survive comfortably in the long run. Many young people also shoulder the responsibility of having to support their families immediately following their period of schooling, and it can be difficult for them to choose their passions over a chance to fulfil their responsibilities.
Fields like music, art, drama, and literature offer very few lucrative and stable opportunities for young people as compared to other fields. This means that even those who are extremely skilled and passionate in these areas are forced to treat their passion as a hobby while focusing their energy on a job that can provide a stable income. In addition, the growth of these very important fields is also stunted by a lack of individuals who are willing to enter them. The changes required to foster a generation of young people who are free to pursue any career they like may take some time to occur. In the meantime, we can make some personal choices that can prevent us from leading a life doing things we do not love.
Even if we are placed in a situation where we can no longer pursue our passion in a professional capacity, we must ensure that we constantly develop our skills in the area we desire and connect with other individuals who share similar interests. Opportunities like conventions, seminars, and conferences can be quite useful in learning more about our interests and gaining new chances.
Our creativity as a generation should not be shaped by the need to survive, but should be supported by the desire to thrive. If there is not yet any space for us to express our creativity, let us make collective efforts to create our own spaces. Until then, let us hold on to our passions and refuse to give up on doing the things that we truly love. When the world does change, can you imagine the great feats that we can achieve as an entire generation that is empowered by the ability to express itself freely?
LAST week, the world observed International Human Rights Day, and while most professionals understood what it meant, the majority of the population went about their normal routines without realising the fundamental importance of such a day. In 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Human Rights Day marks the anniversary of one of the most important global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). As such, all United Nations Member States observe Human Rights Day to emphasise the relevance and significance of human rights in our daily lives. On Tuesday, 10th December, the world observed Human Rights Day under the theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.” The UDHR is a document that highlights the rights of human beings across the world, regardless of who they are, where they live, what language they speak, their race or ethnicity, their creed, sex, or status.
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 this week’s column, I want to highlight why human rights are so important and why we should take time around next year’s observance of Human Rights Day to reflect on its significance. Human rights are the foundation of a fair and just society. Where equality and equity exist, respect for human rights also exists. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world— and even in Guyana—these fundamental rights are violated, disregarded, or overlooked. At the centre of understanding human rights, it is important to note their intersections are broad, from economic freedoms such as the right to employment to political rights such as freedom of speech. A human right such as the freedom of speech is not a privilege; it is an entitlement. According to the United Nations, human rights are categorised under economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as civil and political rights. There are also collective human rights, such as cultural preservation.
The observance of Human Rights Day is a reflection of the fact that not every human being’s entitlement to human rights is adhered to. It sparks important conversations and reminds people who might be violated in some way that they have rights, and most times, those very rights are protected through local legislation. In Guyana, challenges in human rights protection manifest in areas such as gender-based violence, access to education, and economic inequality. One example of such violations is financial abuse—often an invisible form of domestic violence. Addressing this violation is a crucial step toward empowering women. By addressing financial control and dependency, we can create avenues for women to reclaim their independence and exercise their full rights. When a woman is financially abused, her right to work, her right to education, and her right to economic freedom may be infringed upon. This example, among countless others, illustrates why the observance of Human Rights Day is of utmost importance to all.
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.
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.
In a world where colonialism of entire ethnicities and genocides of cultural heritage have occurred, human rights protect against the repetition of these painful moments in history. Yes, similar stories and events are still happening today. Those who commit such acts are in violation of others’ human rights. The United Nations works globally through its various bodies, such as the Human Rights Council, to ensure that human rights are protected. However, I believe we still must “be our brother’s keeper.” As you read this article, I hope it inspires you to ensure that the rights of your friends, colleagues, family, and, importantly, your own self are protected, respected, and valued. As we move forward, let us remember the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, who said, “Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home.” It begins with you and me—speaking out against injustices, supporting those in need, and holding systems accountable.
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.
From Page II
hand by providing beverages for the event.
Cave noted that the GPF will be donating the toys for the children, and she is looking forward to their continued support in this regard, as she needs the assistance and cannot do it with only one other volunteer, Annie Baker, who has been by her side making arrangements.
between four and 17 years, all drawn from the community.
She pointed out that the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club has 40 members, consisting of children aged
Cave explained that it has been a fruitful year for the club because they had some successful projects and excelled at the inter-division police spelling bee competi-
tion in October.
