Spicing it up this season with a taste of culture
Sunday, December 22, 2024
Dixie alongside one of her famed Capadulla Punch de Cremes (Samuel Maughn photo)
Plant-based products for hair and beard debuts at Favour’s Hair Therapy
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.
A ‘good ole Guyanese Christmas‘
IT is often said that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but it comes with much work, preparations, housecleaning, decluttering, shopping, entertaining, and cooking.
In Guyana, as in many other parts of the globe, it is a special time to get rid of the old and welcome the new. House cleaning begins weeks ahead of the festive season.
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.
is used in the production of the products, including essential oils.
Old items such as furniture, televisions, and household goods that no longer serve their purpose are discarded near trash bins, awaiting garbage truck pickups. New items, including furniture and other household essentials that people have worked towards or saved up for, are purchased.
A new piece of furniture adds a bit of colour to things we’ve had for a while. Here in Guyana, we don’t change our home décor every season like people do abroad. At Christmas, everything gets rearranged and refreshed.
Guyanese use this season to freshen their homes: getting new curtains, placing flowers in vases, and becoming overnight decorators to add that splash of colour to brighten the place.
Fraser is originally from Uitvlugt but resides at Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara. She is married and has a three-year-old son.
Painting is also a hallmark of the season, with rugs washed long before the holidays and either reused or replaced with new ones to add extra comfort.
This is the time of year to be joyful and spread cheer wherever we are. It is also a time for spending quality moments at home with family.
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.
Christmas in Guyana remains traditional and old school, with ginger beer and fruits prepared months in advance for curing. Ingredients are stored for making black cake, pepperpot, bread, and other festive foods.
with rosemary oil became the best seller. She branded her products and went about to become a registered business. Fraser’s hair oil was then vetted as safe for use by the relevant authorities, certified and has its own
People often save up to make Christmas at home special, stocking up on all the meats, drinks, and goodies associated with the season.
It is also a time for sharing, caring, and showing love through staff socials and distributing tokens of appreciation for hard work and dedication over the year.
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.
Christmas also means long queues everywhere. Traffic crawls in certain areas of the city, especially downtown
small business, she operates from the confines of her home but has pick-up loca tions in the city and on the West Coast Demerara.
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
She related that being
shopping districts, where vendors outdo themselves, selling everything imaginable.
This season is a busy time, with so much to accomplish in such a short period. By the time Christmas morning arrives, many feel exhausted from doing everything to ensure others enjoy a great holiday.
Christmas in Guyana is about good food and drinks, sharing, and spreading joy—especially to those who need it most—through random acts of kindness.
This year is no different. Women will journey to the city, the markets, and various shops to gather essentials, often carrying heavy bags while braving the humid conditions.
Guyanese go the extra mile during this time, beautifying their homes with new coats of paint. It’s amazing how much a fresh layer of paint can transform and brighten a space.
There is no better feeling than being home for the holidays, surrounded by loved ones and sharing meals prepared with love. Women, daughters, sisters, aunts, and nieces often come together in the kitchen, baking and cooking.
Spending long hours making meals from scratch is part of the joy, as keeping a home takes effort, time, and cooperation.
Christmas in Guyana is a lovely time for celebration, giving back to society, and reflecting on achievements while remaining focused on future progress.
afloat. She added that her vision is to produce top-quality, effective products and she would like to become num-
ucts certified, labelled, and well-packaged.
ed that she is constantly inspired by customers and their reviews and testimo nials of the products, and being a small business isn’t ‘all bed of roses’. It requires hard work, dedication, con sistency and money to stay
The festive season, often described as “a good ole Guyanese Christmas,” draws overseas-based Guyanese back home to enjoy its warmth and traditions.
Guyanese know how to throw a party and bring joy, outdoing themselves in one way or another to show care for loved ones.
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.
Christmas is not only about receiving presents but also the ideal time to give without expecting anything in return. It is a season of love, sharing, and gratitude.
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.
keep going,” she said.
Falana Fraser, entrepreneur.
Favour’s Hair Therapy plant-based products (Yohan Savory photos)
Falana Fraser and her products.
Christmas Tree is a must in Guyana at Christmastime
Spreading cheer from the diaspora
Looking at how two women are giving back to Guyana and holding onto their roots
FOR the last eight years, an incredible initiative has gone unrecognised. Tomorrow Leaders is a programme aimed at empowering underprivileged children across Guyana, especially those in orphanages. Founded by US-based Guyanese businesswoman Diane Innis, Tomorrow Leaders is doing vital work to develop a sense of pride—something Diane says she has never lost, even decades after leaving Guyana.
Diane Innis, co-founder of Candy Express and the inspirational Initiative Tomorrow Leaders, along with her sister Roxanne, has spent decades intertwining her entrepreneurial spirit with a vibrant commitment to giving back to the community. For Diane, Christmas holds a special place—it is a season that not only brings her family together but also reignites her dedication to the children of Guyana, particularly those in orphanages and underprivileged communities.
“I’ve always believed in giving back. It is something my family instilled in me growing up in Albouystown, even when I didn’t realise it was considered a ghetto. We might not have had much, but what we did have, we shared,” she said.
Born and raised in Albouystown—a neighbourhood often labelled as rough—Diane still recalls it as home. “I had no idea I grew up in the ghetto until someone told me,” she said. Recounting her childhood, she shared, “We had a housekeeper, we used knives and forks at meals, and we were taught to present ourselves with pride and dignity.” These values, nurtured by her family, formed the foundation of Diane’s identity and later fuelled her desire to empower others.
Diane moved to the United States as a child, and while the transition wasn’t without challenges, her Guyanese roots remained firmly planted. “Everything I needed to know, I learned in Guyana,” she said. “How to eat properly, dress well, and carry myself with confidence.
family—it was a time to reflect on her blessings and extend them to others.
Determined to make a real impact, Diane founded Tomorrow Leaders, an initiative focused on the youth of Guyana.
When I got to America, I realised just how much my upbringing prepared me for the world.”
In the diaspora, Diane did not simply maintain her cultural traditions—she proudly celebrates them. Christmas became an annual event blending the vibrant spirit of Guyanese festivities with a touch of American flair. Traditional dishes like pepperpot and garlic pork sat alongside turkey and stuffing. But for Diane, the holiday season was more than just food and
“The children are the future of Guyana. If we don’t invest in them, who will?” she said.
