Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot E-Paper 24-08-2025

Grateful for growth - Triumph Farmer Builds a Model Pork Enterprise

By Michel Outridge

AT the backlands of Triumph, East Coast Demerara, David “Davo” Sital has turned adversity into achievement, establishing one of the most respected small-scale swine operations in the area. Known for his attention to hygiene, record-keeping, and the production of quality pork, his farm today stands as both a family legacy and a model of resilience.

Sital comes from a generation of swine farmers — his grandparents raised pigs, and he has continued in their footsteps. “I grew up seeing what pig farming meant to my family, and I always wanted to improve on it,” he explained. This commitment is reflected in the meticulous farm records he maintains, Turn to page XI

Bold, Graceful, Guyanese

Bold, Graceful, Guyanese

By Shaniya Harding

EARLIER this month, two young Guyanese took the nation’s name to the international stage with bold looks, grace, and poise at the Fashion Face of the Caribbean model convention. Guyanese models Shauntaé Washington and David Loncke represented Guyana with distinction; Shauntaé walked away as the first-place winner, and David secured a spot in the top 10.

In an interview with Pepperpot Magazine this week, the duo shared their experience representing their homeland among other Caribbean nations, the hurdles they faced during the competition

Models Shauntaé Washington and David Loncke Shine on the Caribbean Runway

do was to say, ‘If they don't like what you represent, give them something substantial.’”

She added: “My mother got me my first pair of platform heels at 14. I went to a school event, and everybody was absolutely in shock, because they usually teased me for my height, and I actually came taller. I started modelling at 17, just after I got out of school, and I've been doing it ever since.”

Fellow model and psychologist David Loncke has always loved fashion but never truly embraced it until others urged him to. The multi-faceted 28-year-old is a passionate advocate for

had the height and the look, and eventually, I decided to give it a try. I started doing small shows locally and some shoots with local photographers, and from there it just grew. Modelling gave me a chance to express myself in a way I never thought I could.”

Confidence on the Caribbean Runway Fashion Face of the Caribbean is perhaps the biggest modelling competition in the region. This year’s edition saw more than 70 contestants from across the Caribbean vying for the top spot. Hosted in Jamaica by renowned model agent Deiwght Peters and his boutique modelling

and within the industry, and what it means to walk in style and grace against the odds.

Meet Guyana’s Rising Fashion Voices

Shauntaé Washington may not be a name you know just yet, but it is one making waves across the fashion and modelling industry. The vibrant, family-oriented 25-year-old began modelling at just 17, a choice she said was inspired by her journey of overcoming bullying as a teenager.

“As a teenager, I was bullied for my height, the colour of my skin, and the length of my hair. And instead of my mother trying to remedy it, to make me fit in the crowd, what my mother decided to

men’s mental health and healthy masculinity.

Fashion, he said, became a catalyst not only for self-development but also for self-expression. “I grew up in a small village called Queenstown on the Essequibo Coast. I was always fascinated by fashion, but honestly, I didn’t see myself as a model at first,” he shared. “People always told me I

she said. “I remember the incredible welcome of the other delegates, the other females I had to work with.

agency Saint International, the competition highlights the very best of the region’s talent.

Despite the high-stakes nature of the event, Shauntaé described her experience as one of the most enlightening of her life. It gave her the opportunity to meet some of the industry’s biggest names. “As a little Guyanese girl, it was absolutely mind-blowing,”

I was the oldest female competitor, and at no moment did I feel shunned. We were allowed to be our most authentic selves. And I think that was so, so beautiful to be a part of the competition. It was a lot of work, but we didn't feel alone when we had to do it.”

David shared similar sentiments while also highlighting the work that happened behind the scenes. Before the two could hit the runway with style and poise, there were countless challenges to overcome.

Describing the event as

intense, David revealed that both he and Shauntaé had to put their lives on hold. “I landed in Jamaica on the Tuesday before the show, and rehearsals had already been happening for weeks. We had to catch up really fast. Every day was rehearsals, fittings, interviews.”

He added, “The speed round with the agents was nerve-racking, because these are people who work with the biggest names in fashion. You sit across from them, and you have a few minutes to impress, to make them see you. It forces you to bring your confidence forward, even if you’re nervous inside. But being surrounded by so many Turn to page XVII

From Nothing to Something

– First-ever Medex of Baramita passionate about his job

By Michel Outridge

IT was with the perfect dose of encouragement, willpower, and self-dedication that Akeem Henry pushed himself to achieve new academic heights.

He is the first-ever Medex to return to his remote village of Baramita, Region One (Barima-Waini), to serve the people, who are very proud of his recent achievements in the medical profession. Henry described his journey to success as long and very challenging, but he

persevered due to his diligence.

Narrating his academic stance, he told Pepperpot Magazine that he dropped out of high school due to the passing of his mother. He was attending high school at Port Kaituma, in the Northwest District, also in Region One. In 2013, after his mother’s death, he entered the workforce, joining the mining sector.

He got a rude awakening when he had an accident that caused him to seek medical attention. There, the then Medex Barnes (only name

given), while treating him, encouraged him to pursue a career in the medical field, to help his people, descendants of the Carib tribe.

As a native of Baramita, Henry’s first language is their dialect, followed by English, so he understands the needs of the people and their disadvantages due to the language barrier. That stirred him to think about it, and his grandmother's words further supported his thoughts. Growing up as the eldest of six siblings, he felt the need to realise that goal.

Initially, he wanted to become self-employed and start a small business to earn a living, but after his accident, he realised the realities of life and reconsidered his options for a better career.

Henry knew the people needed him, and he set about achieving that goal of becoming a Medex — one that was by no means easy.

He applied to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Region One to become a Community Health Worker (CHW), which served as a stepping stone for him.

After completing that six-month course in the city, he returned to Baramita Village to work at the then Health Post for about five years in that capacity.

While working as a CHW, he recognised the need to upgrade his academic skills because he recognised the need for an in-house Medex — one who knows their language to break the barrier and be able to diagnose and treat them more effectively.