She added that they also conducted a tie-dye programme and an agriculture project, during which they cultivated tomatoes and peppers. After harvesting, they shared the produce with the police and parents.
Cave disclosed that they secured first place in the Junior category of the Police Spelling Bee Competition this year, which was a significant achievement for the club.
She stated that, in August, the children went camping, and the Mocha Police Outpost donated backpacks and school supplies for the children for the new school term this year as well.
The Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia resident told the Pepperpot Magazine that she was originally from Region One (Barima-Waini), Mabaruma, and has lived in Mocha for over 40 years. She is the mother of 11 children.
She stated that the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club meets every Saturday to hold regular community capacity-building sessions for children and youths.
“I don’t think I can stop doing community work as a volunteer because it is part of my life, and I like being
of use to others, to assist in any way that I can,” she said. Cave is well-known in the community, and with her inherent craft skills, she can connect with many people locally, using her skills to teach and create craft pieces from materials found in the environment that would have otherwise gone to waste.
The community-based volunteer told the Pepperpot Magazine that being around children and making a difference in their lives is far more fulfilling than sitting idly, and she will continue to be an advocate for as long as she can.
The elderly leader stated that, especially during the festive season, she ensures the children have a party with toys and other goodies to take home with them.
She is, however, grateful for the sponsors, the police, and parents who donated towards the Christmas party for the children of Mocha Arcadia.
Journalists say a thing that isn’t true, in that hope that if they keep on saying it long enough it will be true.
BENNETT (1867- 1931) The Title, Act II
Dear Student,
Welcome dear reading friend. As you examine a text it is necessary to understand it and pull together its main ideas. Proficiency in pulling together ideas can come with the practise of extracting salient points for summary writing purposes. You can attain greater skill when
you practise comparing several summaries of the same passage and become conscious of the most common mistakes made when summarising. You easily get to decide which of the summaries is the best. Be wise.
Love you.
Answering questions
Notes: 1. Questions can be asked and answered before, during, and after reading a passage. But as it concerns today’s responding after reading, it is necessary that you do something akin to this strategy: a) read the passage once, quickly, to get the gist of what it is saying; b) read the questions through, so you know what they are asking; c) read the passage again, in more detail; d) write the answers those questions with a bit of more particular reading; respond to all parts of the question.
2. Similarly, when it comes to an essay question, you can respond directly and correctly or make a mess of it. It all comes down to your understanding of what the question is asking of you and the extent of your background preparation.
3. Respond to all parts of the question.
4. Employ working memory and pay attention to order of details. These are so necessary in essay responses.
Read the following extract carefully and then answer all the questions set on it.
The classroom is where we first realised that we were good at maths or spelling or terrible at science or geography. From our own memories and experiences as learners, many of us can recall the obstacles that prevented us from grasping the proper way to diagram a sentence or understanding the laws of algebra. Some of us can remember the teachers who removed those obstacles, enabling us to learn.
Today’s classroom might seem very different from the classrooms we remember, but the challenges of teaching (and learning) remain essentially the same. Teachers are still expected to convey a certain amount of information between September and June, and students are still expected to learn it. Teachers still employ a familiar variety of classroom assessments – in their search for evidence of student progress, and students still ask the critical question: Is this going to be on the test?”
Almost daily, in almost every classroom, some form of student assessment is taking place. Searching for assessment tools to support
the new teaching strategies, teachers and researchers are exploring assessment alternatives that reveal what students currently know and understand, in the hope that teachers can then use that information to suggest appropriate instructional next steps…
1. In paragraph 1, according to the writer when he was a student, what was the role or responsibility of some of his teachers?
2. Identify TWO aspects of the classroom which are essentially the same today.
3. What effect does “the critical question” imply as used by the writer in the last sentence in paragraph 2?
4. The writer uses “we”, “our”, and “us” in paragraphs I and 2. What effect on the reader does the writer wish to achieve by this?
5. In paragraphs 2 and 3, the writer uses the expressions “might seem”, “almost”, and “ideally”. What do they suggest about the writer?
6. Write an essay on your personal classroom observations about the role of teachers and the responsibilities of students to facilitate effective learning.
A poem based on love
Read the poem carefully and then write your responses clearly and precisely.