“I want them to experience something different. We don’t just serve curry and roti; we introduce them to dishes like Italian lasagne or American-style meatloaf. It’s about broadening their horizons, showing them that there’s a world beyond what they know,” she said.
Leaders, which promises to be a red-carpet affair.
“I want to give these kids an experience they’ll never forget,” she said.
Diane’s passion for giving is deeply rooted in her childhood memories of Guyana. She recalls her family’s
The cornerstone of Tomorrow Leaders is its annual dinner, a grand event where underprivileged children from orphanages are treated like royalty. This is no ordinary affair—it’s a formal gathering complete with fine china and live music, designed to motivate the young participants.
Diane is meticulous in her planning, importing everything from tableware to food from the United States.
The event is not just about the meal—it’s an opportunity to instil confidence and self-worth in the children. Diane often tells them, “If you don’t believe you’re beautiful, why should anyone else? You have to see your value first.”
Despite the growing financial strain—events cost significant sums, much of which comes out of Diane’s own pocket—she remains committed. Plans are already underway for the 10th anniversary of Tomorrow
close-knit nature, where everyone pitched in to support one another.
“We struggled, like any family, but we always came together,” she said.
One story she shared was particularly poignant.
“When I was about 19, a friend told me Albouystown was the ghetto,” she said. “I had no idea! To me, it was just home—a place where we dressed well, used knives and forks at meals, and valued education and etiquette.”
These lessons have
shaped Diane’s approach to life and her work with Tomorrow Leaders.
“I want these kids to know they’re capable of achieving anything. Just because you come from humble beginnings doesn’t mean you’re going to stay there,” she said.
For Diane, Christmas in the diaspora is a blend of tradition and innovation. She ensures her family stays connected to their Guyanese roots, cooking traditional dishes and listening to parang music.
But she also uses the season to teach her children and grandchildren the importance of giving.
“We’ll bake cookies together, but we’ll also pack care packages for the less fortunate,” she said. “It’s important for them to see that Christmas isn’t just about receiving—it’s about giving back.”
This philosophy is at the heart of everything Diane does, from her business ventures to her charitable work. Through Tomorrow Leaders, she hopes to spark hope, showing the children of Guyana that they are valued and capable of greatness.
As Tomorrow Leaders approaches its 10th anniversary, Diane’s vision remains clear.
“I want to expand, to reach more children, and to inspire others to join me in this mission,” she said. For Diane, Christmas is more than just a holiday—it’s a time to reflect on her journey, celebrate her blessings, and recommit to her purpose.
“It’s about love, generosity, and faith,” she said. “And that’s something we can all share, no matter where we are.”
Sister duo Roxanna and Diane Innis
This Christmas at Camp Street Prison
By Michel Outridge
WHEN most people are spending the festive season with their families, loved ones, relatives, neighbours, and friends, there are those behind bars—either serving their sentences or on remand—who will spend another Christmas incarcerated.
As is customary, Pepperpot Magazine annually visits a prison in Guyana to highlight how Christmas is spent there. This year, the reporter visited Camp Street Prison, located at Lot 11-12 Camp Street, Georgetown, and engaged with several inmates housed there.
Anand Narine, who is spending the festive season locked up, told Pepperpot Magazine that this will be his eighth Christmas behind bars. He said he would use the time for self-reflection. The 47-year-old stated that during December, they get an opportunity for a family bonding period, which he looks forward to.
“Seeing my family is what I need at this time. Being able to sit with them, chat, and have a meal means everything to me after so many years of separation,” Narine shared.
The father of two noted that discipline is key in prison. He follows the rules to earn remissions for good behaviour.
“Once I am out of prison, I will do my best not to return. In the meantime, I don’t want to waste any time. I am making use of the skills training available here,” he added.
In addition, he has been taking courses such as family reconciliation. He also works in the prison’s Self-Support section—a daily job he takes seriously. Narine reported that he received four remissions this year as a result of good behaviour and is looking forward to being released soon.
Vidyut Kumar Tulesaram, another inmate, told Pepperpot Magazine that he has spent Christmas at other prisons across the country in previous years, but this year, he is at Camp Street Prison
The 60-year-old noted that Christmas behind bars feels better during the festive season because officers serve food and beverages to the inmates.
Tulesaram shared that he cherishes the family bonding session during this month. “I saw my family, including one of my
two sons. It is comforting and will stay with me throughout the holidays,” he said.
He reported that he and other inmates try to cheer each other up since prison is the last place anyone wants to be at Christmas. Most inmates often find themselves thinking of their families.
Tulesaram noted that the food during the festive season is reminiscent of home-cooked meals, with all the trimmings associated with Christmas.
“This will be my 11th Christmas in prison. I am looking forward to getting out soon. That day, I [will] walk out of here to go home and be with my family… [so] next Christmas, I’ll be home,” he said.
As a gospel singer and musician, Tulesaram uses his talents to entertain fellow inmates by singing carols to lift their spirits. Being skilled in playing the guitar, keyboard, and steelpan, he tries to spread joy through music, especially during Christmas.
“This year, being here in jail, I have mixed feelings. I’ve learned a lot, and it has humbled me. Prison humbles you. Whatever is being offered during the holiday period, I will indulge in and try to make the most of it,” he added.
Tulesaram works as a prison tailor, sewing uniforms for officers. He is well-known and respected among his peers within the prison walls.
Sherwyn Hart told Pepperpot Magazine that while he has grown accustomed to coping while in prison, being away from his family is particularly emotional at this time of the year.
The 41-year-old reported that the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) usually elevates the celebrations at Christmas, providing better food and drinks—non-alcoholic, of course—than the rest of the year.
Hart said he plans to start CXC classes in the new year.
Though he won’t be released anytime soon, he was grateful for a recent visit from his two nephews and his mother.
“I have spent the past 25 years in jail, and I’ve learned that staying focused is the best option behind bars,” he reflected.
Shaquawn Alleyne, another inmate, will be experiencing his first Christmas in jail this year.
The 25-year-old reported that he has been on remand since January. He spends his days engaging in skills training and participating in classes offered at the maximum-security prison.
Alleyne shared that reconnecting with his family during December brought him joy. “That memory of seeing them will
stay with me, especially during the holidays,” he said.
From the Prison Officers
Principal Officer 1, Korwin Wilson of Camp Street Prison, explained that during December, a family bonding event is hosted for one week, allowing inmates to spend time with their families.