Henry told Pepperpot Magazine that he relocated to Mabaruma to study for about two years to sit the CXC exams, as he needed to pass at least five subjects to enter the Medex programme.

He stayed at the Government Hostel in Mabaruma and worked full-time while studying via textbooks and with the help of teachers he knew.

Henry explained that he had to work to pay for his living expenses and classes, which he did privately. It was challenging, but a few teachers assisted him along the way.

He added that he was finally able to sit the exam, and when the results came out, he learnt that he had passed five subjects at CXC. He was happy with that outcome.

Henry then applied to the Ministry of Health (MOH) via the Health Sciences Education programme in Kingston, Georgetown, to become a Medex. He was accepted and underwent four years of training in the city.

He related that he stayed at the Tertiary Hinterland Dormitory in Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, and had to commute daily via public transportation, while also catering to his own meals, among other things.

Henry said the journey of becoming a Medex was by no means easy, and he endured a lot to reach that level. He will not disappoint himself or the people who depend on him to provide a good service.

He was set to return to Baramita Village on August 20, 2025, where he would begin working under a doctor and the current Medex for six weeks, after which a report would be submitted to the MOH.

Following this review, he will work independently, serving as the Medex in charge of the upgraded

“As a native of Baramita, it is a dream realised for me, something I achieved through sacrifice, challenges and hardships. It is a true representation of what I am capable of, and this happened because I had people talk to me, the ones who believed in me and gave me that encouragement I desperately needed at that time,” he said.

Henry pointed out that there are things he would like to do, such as promoting education and health awareness in the community, taking it step by step until he can do more within his capacity.

He believes that the moral support he received was what kept him going, and he is very thankful to the people who helped him along his journey to becoming the first-ever Medex of Baramita.

Henry added that Leslyn Holder is one of his motivators, as she assisted him, and he is very grateful for it.

“If you believe in yourself, like I did, you can do it. It will be challenging, but it happened for me and the same can happen for you if you apply yourself and set standards,” he said.

From Unemployed to an Agro-Processor

– Empowered to Succeed

By Michel Outridge

DESPITE challenges,

Saskia Mack from the remote village of Massara, North Rupununi, has navigated hurdles to make a living as a female farmer of both hot and sweet peppers.

With a 12-year-old son,

who will be attending secondary school in September this year, Mack wanted to start a small business where she could have an income, no matter how small, to contribute towards her child’s education.

She told Pepperpot Magazine that she is a housewife

turned small business owner, producing homemade fresh pepper sauce, sauces, pickled pepper, and Chikiti (dried pepper) to sell.

Mack explained that she wanted to garner funds to buy her son new school supplies for the term. Sending him to school to get a secondary

Saskia Mack, demonstrating the sun-dried process of peppers before they are processed

education is her top priority as a mother.

Being her only child, she wants to provide him with the opportunity to learn at the secondary level, and she will do whatever it takes to ensure he is well-equipped to attend school come September.

Mack said her husband, Orin Merriman, is the farmer; he cultivates the peppers, but she would assist him occasionally. She initially had a small kitchen garden, but they later planted 100 roots of wiri wiri peppers.

The entrepreneur/ agro-processor stated that after cultivating peppers, she got the idea to make pickles, pepper sauce, and Chikiti to earn, since she was previously unemployed.

She would sell her prod-

ucts from home or hire a motorcycle for the day, in which the motorist would take her around to several villages, including Rupertee, Annai, Yupukari, and others, to sell on Market Day.

Mack reported that an agency affiliated with the current administration recently gifted her two blenders to enhance her pepper sauce-making, and she is very happy about the donation, which is boosting her productivity.

Instead of grinding peppers by hand via a hand-mill, she now utilises the electrical blenders, which are faster. “I want to expand, to produce more, to earn a bit more, so I have a plot of land which needs to be developed, but I need help to do it. My desire

is to plant more, so my harvest can be bountiful and I can provide for my family,” she said.

Mack related that her husband is by her side. He does all the farm work — cultivating and everything — and she is thankful for him.

She is also very pleased that her 12-year-old son will be attending secondary school, and she is very proud of him.

Mack is a very determined hot pepper farmer who has been growing for just over a year now to bring an income to the home.

However, during the dry spell in North Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), and other unforeseen setbacks, Turn to page XII

Building Independence Through Ducks

Building Independence Through Ducks

By Michel Outridge

WHEN Zenith “Jenny” Persaud decided to rear ducks nearly two decades ago, she had no prior experience in poultry production. What she did have, however, was determination to achieve financial independence and provide for her young family.

Today, she is the proud owner of Zenith Farm, a registered agribusiness located on Agriculture Road, Triumph, East Coast Demerara, and one of the largest small-scale Muscovy duck enterprises in the country.

Persaud’s journey began

modestly with just 25 ducklings. Motivated by a desire to supplement her household’s income at a time when finances were uncertain, she saved diligently and invested in her first stock. “I always wanted to be independent as a woman,” she recalled. “I didn’t want to depend entirely on my spouse; I wanted to contribute.”

From those small beginnings, the farm has grown into an operation with over 4,000 breeders, producing both eggs and meat. Plucked ducks from Zenith Farm supply major wholesale buyers, including Massy and Bounty Supermarkets, while duck-

lings and fertile eggs are also available for sale.

Technical Growth Through GLDA Support

Persaud openly acknowledges that she lacked formal knowledge of duck production systems when she started. Her transformation into a leading duck producer was made possible through consistent technical support from the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA).

GLDA’s specialists introduced her to proper feeding regimes, breeding techniques, deworming

Turn to page VII

How One Farmer Grew a Model Muscovy Duck Enterprise

Building Independence...

Building Independence...

protocols, and egg- storage methods. The agency initially assisted with incubation services before she established her own inhouse hatchery. Over time, Persaud’s production system expanded from simple rearing to a complete cycle of breeding, post-harvest processing, incubation, and hatchery management.