I watched the island narrowing, the fine Writing of foam around the shore, then The roads as small and casual as twine Between the mountains; I looked until the plane 5 Turned to the final north and turned above The open channel, and the quiet sea between The fisherman’s islets, until all that I love Was lost in cloud. I watched the shallow green That marked the places where there must be reef, 10 The silver glinting of the fuselage, each mile Dividing us, and all fidelity strained Till space would break it, and then after a while I thought of nothing, nothing I knew would change
When we arrived at Seawell, it had rained. (Derek Walcott’s Tales of the Islands)
a) i) What does the speaker mean by the word “narrowing” in line 1?
ii) Why is the island described as “narrowing”?
b) i) Identify ONE literary device used between lines 1 and 5.
ii) Quote the words for the device chosen.
c) Where is the speaker in the poem located? How would you describe the experience?
d) The speaker notices the last feature of the island. What is it?
e) i) What is meant by “until all that I love/ Was lost in cloud” in lines 7 & 8? ii) What is meant by “each mile/ Dividing us, and all fidelity strained/ Till space would break it” in lines 10-12.
f) Give the concept of the following terms in the poem: island, casual, final north, open channel, shallow green, reef, fuselage.
g) The speaker’s journey is divided into three parts. Identify these parts by giving the appropriate line numbers. Part 1: Part 2: Part 3:
GRAMMAR
One reminder on verbs in sentences showing proper time relation to one another.
When an indirect discourse follows a past tense, use the auxiliaries ‘could’, ‘should’, ‘would’, and ‘might’.
For example: Jackson declared that he would [not will] help us.
PATIENTS sometimes blame dental professionals after filling their teeth when pain persists for a period. The general reason why teeth may become sensitive after being filled is because of the drilling and cutting of nerves during the preparation of the cavity for filling. Remember, the tooth is alive and needs some time to heal. However, there are several other explanations for pain around fillings.
Dental sensitivity following the placement of a filling is common. A tooth may be sensitive to pressure, air, sweet foods, or temperature. Usually, the sensitivity resolves on its own within a few weeks. During this time, it is advisable to avoid those things that are causing sensitivity. Pain relievers are generally not required.
For example, you may experience pain when you bite down, which may be observed soon after the anaesthesia wears off and continues over time. In this case, the filling is interfering with your bite. You will need to return to your dentist and have the filling reshaped. Then, there is pain when your teeth touch. This pain is a very sharp sensation that occurs only when your teeth make contact. It is likely caused by the touching of two different metal surfaces (for example, the silver amalgam in a newly filled tooth and a gold crown on another tooth with which it touches). Sometimes, the teeth may even be some distance apart. The two metals form the poles of a “battery” with the saliva being the electrolyte. The pain is really from galvanic shock generated by the resulting electrical current. Sometimes, the pain disappears after a week or so.
If the decay is very deep to the pulp (nerve) of the tooth, there may be a “toothache” pain. This response may indicate that the tissue is no longer healthy or the body has not reacted as it should. In either case, root canal treatment is required.
Then there is what is known as referred pain. With this type of pain, you experience sensitivity or discomfort in other teeth besides the one that received the filling. With this sensation, there is likely nothing wrong with your other teeth. The filled tooth is simply passing along “pain signals” it is receiving to other teeth. This pain should decrease on its own over one to two weeks.
Allergic reactions to silver fillings are rare. In fact, there are fewer than a hundred cases reported in over two centuries, according to the American Dental Association. In these rare circumstances, mercury or one of the metals used in an amalgam restoration is thought to trigger an allergic response. Symptoms of amalgam allergy are similar to those experienced in a typical skin allergy and include rashes and itching. Patients who suffer from amalgam allergies typically have a medical or family history of allergies to metals. Once an allergy is confirmed, another restoration material can be used. Constant pressure from chewing, grinding, or clenching can cause dental fillings to wear away, chip, or crack. Although you may not be able to tell that your filling is wearing down, your dentist can identify weaknesses in your restorations during a regular check-up. If the seal between your filling and the tooth enamel breaks down, food particles and decay-causing bacteria can work their way under the filling. This is called seepage or recidivism. You then run the risk of developing additional decay in that tooth. Decay that is left untreated can progress to infect the dental pulp and may cause an abscessed tooth. This can lead to terrible pain, loss of the tooth, and even death from conditions such as Vincent’s angina or encephalitis.
If the filling is large or the recurrent decay is extensive, there may not be enough tooth structure remaining to support a replacement filling. In these cases, your dentist may need to replace the filling with a crown.