“This also happens on Father’s Day. Inmates are allotted 30 minutes to sit, chat, and share a meal with their families during this visit,” Wilson shared.
He added that on Christmas Day, special meals are prepared at Lusignan Prison, East Coast Demerara, and transported to Camp Street Prison. Inmates are treated to festive meals, including meats, fruits, cakes, and beverages associated with the season.
Wilson noted that inmates receive three meals per day, including a piece of fruit with breakfast.
Camp Street Prison, being a maximum-security facility, houses 157 inmates, including one on death row.
Anand Narine
Shaquawn Alleyne
Sherwyn Hart
Vidyut Kumar Tulesaram
A Festive Season at Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home
By Michel Outridge
JUST like any private organisation, Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home, located at Tucville, Georgetown, goes out of its way to ensure the residents of the facility have a good festive season. This year is no different, with plans underway to provide all the traditional Guyanese foods on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, respectively.
Interim Administrator and Committee Member Christine Hales told Pepperpot Magazine that she oversees the daily operations at Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home. She has been a member of the Georgetown Durban Park Lions Club for over 22 years and became associated with the Home shortly after joining the Lions Club.
As is customary, the Home accepts donations and tokens from corporate Guyana, private groups, and citizens to lift the spirits of its residents. Hales added that from the beginning of December, the tone for the season is set by decorating
the facility with Christmas trees, garlands, festive holiday wreaths, and fairy lights decking the halls.
Decorating the Home is an annual event usually undertaken by the Lions Club of Durban Park, although this year, it was done by the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central. During this period, the residents are engaged with indoor games such as dominoes and cards, Christmas music, and sports on television.
Hales disclosed that church groups, children, organisations, and others visit the Home to host concerts during Christmas time. These visitors put on shows, sing carols, and spread cheer, bringing smiles to the faces of the residents. She explained that children from several schools visit and spend quality time interacting with the residents.
“Our residents enjoy meeting and interacting with young people who spend quality time with each of them,” she said.
Hales reported that the meals on Christmas Day and Boxing Day are special-
ly selected so the residents can enjoy all the traditional festive goodies. The annual party for the residents was held on December 19.
She highlighted that recent renovations to the facility have brightened the space, creating a positive impact for the residents. The Committee of Management of the Home expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central and their donors for making it happen.
However, Ms. Hales noted that two of the buildings are in disrepair, and the committee is discussing ways to restore them. Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home currently accommodates 20 residents, comprising 15 men and five women. A condition for entry into the Home is that potential residents should be reasonably able-bodied, with a medical report required upon admission. As
the Home is not a nursing facility, residents must be able to perform basic tasks with staff support and supervision. Residents are required
to pay a monthly fee, which covers their meals, care, and accommodation. Relatives and family members are encouraged to visit and spend
time with them as often as they wish.
The oldest resident, a male who celebrated his 90th birthday in May this year, is visually impaired but still mobile. The facility is privately managed by a board of directors.
Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home will celebrate its 50th anniversary in February 2025, coinciding with the anniversary of its first resident’s move-in. Hales stated that donations are always welcome to assist with the Home’s upkeep, as much work remains to be done.
The Home was officially opened on February 26 1975, by its visionary founder, overseas-based Guyanese Mr. Edward Holford, known as “Uncle Eddie,” who sadly passed away shortly after its opening. Ms. Ivy Edghill was the first resident to move in on June 20 1975.
One of two Christmas trees at Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home
A section of the newly refurbished Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home
‘Uncle Eddie’, the late founder of Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home at Jackson Street, Tucville
Spicing it up this season with a taste of culture
By Shaniya Harding
NO authentic Guyanese Christmas is truly complete without a bottle of something special. As Christmas approaches, Guyanese everywhere are gearing up for the holidays and the celebrations that usher in the new year. If you are looking for something local to bring an extra kick to your festivities, ‘Dixie’s Punch De Crème’ may be just what you’re looking for. With a series of Guyanese-inspired crème liqueurs, Dixie’s hopes to add a taste of tradition to this holiday season.
Dixie Jordan, a 33-yearold entrepreneur from Buxton, has built a vibrant and thriving business that is putting Guyanese flavours on the map. Her journey, shaped by years of training in Trinidad, began unexpectedly during the pandemic when she found herself back in Guyana. Born and raised in Buxton, Dixie spent 15 years in Trinidad, where she learned the art of manufacturing alcohol spirits and working with natural ingredients.
“I used to live in Trinidad, where I was trained and qualified to manufacture and work with alcohol spirits and create products from local natural stuff to create a new flavour. So that’s where my background comes from: manufacturing in Trinidad. I lived in Trinidad for about
15 years, and then I migrated back home four years now,” she explained.
However, her return to Guyana wasn’t originally meant to be permanent. Like so many others, the pandemic caught Dixie in Guyana.
“I didn’t originally migrate back home to stay. I migrated to pass through Guyana during the pandemic. But the pandemic caught
me in Guyana, and then I was here, and I was doing nothing. That’s how I started my business and my brand. I started working from there to create what I have now,” she told Pepperpot Magazine.
Dixie credits Trinidad’s high standards for influencing her work ethic and the quality of her products, as well as the pride she feels in
her all-natural products.
“They have very high standards. They are very patriotic, and they take pride in whatever they do. And when they do it, they want it to be authentic and organic,” she said.
On the other hand, Dixie noticed that many Guyanese often favoured imported goods over local offerings.
“I wanted to use our local products that we have here and create something that Guyanese could be shocked with. This is a local product, and it tastes so good,” she said.
This need for natural products in the market is what shaped Dixie’s Punch De Creme. As she shared, “I wanted to bring back that concept that we have good stuff here, and we can create stuff that people want to have and brag about.”
Dixie’s first step into the crème liqueurs business came when her cousin asked her to make a unique spin on a Trinidadian holiday staple called Punchy Crème.
“Trinidad has a product that they manufacture
of course.’”
One of Dixie’s standout creations is the Capadulla liqueur, which has become her best-seller.
“The most popular is the Capadulla. Capadulla is the aphrodisiac,” Dixie explained. The inspiration for Capadulla came from her customers.
“What I found was people buying liqueurs, and they said if you add Capadulla to this thing, it would be real good. I was like, ‘That is a good idea.’ I went home and contemplated it. I sat down and decided how I was going to extract the flavours from the bark and add it to the linden. I didn’t know how it would react,” she said.