Today, this integrated system not only reduces her reliance on government support but also positions her as a significant contributor to Guyana’s rapidly expanding duck industry, which is experiencing heightened demand due to rising disposable incomes and growth in the tourism sector.

Why Muscovy Ducks?

The Muscovy duck remains Persaud’s breed of choice. Known for its lean meat, adaptability, and popularity among Guyanese consumers, the Muscovy is the preferred table bird for local households, restaurants, and special occasions.

Food Safety and HACCP Compliance

Persaud is equally committed to ensuring that her products meet international food safety standards. At her farm, processing is guided by Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles.

HACCP is a systematic food-safety management approach designed to identify, evaluate, and control potential hazards throughout the production chain— from live-bird handling to processing, packaging, and distribution.

For poultry production, HACCP ensures that risks such as microbial contamination, poor handling, or unsafe storage are effectively minimised.

By adhering to HACCP-based methods, Persaud guarantees that her ducks are not only high quality but also safe for consumption, aligning her farm with Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and supporting Guyana’s broader efforts to strengthen food safety standards.

Her farm features a modern plucking system, hygienic processing areas, structured waste management, and regular sanitation schedules. Every 14 weeks,

once production cycles are completed, all pens undergo thorough cleaning to maintain optimal conditions.

Empowering Her Children Through Agriculture

For Persaud, farming has always been about more than income — it has been about empowerment. With the support of her spouse, she used her duck business to ensure her four children received the best education possible. Today, her daughters are professionals — one an engineer and the other an accountant — while her two sons are successful building contractors. “This farm helped me to raise my children and provide for my home,” Persaud reflected with pride. “Despite the struggles over the years, today I can say it was worth it. I am proud of what I have built and what my children have become.”

Expanding Beyond Ducks

While Muscovy ducks remain the flagship of Zenith Farm, Persaud has also ventured into other poultry lines. Recently, she began rearing 500 Black Giant chickens for egg production, marking her first steps into diversified poultry farming.

A Model for Guyana’s Duck Industry

Zenith Farm stands as a case study of how women in agriculture, when supported with training and technical guidance, can scale from micro-enterprises to highly productive agribusinesses. By developing her own breeding stock, incubation system, and HACCP-compliant processing facility, Persaud is not only advancing her family’s livelihood but also contributing to the competitiveness and sustainability of Guyana’s duck industry, which has become a vital sector in meeting domestic and tourism-related demand.

Her story illustrates the power of persistence, family support, and innovation — showing that with the right training, technical assistance, and commitment, small farmers, especially women, can play a transformative role in Guyana’s agricultural modernisation.

Some of the ducklings for sale

LEADING AN ORGANISATION TO SUCCESS

LIFE and death are certain on this earth. Success and failure are also certain for humans and organisations. Many organisations have successes and, likewise, failures. There are various reasons organisations fail, but failure may not be the final destination. Some people settle for this uncomfortable position of failure, while others view it as a

temporary state that allows for reevaluation and ultimately leads to a change in course, resulting in success.

CORPORATE LEVEL

Success can be possible for all organisations. However, each organisation must plan for success. An organisation can plan for success by establishing its vision and mission.

Small organisations often do not develop vision and mission statements, but medium- and large-sized organisations should establish these statements. The vision and mission statements should provide room for flexibility and encompass the entire organisation. Strategically placing these statements in areas visible to employees will help them become famil-

iar with the organisation's direction. On some occasions, it will be advisable to discuss with or educate employees about the direction and intention of the organisation.

When an organisation establishes its vision and mission statements, it must disaggregate functional policies, structures, and product output so that workable guidelines for its employees can aid in the accomplishment of definable goals.

The organisation must establish goals and make provisions to give guidance to its employees. These goals should be further disaggregated into objectives that provide measurable indicators, allowing employees to know what they are working towards. When employees are cognisant of an entity’s objectives, they can align their efforts with the organisation’s definition of success.

The management of the organisation must develop plans that are most suited to meeting the established goals and objectives. When management ensures that its key success factors are known and readily available, then it has another resource that will help the organisation become a winner.

Threats and opportunities must be carefully analysed

and capitalised on – they must not be ignored. An organisation must also know if it is making the best financial decision. This information should be made available through the management accounts, as well as in compliance with relevant policies and strategies.

TACTICAL-LEVEL INVOLVEMENT

Employees at the tactical level often play a very great part within any organisation. They are able to take the direction of their senior officers and work with their juniors to deliver the desired results. Often, when junior employees face challenges, they will pass this information on to their supervisor, who occupies a tactical level.

Officers at the tactical level must be good communicators and coordinators. When junior employees do not understand the organisation's vision and choose to act independently, it is the tactical-level officers who need to guide them in the right direction.

Each organisation working towards success must establish goals, objectives, strategies, and other key elements. However, simply establishing these policies will not yield the success that the

organisation wants. People and machinery performance must be monitored. When performances are measured, a feedback system must be in place, and efforts must be made to correct areas that are not delivering the best results.

While managing machinery and computers may be straightforward, managing employees may require greater attention. When dealing with people, supervisors must have an understanding of the individual. People love to feel valued and rewarded for good work. Treat employees well and see your organisation become successful. Every employee desires the opportunity to prove themselves worthy of the position they hold and aspire to. You may never know what some employees can do until you give them a chance. Each person is made differently, and when allowed to exercise their skills, they may outperform the previous person and contribute great value to your organisation.

Managers are unable to do everything all by themselves. Therefore, there may be a need to choose a winning team. When a winning team has been identified, established, and given the right Turn to page XVI

Angels Walk the Earth

ANIL closed the umbrella as the rain eased to a drizzle, standing in wet conditions at the car park, sourcing passengers travelling to Georgetown. He was one of the many hire car drivers parked since early morning at the Old Stelling Road in New Amsterdam.

The consistent rainfall was bad for the workday, but it was his livelihood, and patience was a key part of his line of work. He had two passengers and needed two more almost an hour ago. The drizzle became heavier, and he said to himself, “Maybe I should just move on with these two passengers, drop off the two packages I collected and cut my losses for the day. At least I will be able to fill up back my tank.”