With guidance from one of her trainers in Trinidad, Dixie developed a process to perfect the flavour.
As Christmas approaches, Dixie is excited to see her liqueurs play a role in holiday celebrations.
at Christmas time called Punchy Crème. It is very popular around the Christmas season,” she explained. Her cousin was working on a project for the University of Guyana and wanted to include five different flavours of Punchy Crème.
Putting her creativity and innovation to the test, Dixie successfully created the flavours, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.
“She gave it to people after the project was finished. People were asking if we were selling that. That is how I initially started. She was like, ‘You should sell it.’ I was not working at the time, so I was like, ‘Why not?’”
From there, the business quickly gained traction. As Dixie explained, “The first thing I made was a case of the original. It sold out in a minute. I went to a party, and I took some of the cake and put it on the table. When people tried it, they were like, ‘What is this?’ There was a guy; he was so impressed. He was like, ‘Could you get more?’ I said, ‘Yes,
“Our liqueur is pure Guyanese tradition and culture. The flavours, for instance, the original, is a combination of spices and rum and crème. The flavours remind us of home. It reminds you of Guyana. It reminds you of when you were young and your grandmother used to make porridge. That flour porridge. That kind of flavour that you get with the spices, and you put plenty of milk and that rich, homey vibe,” she said.
She believes her products offer something unique for the season.
“Adding that to your wine or adding that to your alcohol selection or your alcohol bar is only greatness. You can brag and say, ‘Look at this, you know, this fancy thing we have here that is made.’ You can give it to the overseas guys that come home. They come home for holidays. They will love these liqueurs. All of the flavours.”
Dixie sees her liqueurs not just as drinks but as a way to share Guyanese culture with the world.
“Something like this in your alcohol selection will be perfect for Christmas. Perfect for gifting, especially for foreigners. People will come home. They will love you for having one of our liqueurs.”
Dixie alongside one of her famed Capadulla Punch de Cremes (Samuel Maughn photo)
Dixie Jordan (Samuel Maughn photo)
A Gift of Culture
Small business bringing Indigenous heritage to the season
By Shaniya Harding
AS the Christmas season unfolds, the bustling craft shops of Guyana come alive with intricate designs and the promise of meaningful gifts. At the heart of this festive spirit is Unique Amerindian Handicrafts, a family-run business from Santa Aratack Mission, Region Three. Led by the skilled hands and passionate heart of Mayleen Patterson, the shop offers handcrafted treasures.
Speaking to Pepperpot Magazine while advertising her business at Main Street’s Christmas Village, Mayleen shared that aside from September, Christmas is the season when people seek out unique, handmade gifts.
“This time of year is always special for us,” Mayleen shared. “For Christmas, you find people coming to buy gifts—things they want to take back to their hometowns or to share with loved ones. It’s a season of giving, and our products carry a little piece of our culture with them,” she said.
Unique Amerindian Handicrafts specialises in multi-purpose items made from the Ipe palm, a tree native to Guyana’s swampy savannahs. The meticulous crafting process reflects the care and dedication Mayleen and her family pour into their work.
“The first step is going into the savannah to get the fibre,” Mayleen explained. “It has to be stripped, boiled, and then we wait on the weather to get a good colour, like the white. After that, we dye it to create all these vibrant colours,” she explained.
From jewellery boxes to decorative fans, each item is designed to serve as both a practical tool and a meaningful keepsake.
“These products are all multi-purpose,” she added, referring to a delicate jewellery box. “You can use it as décor or for storing treasures. And for Christmas, they make perfect gifts.”
For Mayleen, the story of Unique Amerindian Handicrafts is deeply tied to her family, with the craft being a way of life.
“I was born into this. My mum and dad did this so we could have a good education. Through their hard work, I got my primary, secondary, and even tertiary education,” she shared.
This family legacy continues to thrive, especially during the holidays.
“My father and mother are still a part of the business. They’re here with me, keeping the tradition alive,” she said.
The business also connects with suppliers from various regions to create its unique products.
“We have materials coming from different regions around Guyana. This time of year, everyone works together to meet the Christmas demand,” she said.
Christmas has always been an exciting season for Unique Amerindian Handicrafts. Over the years, Mayleen has seen how the holiday spirit drives interest in her work, with people taking a special interest in unique items during the festive season.
“We used to walk around looking for a place to sell our crafts. Then, someone gave my mum space to stay for a week, and from there, we grew. We even received a grant through the small business group, which helped us build our own craft shop,” she recalled.
Now, the business has grown beyond its humble beginnings.
“We have our main shop in Santa Aratack, but we also have locations in Georgetown,” she said.
For Mayleen, the Christmas season brings more than just sales—it brings opportunities to educate people about her culture.
“A lot of customers don’t realise that our materials come from the Ipe palm and the process behind it. When we explain it, they’re even more interested. It makes our work feel appreciated,” she said.
Handmade gifts carry a unique charm during the
holidays, and Mayleen’s products are no exception. Customers are drawn to the care and tradition behind each piece, making them cherished items for the season of giving.
“For Christmas, people are always looking for something special—something with meaning,” Mayleen said. “Our crafts are more than just items; they’re a way to share our culture and heritage.”
A deep sense of pride and gratitude fuels the holiday rush at Unique Amerindian Handicrafts.
“Christmas is a time for family and giving, and that’s what our business is all about,” she said. “It’s about sharing what we love with others.”
As the business continues to grow, Mayleen remains committed to her mission of preserving her culture and traditions.
“We have a very rich culture here,” she said. “It’s something I want to preserve for generations to come,” she added.
For Mayleen and her family, Christmas is not just about sales; it’s about creating connections. Each handcrafted item represents a piece of their story, making it a gift that truly comes from the heart.
This holiday season, Unique Amerindian Handicrafts reminds us that the best gifts are those that carry meaning and tradition. Through their work, Mayleen and her family keep the spirit of Christmas alive—one handmade treasure at a time.
Mayleen Patterson (Samuel Maughn photo)
One of the handmade pieces made by Unique Amerindian Handicrafts (Samuel Maughn photo)
Spreading Christmas cheer through creative construction projects
- The New Amsterdam Secondary (Multilateral) School is bringing joy to the community
By Marissa Foster
THE New Amsterdam Secondary (Multilateral) School’s (NASS or NAMS)
Industrial Technology Department has been transforming the landscape around the school and the broader community with the students’ skills and talents. The department often executes unique and creative construction projects, proudly displayed on the school’s Facebook page.
The teachers take pride in showcasing their students’ abilities through practical work.
For this festive season, the department embarked on a journey to create innovative Christmas props for the school and community, aiming to spread holiday cheer to everyone who interacts with their projects.
The department is headed by Tamesh Mohabir, alongside teachers Adrian Somar, Arthur Sweinie, Aaron Somar, and RandiniRamdharry.
The department offers a range of courses, including Industrial Arts, CVQ Metal Work, Construction and Electrical Installation, and Design Technology, among others, for students from grades 7 to 13.
For Christmas, the department designed and built three major projects:
1. Five-Point Stars –Symbolising the Star of Bethlehem, guiding the way to the birthplace of Jesus.
2. 3D Nativity Props – Life-sized representations of Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the manger, and animals of the nativity scene, bringing the Christmas story to life for visitors.
3. A 12-foot-tall Christmas Tree – Erected for the New Amsterdam Secondary Christmas Tree Light Up event, adding a grand festive touch to the season.
The two five-point stars and the nativity scene props were created for the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council’s Christmas Village. The nativity scene props were crafted under the supervision of Tamesh Mohabir. Meanwhile,Adrian Somar led the construction of the two five-point stars and the 12foot Christmas tree, which
became the centrepiece of the school’s Christmas Tree Light Up event.
Speaking to Pepperpot Magazine, Mohabir shared what inspired these projects:
“In early November, Mrs. Shoba McIntosh, the Mayor of New Amsterdam, reached out to me asking if my team could assist in creating designs and props for the Christmas Village. Later that same day, our PTA teacher representative, Miss Condolita Jervis, also contacted me about the need for a Christmas tree for the NA Multi Xmas Light Up event. At first, I couldn’t provide an immediate answer, as I needed to consult my team. November is typically one of our busiest months, with graduation events, SBA deadlines, and inter-school sports all demanding attention,” he explained.
After discussing it with the team, they concluded that while the timeline was tight, the Christmas project’s value in spreading joy and creating lasting memories for the community—especially for children—was worth the extra effort.
said.
“We knew it was a special project, and we were committed to completing it, no matter how packed the schedule was,” Mohabir said.
The students’ reaction to the initiative was overwhelmingly positive.
“The students were absolutely thrilled! I think they were even more excited about working on these Christmas projects than on their actual SBA projects,” Mohabir said.
The Christmas season’s symbolism of hope, joy, and renewal fuelled the students’ enthusiasm. Mohabir described the experience as heartwarming, seeing the students come together, pour their energy into their work, and create something meaningful for the community.
Grade 11 student Aditya Deodat shared his thoughts:
“Participating in making props for the Christmas Village was a deeply fulfilling experience. The process allowed creativity and teamwork to take over us. Creating these props provided a sense of the story of Christmas and its message of hope, love, and faith,” he
This was the department’s first time working on projects of this scale, and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Looking ahead, they plan to continue collaborating with the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council on future Christmas Village projects, including additional props and decorations.
They also have plans to partner with the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club for the 2025 Rose Hall Town Christmas Village, with Hilbert Foster already reaching out to initiate discussions.
Beyond holiday-themed projects, the department aims to establish a sustainable initiative by producing handcrafted items for sale.
“We plan to start producing custom furniture such as tables,
chairs, spindles, and bed frames, as well as metalwork pieces like grills, gates, mailboxes, and even cake pans,” Mohabir said.
Their goal is to create a self-sustaining department that provides ongoing opportunities for students while enhancing the community with their craftsmanship.
Students of the Industrial Technology Department posing with the constructed Christmas Tree structure
The welding of Christmas stars done by students of the NAMS’ Industrial Technology Department (Tamesh Mohabir photos)
The New Amsterdam Secondary’s Christmas Tree constructed by the Industrial Technology Department. Credits: Tamesh Mohabir
THE CULTURAL FUSIONS THAT ENVELOPE THE SEASON OF ‘CHRISTMAS’ ARE NECESSARY TO OUR BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF OUR HUMAN WORLD…
For most of us, the records published in books can simplify what may seem overwhelming at some stage in our lives, with events that may eventually become important but may never have been a priority of study in our pursuit of earning. The following is extracted from Alfred Butler’s “The Arab Invasion of Egypt and the Last 30 Years of Roman Dominion”, a profound study that defines the eclipse of one age and the beginning of many others, but most importantly, tells a brief story of Christianity:
“Rome’s challenge to the Greeks and the beginning of the Punic Wars installed an aggressive European power in North Africa for the first time. The ruthlessness of Roman taxation made many North Africans question old gods and turn to new ones. The people of North Africa and Western Asia found some spiritual relief in recalling, through fact or folklore, the story of a crucified saviour. At first, the Romans laughed at the adherents of this new religion, considering them weaklings because this religion preached non-violence and love of your enemies. The Romans began to kill Africans for being Christian. Roman exploitation, taxation, and ruthlessness caused a lot of the original Africans in North Africa to move further into the body of Africa. The question is often asked: What happened to North Africa’s African population? This is part of
the answer. Finally, the Romans stopped persecuting the Africans and became Christian; they then declared war on the African Christians for control of the Church.” Thus began the era of Byzantine rule and the marketing of Christianity as European, ushering in the age of the slave trade.
The above outlines a historical memory rarely discussed with respect to the development of the pre-slave trade era of Christianity. To complete the picture it is worth noting that the pagans of Europe were also persecuted and slaughtered in the conversion to Christendom. The development of Christmas has been shaped by other cultural aspects, which have contributed to a metamorphosis of customs perceived as relevant to the favourable mood and spirit of Christmas.
In Guyana, the masquerade evolved from African cultural influences and symbolisms, supported by Euro-martial instruments. One of the latest books on the subject by Robert Wyndham Nicholls, covering masquerades in the Eastern Caribbean, indicates that what we do in Guyana has an originality of its own. The favourite foods that embody the ‘Christmas/Boxing Day Menu’ reflect contributions from Amerindian, African, East Indian, Portuguese, Chinese, and other cultures—everyone is included.
The language of Christmas past revolved around “Merry Christmas to you and the family,” “Greetings to you and the family,” and gifts directed at the young. Today, over the past two decades, the carol singers are less prominent, there is less sharing, and while gifts are still exchanged, Christmas cards are now less common.