He knew from experience that not all days were good days.

He was walking to his car when an elderly African woman alighted from a short-drop car. All the drivers rushed to her, but she wasn’t travelling. She just wanted a small bag dropped off at Plaisance on the East Coast. No one wanted to take it because of the bad weather, and that

was compounded by the fact that she wasn’t willing to pay anything extra.

She stood there, looking around helplessly, and as Anil began to pull out of the park, she raised her hand and stopped him.

“Please, son, this box is very important for my granddaughter. She’s pregnant and expecting her baby soon, but I can’t travel until next week.”

She had that kind of gentle, motherly air, and the worried look on her face was something Anil couldn’t say ‘No’ to. It was a teaching he grew up with: always to show care and lend a helping hand to those who needed it. He took the box and the directions and, as she pulled out of the park, she said, “Thank you, son. God will bless you.”

“Yep,” Anil said with a little smile, “We all need His blessings.”

Not far after passing Rosignol, he picked up one passenger and another at Bath Settlement. He now had a full load and said to himself, “Grandma’s blessings are working, bai.”

On the way, he got into

an interesting conversation with the passenger in the front seat, a stout guy who did business in the city. The man was an ardent cricket fan and an expert in betting on the game.

“So what yuh think about

“Is cricket, muh fren, anything could happen.”

“Like de last five finals,” a passenger from the backseat quipped in.

“Ah man mek some good money on da last final,” the passenger who answered to

until Fat Man settled down and started to snooze. One passenger stopped off at Enmore, and another at Golden Grove; the journey continued in silence until they reached Plaisance. Anil asked to be excused for a couple of min-

de Warriors’ team picked for CPL?” Anil asked him.

“Looks good to me,” he answered. “Not sure dem can mek it to de finals though.”

“Why yuh say that?”

the name ‘Fat Man’ said, “Because ah bet against the Warriors.”

The conversation between the two passengers continued about the game

utes to drop off the box the elderly woman had given him. He followed a street that wasn’t quite good, turned at the third corner and stopped by a flat, unpainted concrete

house.

“Don’t tek too long,” Fat Man urged him. “Ah got people waiting in town fuh me.”

“Yeah man, just have to drop off this box.”

Anil called at the gate, but no one answered until the third call. A heavily pregnant young girl, not more than eighteen, came out of the house and walked slowly to open the gate. She received the box with a warm “Thank you,” and as Anil walked back to his car, he heard a loud gasp and the sound of the box falling to the ground. He turned around immediately and saw the girl bending over a little, holding her abdomen.

“Are you okay?”

“I—I think my water just broke.”

“What?!” Anil exclaimed and called for someone from inside the house, but no one answered.

“Nobody else at home?”

“N-no,” she answered.

She tried walking back to the house but her legs seemed weak, and she stretched her hand out for help.

Anil opened the gate to help her and Fat Man called Turn to page XXVIII

THE MULTIPLE SEASONS OF POST EMANCIPATION

THE overall attitude of post-emancipation can be translated into several expressions. Among the indentured peoples that the English Plantocracy embraced were the Portuguese, who had failed as plantation field workers, and whom the Plantocracy intended to use to deter Africans from returning to the plantations, whose fortunes were slowly declining due to the introduction of the industrial era, among other factors.

The British Governors were eager to support the plantation owners in the process of denying former slaves, who were still without land, the opportunity to acquire it.

The purchased lands were subject to heavy taxes, and the Colonial state declined to undertake

the agreed-upon tasks that accompanied the taxes, which became the responsibility of the state, including drainage works, etc.

Taxation was also heavily imposed on the imports that the common man required, including wheat flour, cornmeal, codfish, soap, and candles. This kind of discriminatory taxation bore very heavily on the Creole working people.

Because of the great hardships generated by this impost, it aroused considerable hostility not only towards the Portuguese but also towards its chief architect, Governor Philip Wodehouse, against whom the Creoles vented their anger by stoning him on his way to the Stabroek Wharf in July 1857.

This punitive tax was mercifully repealed in 1858 after much orches-

trated protest from the missionaries and other local pressure groups, as well as the Anti-Slavery groups in Britain.

The era of prejudice directed at the Creole was founded on the secret intent to have control of the Creole population at all levels, through diminishing their livelihoods and ambitions.

“The Pajama managers of the new mining industry” were replaced by the risk-taking “Creole Pork-knockers” who would themselves witness the same transition of mining labour branching out on its own initiative, to cease exploitation.

What is extremely important, however, is that while Africans recognised the planters’ plight, they did not concede the planters’ assumed rights to attack their living standards

and the freedom for which they had fought and won. What the villagers were adamant about defending was the value of their lives and the worthiness of their efforts to sustain their families.

In 1900, the lot of urban and rural workers was inevitable: the cost of living was high, while wages were low and stationary. The working day was long and there was a high level of unemployment. There were no trade unions, no political representation.

The Government was indifferent. It was against this attitude that the trade union movement was born. One must not forget that emancipation evolved in the air of several hundred years of twisted racist belief systems that were used to justify planter rights as superior.

Such dogmas had religious concoctions that justified both slavery and colonisation. Racism played a significant role at all times, including the Independence era.

It is essential to note, however, that only a small minority of Creoles achieved significant upward mobility – notably doctors and lawyers, those who became civil servants, teachers, priests, policemen, and clerks.

Civil servants entered the middle class, alongside skilled artisans and craftsmen, and seamstresses. However, the vast majority of Creoles remained working class, struggling to make ends meet. Many did not survive the hardships of life in the racist colonial society.

(See Themes in African-Guyanese History by Brian L. Moore).

Grateful for growth

documenting breeding, feeding, health management, and sales. The system not only strengthens efficiency but also ensures transparency for regulators and buyers.

His entry into farming was not without challenges. He began in Lusignan but was forced to relocate following disputes with residents.

dedicated gestation areas and farrowing crates, while its breeding programme has already boosted productivity.