Despite these changes over time, Christmas commands the most active holiday response. It has evolved into a family-centred celebration, more so than any other festival. I wish you and your family a ‘Happy Christmas.’ Enjoy and reflect.
BLACK CROWS FLYING
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.
ANGEL BOY AND THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
God.
How, then, did evil interrupt her life?
No one had an answer.
ly grieving family, who just couldn’t process the fact that she was no more in their lives.
‘And so it’s the time of the year, of goodwill and cheer, Jingle bells and Christmas trees,
ical country where there is always music, laughter, and food with a Caribbean flavour.
A young girl in pain, alone, at the beach in the dead of the night.
What happened to her?
“Fun days those were,” he said to himself.
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.
genip tree.”
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.
The magic and the splendor,
The deep, haunting look in her eyes, the ashen face and colourless lips told a story of something cold.
That’s the Christmas Season.’
‘Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum
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.
On my drum?’
“It’s so good to be home,” he said, more to himself than to the many people walking around. Some answered cheerfully, “It sure is.”
As the car neared his destination in Cummings Lodge, he said to the driver, “Stop by the house with the huge
Their story was that she had received a phone call on the
Aaron stepped out of the car, his heart rejoicing—for he was home after sixteen long years. But the scene that
home in America. He missed his grandmother, her loving care, kind voice, and cosy, freshly scented home. But his mother would not send him
old lady standing at the gate, looking at him curiously.
“Are you looking for someone?” she asked.
He laughed, a feeling of joy in his heart, as he greeted strangers, sang a few lines of Christmas carols with a group nearby, and then went back to his hotel.
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.”
Beautiful songs of Christmas, sparkling coloured lights, and festive decorations—a wondrous spectacle that’s simply magical during the Christmas season.
Tomorrow, he would visit his boyhood home on the East Coast.
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.
Aaron stood in front of the Courts shopping plaza on Main Street and stared admiringly at the spectacular lights adorning that section of the road. He was not a young boy anymore, but even as the young adult he was now, the festivities of Christmas still enthralled him.
He breathed in the fresh, warm air, a luxury for him. There was no snow and cold, just the warmth of this trop-
“It’s been a long time since I was home,” he mused as the taxi drove along the embankment road the next day, passing the breathtakingly beautiful pink and white lilies in the waterways bordering the road.
He remembered the sweet water nuts he used to eat as a little boy when the older boys in the neighbourhood took him fishing there.
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.
Betrayed by those who masqueraded as friends.
“Why? Where is my wrong?” were her soundless, agonising cries.
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.
“I died,” she moaned, “My mother and father have lost their little girl.”
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.
He had looked up at the heavens, his hands clasped, his voice breaking, “Why…why God? Why, my little girl?”
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
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 soul.”
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.
“Yes, I’m looking for my grandmother.”
But they were not aware of her presence. Her mother, though, seemed to sense something and whispered, “Ary-
The family turned to look at her mother, and she broke down crying, “She’s here with us. My baby is here.”
The old lady looked at him for a long moment, perhaps reflecting on something because of his foreign accent. Then she gasped, “Sweet Jesus, it’s little Aaron!”
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
She clapped her hands gleefully and announced loudly, “It’s Aaron!”
A cynical smile played on Aryana’s lips as the viewing began, and she whispered, “It’s showtime.”
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.”
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.
The sky rumbled, the water became restless, and the wind howled as she waited under the mangrove trees.
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.
The dark abyss had answered her call to fight evil with evil.
“For each new day, now,” she vowed, “stones will bleed.”
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-
greeted his eyes dampened his enthusiasm. He stared at the empty land. The house wasn’t there, just a pile of old wooden material and some rusted zinc. The genip tree that had grown old was leaning on the fence, holding onto life, and his grandmother’s prized fruit trees—the sorrel, carambola, and cherries that had once provided tasty local drinks—were now dying from neglect.
“Where did my grandmother’s house go?” he asked quietly, trying to keep a calm mind.
It had been his home since he was a toddler until he turned seven when his mother came and took him away. He had never forgotten his grandmother’s tears that day or the last words she had said with a quivering voice: “God’s blessings be with you, my angel boy, until I see you again.”
He had cried all the way to the airport and remained sad for months in his new
To be continued…
back. As the years passed, one after another, he made a promise to himself that when he came of age and earned enough money, he would return home.
Today was that day, four days before Christmas. But there was no house and no one there. He shook his head in deep despair.
“Dear God,” he exclaimed silently, “what happened here? I waited so long for this day.”
He pushed open the old gate that was hanging on one hinge and stood in the middle of the yard, looking around, an ache in his heart. He was afraid to ask what had happened.
He sighed deeply, knowing he had to face the truth. After a long while, he turned to inquire from the neighbours about his grandmother. Then someone called out to him.
“Young man.” He turned and saw an
He remembered her then—one of Grandma’s close friends. As other neighbours came out to greet him, expressing amazement at how much he had grown, Aaron felt a small spark of happiness rising in his heart. But it was short-lived, for they had a sad story to tell him. His grandmother had grieved for him so much that she had fallen ill. With the help of caring neighbours and prayers, she recovered and continued her little food business outside the yard, shaded by the genip tree. But as she grew older, she became weaker. Family members who visited her occasionally always wanted something and kept taking from her. She eventually became so ill that she had to be taken to a home for the elderly because no family stepped up to care for her. The house started to deteriorate. One night, after heavy rains and high winds, it collapsed.
Aryana watched her killers hurriedly leave and smiled, cold fury in her eyes, “It’s just the beginning.”
Bitter tears rolled down Aaron’s face at the story of her suffering—leaving the only thing of value, she had, her house and his boyhood home, which held so many precious memories.
“This is so bad,” he said, a fiery determination in his eyes to make things right. Though his heart ached, he felt a deep sense of relief that she was still alive.
“I am coming to get you, Grandma,” he said.
REVISITING THE TOPIC OF MANGROVES
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN MUST END
THIS column will again touch on Mangroves because of its importance historically, socially and economically.
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the United Nations-designated “International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women”. It is commemorated in various parts of the world, with their varying cultures and civilisations, and although the manifestations of violence may differ, their underlying core and effect remain the same for the victims. This year, the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) has been at the forefront of the commemoration activities and has underscored new legislation where “there is greater emphasis on prevention, in educating and encouraging women and persons who are aware of violent situations to seek help. In other words, there must be tangible support at the front.” GAWL then demanded that “The Ministry of Education and schools across the country must take immediate action to teach young people the damaging effects of violence and challenge harmful behaviours. The workplace, too, must foster environments of respect where non-violence is not optional but expected.”