He is preparing to join GLDA’s artificial insemination (AI) initiative, which will further enhance his herd’s genetics once he acquires additional female stock.

Feeding practices, Si -

Turning to his ancestral land in Triumph, he faced swamplike terrain that was considered unsuitable for livestock. With government land-clearing assistance and his own investment in land-filling, pens, and infrastructure, he transformed the area into a thriving farmstead.

“The relocation drained my savings, but giving up was never an option,” Sital recalled. Restarting with 40 pigs in 2021, his herd has since grown to 180, supported by improved biosecurity measures and guidance from the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA).

Today, his operation is fully registered with the GLDA and adheres to strict welfare and food safety standards. The farm features

tal stressed, are central to the quality of his pork. His pigs are raised on a diet of commercial swine feed from Bounty Agro Enterprises, supplemented with blends of rice and fish by-products.

“The secret to tender pork is in the feed,” he said.

Equally important are his post-harvest methods. Using professional-grade equipment such as a bone-cutting saw, he tailors premium cuts to customer requests. Maintaining a “farm-to-table” philosophy, Sital ensures his pigs are free from antibiotics and medicines for at least three months before slaughter, guaranteeing safe and wholesome pork for consumers.

With 75 per cent of his pork sold directly to restaurants and bars, and the re-

mainder retailed at the Mon Repos Market under approved hygienic conditions, Sital has secured a loyal customer base.

Community spirit is another hallmark of his approach. Last year, he hosted a free Mother’s Day barbecue for women in his community, an initiative he hopes to continue annually.

Still, his growth is slowed by limited access to finance.

“I want to expand, but it takes capital,” he noted. He

is hopeful that the establishment of the proposed Agriculture Development Bank will provide much-needed credit to farmers like him. Combined with technical support from the Ministry of Agriculture through the GLDA, Sital envisions expanding his farm into a modernised swine enterprise.

His partner, Anita Mohan, shares his passion for agriculture. With a $100,000 government cash grant and her savings, she established

a poultry business rearing ducks, layers, and Black Giant birds. Like Sital, she hopes for further support to expand her business.

Together, the couple represent the resilience and innovation of Guyana’s smallscale farmers. Their story reflects not only the strength of family tradition but also the importance of technical guidance and financial backing in securing the future of local agriculture.

As Guyana modernises its

agricultural sector, farmers like Sital demonstrate how determination, record-keeping, and the adaptation of new strategies can transform small enterprises into reliable suppliers of safe, high-quality food for the nation.

The enterprising couple are also rearing the dual-purpose Black Giant birds to further capitalise on income generation for the farm, since they are fed using feed scraps from the pigs.

From Unemployed to an Agro-Processor

her peppers are still blooming because they water them when they should.

Mack, a homemaker too, plans to move her farm to another location to access water for her plot better, but she needs some help in acquiring a water pump, fencing materials, and land clearing and preparation aid from the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA).

“I don’t want money from the government. I would like the help in the

form of materials to prepare the land and fence it so I can start planting, so I will be able to earn for myself and for my little family,” she said.

Mack hopes that representatives from the MoA will soon visit so she can request the necessary items to scale up her cultivation.

She and her husband, also a pepper farmer, grow hot and sweet peppers to sell.

But Mack single-handedly makes homemade sauces,

From page V

pickled peppers, and Chikiti (dried pepper), which are sun-dried at home. With the help of the Guyana Manufacturing Corporation (GMC) solar dryer in the village, the process is simplified.

She uses both glass and plastic bottles, recycling them to package her products for the local market.

Mack is often located at her home or at the Village Benab in Massara, North Rupununi, where she sells her homemade products.

By Khalil Rahman Ali (Excerpt is from Chapter Two: One more trip)

VISHNU did not waste any time as he set about planning for the Guyana trip. He broached the subject at the family’s dinner table that same evening after allowing his wife Parvati and their son Ramesh and his wife Sati to finish their meal of gilbaaka and mango curry, long grain American brown rice, daal and saada roti.

The entire meal was prepared by Parvati who had recently celebrated her eightieth birthday but continued to insist on doing most of the housework and preparing the family’s meals whilst Ramesh and Sati were at work in Manhattan.

Parvati, who enjoyed good health, had always taken great pride in ensuring that her family continued to maintain as many of their Guyanese customs including the meals she prepared, the handwashing of clothes which were hung on a clothesline at the back of the house, and using a well-worn coconut broom to sweep the carpets and another for the concreted drive and pathway from the front to the backyard. Her daily routine was almost the same as she had practised in her home village of Anna Catherina.

just after a typical Guyanese breakfast of saada roti with baigan choka or with fried eggs and hot green tea brewed in the traditional way using a saucepan.

Although Ramesh and Sati had installed

Guyana on the Rise

many mod cons in the kitchen, Parvati continued to prepare meals using a gas stove as the nearest option to her earthen handmade fireside which was fired by wood chips back in Guyana. She insisted that food cooked in the traditional Guyanese way always tasted better than with the gas stove or any other modern cooking appliance.

The only major hindrance to this was during the very cold and harsh winter months which restricted her outdoor activities. She was forced to accept the need to have a washing machine and dryer installed in the basement of the three-bedroomed home.

She saw her role as the main housekeeper looking after the family as Ramesh and Sati were too busy in their high-pressure jobs. The couple normally left for their commute to Manhattan

She was also delighted that the local Guyanese-owned groceries and the vegetable and fruit vendors in Queens stocked many of the ingredients she preferred to use in her cooking than the frozen goods in the larger supermarkets. She was also very fond of wearing the red, black and yellow Madras roomaal which emphasised her appearance as a traditional Guyanese homemaker.

Parvati would normally wait for Ramesh and Sati to leave before rousing her two grandchildren to help them prepare for school. Now that

they reached their late teens, they were away at college. Every time they rang to speak with their parents and grandparents, Parvati would enquire as to how they were preparing their meals. When at least once every two months Vishnu, Parvati, Ramesh and Sati would drive out up State to visit the scholars, Parvati would ensure that they were supplied with enough curry powder, dried salted fish, flour, channa and frozen daalpuri roti as well as cooked daal to supplement their mainly Guyanese diet. Parvati would always warn them against the more popular fast foods. After the meal, Parvati and Sati brewed some green tea and took it in individual mugs to the dining table. Vishnu stood up and turned off the TV which was prominently placed in a corner near to the large bay window of the ample sized lounge. He returned to his place at the head of the table and said, “Parv, that was a delicious meal which reminded me of our time in Anna Catherina. So many times, especially after such a great meal, I just wished that we were there. Don’t you agree?”

Parvati smiled to reveal a brace of well-kept white teeth and said quietly, “I am very happy to be here and that is why I have tried to make this our home from home. Now I do not wish to go back to Guyana. Besides, apart from only a few of our close relatives and friends, there is hardly anyone still around for us to meet. Most of the people in our age group we knew back in Guyana are either abroad or have passed away.”

Vishnu’s enthusiasm was

curbed a bit, but he pressed on, “That is so true. But you know that we must make at least one more trip there as we are all getting on in age now. Besides, I cannot wait until I am too old or too ill to go on a long-haul flight and then cope with the Guyanese heat.”

Parvati smiled as she looked into Vishnu’s large brown eyes which appeared to be filling up with tears, and whispered, “Mosquitoes.”

Ramesh laughed as he agreed with his mother, “Yes Dad, those mosquitoes would love to taste your fresh and healthy Americanised blood.”

Vishnu continued to try to convince his family, “Of course we all know about the curse of the mosquitoes, but there are many ways to deal with them. First of all, many of the homes in Guyana have some air-conditioning and no mosquitoes or other insects survive that. And we can take all the travel vaccines

and regularly use creams and ointments to keep them away when we are out and about. We just have to take precautions and all will be well. Besides, just look at how many people we know have been travelling back and forth to Guyana and say that they enjoyed their trips. Of course, there have been some who talk about how bad their experience was in Guyana. They must have been very unlucky or simply did not do the right things. You can’t go to a place like Guyana and show off your wealth or pose like some bigshot American!”

Sati sipped some of her tea and commented, “Dad, it seems that you are very eager to visit Guyana. I do agree that you and Mom should make at least one more trip to see and enjoy our beautiful country. Perhaps Ramesh and I should also join you and to support you as you travel around the country. There is a lot to see and do in Guyana.

So many beautiful houses, hundreds of miles of new and re-surfaced roads, shopping malls, hospitals, schools, hotels and holiday resorts.”

Parvati was still not convinced and asked, “Why must I bother to go there when we can see all those things on the TV? I love watching that fellow who broadcasts so much about the country on his ARD It’s our life shows. I love his down to earth style as he talks like a real Guyanese especially about day-today life.”

Ramesh nodded and looked admiringly at his parents as he said, “Mom, I understand that. But it is far better to be there in person to really experience what they show on that programme. It seems to be a very good idea to make at least one more trip. Although Sati and I have not given this much thought due to the pressures of our jobs, perhaps we could at least go with you both for the Turn to page XXIII

Secret Keepers

Knowing Ourselves

BURIED deep within all of us are stories and secrets that we would rather keep hidden away from the world. These secrets may be parts of ourselves that we believe we have outgrown. They may be memories that we think we have already left behind to fade away. They may be wounds that we think have fully closed up and healed.

They may even be nightmares we believe we have already woken up from. Secrets and stories, however, when buried, do not decompose and dissolve.

OVER the course of our lives, all human beings unfurl and bloom like the creased pages of a diary that is slowly being filled with fresh stories. We allow life to embrace us, and, in return, we are granted the space to be who we are. As we grow up, the gentle discomfort and pressures of creating your identity fade. Our skin becomes our armour, and our heart fills with the satisfaction of being able to live our lives just as we had imagined in our

They swell like seeds and burst forth with such fervour that we can do nothing but reveal them to the world and, in the process, come to face that they exist.

We are all secret-keepers in our own strange ways. Yet not all of us have fully realised just how much of our identities are really shaped by these stories and secrets that we keep. Unfortunately, those who are unaware of this fact are the very people who are often shocked beyond recovery when they find pieces of their past appearing in their present lives.

The truth is, we, as a modern generation, have begun to cultivate a novel sense of openness to the unique experiences that individuals encounter throughout their lives.

so that it is not abnormal to share every part of ourselves with the people we choose to interact with.

We have become the first generation that does not hide its secrets but celebrates them, allowing them to see the light of the world.

This change is extraordinary in that it has allowed people to bond over common issues and learn how to help one another survive their obstacles. It has removed shame from many topics that were previously stigmatised.

childhood dreams. Even those who may not yet have attained their goals are comforted by the freedom of choice—the grace of knowing that, even though they have not reached their destination, they still have the power to steer themselves towards it. The reward for those who are true to themselves is the ability to look into a mirror and respect the person they see. They shall experience no loss or failure that can take away this ability from

At the same time, it has made it quite difficult for people to find their own path out of the darkness.

To put it simply, the journey of healing is often similar to finding our way out of a dark tunnel.

The only way to do so is to keep focused on the light ahead of us. The ability to connect with others and observe their respective journeys of healing is analogous to adding lamps inside the tunnel we are trapped in. We may no longer be in darkness anymore, and we may no longer be frightened, but if we are not careful, we may forget to keep focused on our own way out.

them.

It is just as normal to find our own way out of the tunnel as it is to ask for help. It

Recently, I discovered the story of Narcissus from Greek mythology. Narcissus was a young man who was prophesied by a prophet to live a long and fruitful life as long as he did “not know himself.” He was known to be extremely handsome but prone to rejecting the affections of others, no matter how sincere they were. Then, one day, as he was travelling through a forest, he came across a body of water and caught his reflection glimmering

is okay to embark on your unique journey of healing and growth, even when no

on its surface. He leaned forward and watched as his own perfect face peered back into his eyes. Then, he remained there, falling in love with his own reflection until he passed away from thirst and starvation, unable to tear his eyes away from it. The spot where he died was marked by a bright yellow flower known as the Narcissus. We now commonly refer to the Narcissus flower as the daffodil.