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 certain countries, women are treated as chattels owned by their husbands, are precluded from pursuing higher education and professions, are subject to ‘honour kill-
ings’, cannot wear clothing of their choice, are beaten and brutalised at the whims of their husbands, and are secluded from contact with all except their immediate families. In wars and civil conflicts, women and children suffer most by being killed, sexually assaulted, or tortured. While in Guyana and other Western countries, such barbaric behaviour never occurs or is extremely rare, the suffering, the physical harm, and the psychological trauma inflicted on women are qualitatively the same as in non-Western countries.
In Western countries, violence manifests in personal attacks on individual women, for example, when women are returning from work in the evenings or merely walking in the streets, and such attacks often end in robbery, rape, or sexual violence. Another prevalent type is domestic violence, which includes not only spousal violence but also violence between various members of a family, such as between father and daughter, children and mother, or siblings. Such violence ranges from physical brutalisation to psychological pressure and hurt and the constant envelopment of fear among family members. It could also include the denial of basic needs to weaker family members.
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
The police and the law are expected to provide protection and hope to victims of gender violence, but they generally prove inadequate
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
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
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. Mangroveopment goals (SDGs), to the degree that Guyana is seriously
ton 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
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
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN..
FROM PAGE XIII
because they often operate on the underlying assumption that domestic violence is a private matter in which they should not intervene. In cases of violence outside the home, such as rape, the burden of proof is frequently placed on the victim.
Violence against women results in serious societal and economic damage. It is a human rights violation; it negatively affects children, leads to discrimination against women (e.g., lower pay for the same work or being denied promotions), and effectively excludes a large percentage of the population from contributing to the economic productivity and well-being of the country.
In addition to efforts by the state and a few NGOs to confront the problem, we suggest the following:
Many women do not know they are victims of domestic violence because they have never encountered the concept. Once they understand it, they will have a clearer understanding of their plight and realise they can change it. The media and education system must assume responsibility for enlightening the population in this regard.
The laws addressing violence against women need constant review and modernisation, and GAWL could make a valuable contribution.
From the earliest years of schooling, boys should be socialised to respect girls and women and treat them with fairness.
Violence against women is largely a man’s problem, and men should be strongly encouraged to exert peer pressure on one another to treat women with respect and fairness. This could be achieved through sports clubs, NGOs, and business groups.
We end this offering by quoting GAWL’s call to the nation: “Every citizen must stand up and demand change, highlighting that violence against women must end, and it is only through collective action that we can create a safer, more just society for all.”
Managing stress during the Christmas season
Christmas is perhaps the most celebrated holiday across the world. It is often described as the season of joy and grand celebration, but for many people, it can also bring stress, anxiety, and even sadness.
Financial abuse needs more awareness
Firstly, Christmas can be an expensive season. The finan-
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.
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.
cial pressures of gift-giving can be a heavy burden for many. Additionally, there is the tradition of Christmas cleaning, which is physically challenging for most people. During this time, workplaces often have expectations to meet year-end deadlines. The demands of the season can become overwhelm-
ing, taking a toll on one’s mental health. Many might say that prioritising mental health during the season is almost impossible, but I beg to differ.
As you read this column on the Sunday before Christmas, I hope you take into consideration some of the tips I will mention in this week’s piece. I am here to tell you that you can and should prioritise your mental health during the Christmas season.
You can start by prioritising your events and activities. The holiday season can present an overwhelming number of events and parties, but you do not have to attend every single one of them. It is okay to say no, especially if you are not feeling your best.
Perhaps the most stressful part for many is the financial strain of the holiday season. To ease this, set a budget—especially for gift-giving, decorations, and outfits—and stick to it. I make a list of items I want from specific stores and take only the exact amount of cash I need. This helps me focus on buying only the things I planned for.
Amidst the chaos of the Christmas rush, you should also prioritise self-care. Do not put your favourite hobbies or activities on hold simply because it is the Christmas season. Whether it is going to the gym or reading a book, continue doing the things that improve your mental or emotional well-being.
Planning is also key to avoiding the Christmas rush, especially when it comes to shopping. While it might be too late for this advice now, consider it for next year’s Christmas. Last-minute schedules often lead to unnecessary stress. Staying organised by creating lists can ensure you avoid flustering over tasks all at once.
Another piece of advice is to step away from social media— especially that Pinterest board you have been curating all year. On social media, people tend to post their gifts, decorations, and accomplishments, which can lead to internal comparisons. If you find yourself feeling less than others based on what you see online, this can contribute to stress and a decline in mental health.
As you spend your Sunday anxiously awaiting the Christmas week, I hope you take some of these suggestions into consideration. Start with self-care or some well-deserved rest and relaxation.
Finally, if you are unable to meet the demands of the season, remember that it is okay to ask for help. You can reach out to family members or friends to assist with tasks you cannot manage alone. If you have the resources, you can hire someone to help with cleaning or use delivery services to purchase gifts, avoiding heavy traffic.
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.
If the holiday season is taking a severe toll on your mental health and you are struggling to cope, seek professional support or mental health advice.
We often stress during the holidays, but it is essential to remember the true meaning of Christmas. It is a beautiful season to reconnect with family and friends, to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and to reflect on all we have to be grateful for.
With that in mind, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope you spend the week ahead being kind to yourself and your mental health.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
son. Graces, Laughter.
STUDY SUCCESS
Dear Student, Welcome dear reading friend. To train yourself to grasp the overall organisation of a passage and its main ideas, you need to recognise the structure of the text in concern. But that is not all, you need also the ability to extract and note its main ideas. All this care is necessary because if you ever must compare several notes made on a text, you will recognise the most common mistakes made when taking notes and not be surprised. Be wise.
Love you.
DECEMBER 22, 2024
THE PASSAGE
1. Summarising the passage
Note: To summarise a passage is to arrive at a short retelling of it. The summary must contain the author’s most important ideas. Doing summaries helps you improve both your reading and writing skills. To summarise, you must first read the passage thoroughly, searching for the main ideas and supporting ideas in all its sections. Then, write a seamless summary and compare it against the original text.