The myth of Narcissus is a fascinating tale

This means that events and moments that may have previously been regarded as private experiences are now easily thrust into the hands of scrutinisers who are ready to analyse them and present their opinions on them.

One no longer needs to be a celebrity or a well-known figure in order for their life to be particularly public. Information about everything from deeply personal trauma to one’s daily outfits is handed out to strangers on the internet.

This culture of oversharing on the internet has, in turn, influenced our behaviour in the real world

Sometimes, the lamps are so bright that they obliterate the gleam of the light that directs us towards our freedom, and we may choose to take shelter in its brightness rather than take the discomfort of finding our own freedom.

In our generation, our secrets may no longer need to be concealed as secrets. We are welcomed to share our struggles and are offered help whenever we choose to do so.

Yet, even when secrets are no longer secrets, they are still very much our own personal stories and experiences, whose effect on us is not diminished by others analysing them or comparing them to their own experiences.

As we welcome this new era of openness, let us remember that it is just as normal to keep some things private as it is to share them.

one around you seems to be taking your route. Your struggles do not become smaller simply because you choose not to share them with the world.

that offers us a valuable lesson. It teaches us the dangers of self-absorption and the losses we may face by refusing to open ourselves up to the love and affection of others. We may speculate that perhaps if Narcissus had already been in love with another person, he might never have been inclined to fall so madly in love with himself. It also shows us that our destiny is rarely within ourselves. We may spend a lifetime preparing ourselves to be better people, but this preparation will not mean anything if we do not use it to change the world for the better. Beauty and good character have no power if their positive influence does not extend beyond our own boundaries.

The process of building an identity—of “knowing ourselves”—is necessary as we progress through our lives. Attempting to live without being comfortable with who we are is much like living in a space where we cannot fully walk, stretch, or look upwards at the sky. However, it is also quite easy to fall into the lonely path of knowing no one but ourselves. As we lean forward to watch our shimmering reflection grow and transform into something that we are

proud of, it is quite easy to forget to look around us at the people who are fuelling the successes and the joys we are experiencing.

The affections of others are a gentle influence. These affections can fade away and disappear long before we glance around and begin to notice that we stand completely alone. Yet, the emptiness they leave behind when they are gone is a mighty force. Those who have developed a strong sense of identity and learned to love themselves deeply will not be limited by the failures they experience or the losses they face. However, they are still quite open to the possibility of grief.

In a similar manner, it is possible for our own influences and connections to the world to fade away, just like the affections of others. When we fail to acknowledge and reciprocate the love that others proffer us, we will eventually lose it. If we stop reaching out to the world with kindness, we will ultimately lose our ability to impact it.

Each of us holds a massive power within us. Let us allow this power to extend beyond us so it can reach parts of the world that truly need it.

LEADING AN ORGANISATION TO SUCCESS

resources, it will enable the organisation to achieve success after success. In addition, a winning team may reduce operational cost and time.

OPERATION AND OUTPUT

When an organisation is done developing a plan, it is time to execute that plan. Some organisations are good at planning, but poor at executing.

Organisations that fail can often trace their failure back to poor execution. Every organisation will face many opportunities and risks, but successful organisations will often try to find a way of working around some of the challenges that affect them.

Organisations that want to be successful must always look for ways to improve. They can either use the continuous improvement approach or take the more radical approach of Business Process Re-engineering.

Some organisations have retained the traditional approach of using a manual system for record keeping and reporting, which may contribute to their failure. On the other hand, many organisations that have invested in information systems have yielded great successes.

Information systems, once properly integrated, can help the organisation manage many aspects of the business with great ease. Through data mining, information systems can also allow organisations to see new opportunities. These

From page VIII

systems may also help the organisation reduce the time spent in production.

Hardly any institution can operate without cash. Cash is important for both people and organisations. Managing the institution’s finances is paramount, since money can easily leave the organisation, but it takes a very long time to return, if ever.

When an organisation has money and wants to become successful, it must also invest some of its funds. Each investment can yield either great results or failure. The reason for the failure of some organisations is that they had too much excess funds or were overstocked in terms of inventory.

When there is too much inventory but slow sales, the organisation has assets on hand that do not yield the desired results in a timely manner.

Some organisations will choose to borrow, but when it is time for repayment, they may struggle to honour their obligation. Organisations that fail to repay the principal and interest on time may eventually be taken to court and can lose their business.

Some people and organisations may want to acquire items on credit terms. At the initial stage, they may be able to pay for their regular instalments, but as time progresses, they may not be able to continue making such payments. In such cases, the lending organisation will take action to recover its funds.

Bold, Graceful, Guyanese

talented people motivated me to push even harder.”

Making Fashion History for Guyana

True to their Guyanese roots, both Shauntaé and David persevered and made their country proud. Shauntaé made history when she became the first Guyanese to win the title of Fashion Face of the Caribbean, an achievement that still leaves her in shock weeks later.

“In that moment when they called my name and said, ‘The winner of Fashion Face of the Caribbean is Shauntaé Washington,’ I froze. Honestly, I am still in a bit of shock.”

Staying true to her roots, Shauntaé credited her family and friends for making her victory possible. She added: “I come from a really closeknit family, and the circle of people around me has done everything in their power to make sure that I got there.”

Apart from her big win, the pair also captured prizes for Best Stylist, Best High Fashion Ensemble through their collaboration with Dillon Craig, and Best Male and Female Runway Walks.

The experience gave the powerhouse duo more than just recognition. David, who placed 6th in the male category, said both he and Shauntaé are now signed to Saint International, a first for Guyana and a major boost for the local fashion industry.

“This experience opened doors. Now it’s about walking through them. I want to continue pushing, to get

signed, to work internationally, to show that Guyanese talent can stand alongside anyone else in the world.”

He further stated, “It’s not just about me. It’s about making the path easier for the next young Guyanese boy or girl who wants to model. If they see me doing it, they’ll know it’s possible.”