The following steps will get you there: read and take notes carefully on foremost points, start your writing with an introductory sentence, then collate your points into a smooth organised response, and maybe you conclude by restating the author’s view.
Read carefully the following extract and then summarise the MAJOR factors which ascribe to the disadvantages encountered by women in the labour market.
Your summary must be in continuous prose, in paragraph form and it must not be more than 120 words in length. [At your examination, only the first 120 words of your answer will be read and assessed.]
Despite their increasing participation in the labour market, women are still disadvantaged in the mainstream of economic life. With limited access to stable and well-paid employment, their participation is often confined to ‘feminine’ work: to low-paid, less visible jobs in the informal sector and to subsistence agriculture. Globally, women earn 20 to 30 per cent less than men while women make up 70 per cent of the world’s more than 1 billion absolute poor.
In most regions of the world, female enrolment in secondary level, technical and vocational education programmes represents less than half of the total. When girls opt for vocational courses, they tend to choose fields that are considered more ‘feminine’ and less technical, thus narrowing their employment prospects. Socio-cultural factors play an important role in the attitudes of employers, teachers, parents and the girls themselves.
In poor countries, access to any type of secondary or post-secondary education for disadvantaged girls is often limited by entrance requirements and the cost of courses. In the non-formal sector, there are numerous programmes provided by non-governmental organisations to enhance capacities for income generation among poor out-of-school girls. It is often difficult to assess the impact of such training on the lives of trainees due to the lack of systematic monitoring and reporting. Depend-
ing on how such programmes are designed, there could also be a danger of reinforcing existing gender roles and biases, especially where programmes do not offer training in profitable areas of work.
(Niki Nozenva, “Reaching Out to Marginalised Girls”)
THE PASSAGE
2. Reading to answer questions
Read the following extract carefully and then answer all the questions set on it.
.....“S-t-e-a-m-boat a-comin’!” and the scene changes! The town drunkard stirs, the clerks wake up, furious clatter of drays follows, every house and store pours out a human contribution, and all in a twinkling, the dead town is alive and moving. Drays, carts, men, boys, all go hurrying from many quarters to a common centre, the wharf. Assembled there, the people fastened their eyes upon the coming boat as on a wonder they are seeing for the first time. And the boat is rather a handsome sight, too. She is long and sharp and trim and pretty; she has two tall, fancy-topped chimneys, with a gilded device of some kind swung between them; a fanciful pilothouse, all glass and ‘gingerbread’....; the paddle boxes are gorgeous with a picture or with gilded rays above the boat’s name; the boiler deck, the hurricane deck, and the Texas deck are fenced and ornamented with clean white railings..... Then such a scramble to get aboard, and to get ashore, and to take in freight and to discharge freight, all at one and the same time; and such a yelling and cursing as the mates facilitate it all with! Then minutes later the steamer is under way again..... (Mark Twain’s “Life on the Mississippi” (Signet, 1961))
1. Give the meaning of the words and phrases enlisted below:
Furious clatter, pours out a human contribution, pilothouse, twinkling, wonder, handsome sight, paddle-boxes, gilded.
2. Name the “common centre” in this description.
3. There is more to the steamboat than its physical description. Explain.
(a) Do research on steamboats for what could not have been included in this abridged description.
(b) Start with what is given such as chimneys, decks, and others.
(c) Get the names and description of other fanciful parts of a steamboat of that time plying the Mississippi River.
4. Write a letter to a friend telling him or her about Twain’s exquisite writing about a small town and a beautiful steamboat on the Mississippi River. Include, if possible, a picture of a beautiful steamboat for him or her to see.
5. If you love sketching, make one for Mark Twain’s steamboat, and name the parts that are mentioned in Twain’s description.
GRAMMAR
1. These sentences are for your quick revision. (a). I have never (went, gone) by train. (b). Henry Gilbert is much older than (I, me). (c). We were (learned, taught) how to speak English correctly.
(d). The very slim boy could neither read (or, nor) write.
(e). (Who, Whom) do you wish to meet first? (f). How (quick, quickly) the time of year has passed!
(g). We waited (upon, for) her mother at the school entrance.
(h). Between you and (I, me), someone must have taken it.
(i). He divided the soursop (between, among) his six sisters.
How bad is dental treatment?
DENTAL patients need to know that dental treatment is not without its fair share of adversities. So, even though many patients leave the dental office chewing and looking much better than before they went, some degree of negative impact on the rest of their body may result from their treatment.
Conventional dentistry has certainly helped a great number of people to enjoy good dental function for many years now because it respects the fact that the mouth is an integrated part of the entire body and that it should always be viewed and treated in this respect. Its primary aim is to resolve a patient’s dental problems while impacting the rest of the body as little as possible.
The negative medical impact of dentistry can come from several sources. Among the most common are mercury from amalgam fillings and bacterial toxins from root canal therapy. Commonly known as silver fillings or just amalgam fillings, these fillings should be called mercury fillings since mercury has been and remains a full 50% of their content. Patients must be told that if an old filling is being removed, the filings should be spat out immediately to minimise exposure to mercury. I have ceased using amalgam fillings in my practice for many years, and I suspect that this may be a rapidly growing trend.
Unfortunately, dentistry continues to evaluate new dental materials primarily, and sometimes exclusively, by their mechanical characteristics. Insufficient effort is given to evaluating whether a given material will have a long-term adverse effect on the patient. Stainless steel and other materials continue to be used in the mouth even though some studies seem to indicate that they could be implicated in causing cancer. After all, this has proven to be the case elsewhere in the body.
Root canal-treated teeth are proving to be infected at times, and the toxins that have been isolated from them are often incredibly potent. Although it has not been conclusive, some researchers claim there is a
strong correlation between the presence of root canals and the development of cancer and heart disease. It appears that the longer canal-treated teeth stay in the body, the more the immune system becomes compromised.
Pockets of gangrene in the jawbone are often found in sites of previous extractions. These toxins are essentially the same as those found in root canals, being the product of aerobic mouth bacteria being forced to live in an anaerobic environ-
ment. There are dentists who still think cavitations do not exist, even though they have been shown to be extremely common, especially at the sites of wisdom teeth extractions.
Currently, implants continue to be done without rigorous biocompatibility testing, and they are often started at extraction sites where cavitations are already developing. Autoimmune diseases seem to be, at times, aggravated or even initiated by implants.