Beyond the Runway

As the two move forward in what promises to be vibrant, impactful careers, both hope to champion their causes with bold authenticity.

For David, that means continuing his advocacy for men’s mental health and breaking harmful stereotypes surrounding masculinity in Guyana.

“For Guyanese, regardless of race, there is a major stereotype that once you are well put together or fashion-oriented, you’re gay. People think you’re less of a man. But I have been privileged to meet renowned men who are part of the industry.”

For Shauntaé, her focus is on inspiring other young black girls to walk proudly in their truth.

“Be bold enough and brave enough to walk in strength and honour, and be true to yourself. Step beyond who you are, step in spite of who you are, and if this is your dream, fan the flame.”

As they step confidently into the future, Shauntaé Washington and David Loncke are proving that Guyanese talent can shine on any stage, at home and internationally.

STUDY SUCCESS

Welcome dear reading friend. Today we look at drawing inferences and reaching conclusions when looking at the main idea in a text. Drawing inferences is an active higher-order thinking process, a key part of forming logical conclusions. It promotes reasoned or educated deductions drawn from bits of information not explicit-

ly or directly stated. It interprets and opens depths of meaning and understanding about the main idea in a text. And it also employs “reading between the lines.” Be wise. Love you.

IMPROVING GRAMMAR

Punctuating a passage

Note some pointers: 1. When you are penning

direct speech, there are times when the reporting clause or tag comes before the speech and sometimes after.

If the reporting clause appears before the direct speech, put a comma after the tag and then begin to write what is said, using the exact words of the speaker within a pair of inverted commas. Always use a capital letter at the start of the direct speech. A full stop,

August 24, 2025

question mark, or exclamation mark can be written before the closing inverted comma.

Examples:

a) The orphan asked, “Please for some more food.” (tag before the direct speech)

b) “Please for some more food,” asked the orphan. (The reporting clause or tag is after the direct speech.)

2. Other points of punctuation to note:

i) Set off less essential information which interrupts the flow of a sentence. Less essentials can be clauses, phrases, and words which add extra information or explanation and can be removed without changing the core meaning of the sentence.

Set them off by using a pair of commas, parentheses, or dashes.

There are times, however, when a punctuation mark may not be needed if the information is closely related to the main clause.

Also, if the inserted element is essential to the sentence meaning, it should not be set off with commas.

ii) a) Generally use a colon to introduce a list, quotation, or explanation following an independent clause.

b) Use a colon to introduce an explanation that clarifies or illustrates a point.

Look at the following examples that cover “Other points of punctuation to note” above but they may not be in that listed order.

a) These people (or so I believe) have the power to declare war on their adjoining neighbour. (use of parentheses to set off less essential information)

b) My great grandmother Sybil – who was of mixed descent – became the wife of an influential European gentleman. (using dashes to emphasise the information enclosed which is essential)

c) I will give this sum of money to my sister Dorcas. (It is necessary here to say which sister because it is essential to the meaning of the sentence.)

d) I am tired: I stayed up too late three nights in a row. (use of the colon to introduce an explanation)

e) Mr. B.S. Sardisson is Genny’s uncle. (punctuating

Two men look out through the same bars: One sees the mud, and one the stars.

FREDERICK LANGBRIDGE (1849-1923) A Cluster of Quiet Thoughts (1896)

a proper name)

3. To help you identify whether an element is either essential or nonessential, try understanding the following explanations:

Try removing the element in question.

a) Does the sentence still make sense to you? If so, it is likely nonessential.

b) Does the element provide necessary information to identify a specific person, place, or thing? If so, it is likely essential.

Instructions: Read and then say which or all the following sentences have essential or nonessential information?

a) My grandmother, a talented singer, is performing at the City Centre tonight.

b) My grandmother Suzette is performing at the City Centre tonight.

c) My father, although a very successful lawyer, is very handy in roof maintenance.

Instructions: With inputs from your study partners, punctuate the following sentences containing direct speech.

Also pay attention to the other necessary punctuation marks and grammar essentials for clarity and accuracy.

1. Mr b v heathcliff I said

2. Mr lockwood your new tenant sir I do myself the honour of calling as soon as possible after my arrival

3. Thrushcross grange is my own sir he interrupted wincing I should not allow any one to inconvenience me if I could hinder it - walk in

4. But you must first wash and make yourself tidy the sun that shines so brightly overhead will else laugh at you for being dirty see I have put everything ready for you and her grandfather pointed as he spoke to a large tub full

of water which stood in the sun before the door

5. Open it said the old man and inside he put a large piece of bread and an equally large piece of cheese which made peter open his eyes for each had twice the size of the two portions which he had for his own dinner

6. Her grandfather asked do you want to go with them on to the mountains

7. No there is nothing for him to laugh at now he assured her

8. The magazine I borrowed from my fathers library was very interesting

9. My cousin has five of his paintings exhibited in the louvre museum in paris.

THE PASSAGE

Reading comprehension

Ancient civilizations harnessed the power of water in different ways, depending on the climate and their needs. The ancient Egyptians controlled water coming from the annual flooding of the Nile River to irrigate lands used for planting. Ancient Persians used a system of sloping wells and tunnels to direct water to their barley fields.

Modern irrigation systems using powerful diesel and electric engines, have enormously increased the amount of water that can be directed to crops.

1. Give the meaning of each word or phrase as used in the passage: harnessed the power of water, climate, needs, irrigate lands, powerful diesel and electric engines.

2. How did the ancient Egyptians’ way of irrigation differ from the Ancient Persian system?

3. Can you think of a setback that can plague Modern Irrigation systems? Explain your thoughts clearly.

You don’t have to lose your teeth

AN elderly individual does not lose their teeth because they have grown old. They lose them because of diseases. Oral diseases often mirror general ones. Remember, the risk of disease increases with age. So, there is no such thing as natural tooth loss in adults. No adult must lose a normal tooth if they do not want to.

Nevertheless, there continue to be widespread misconceptions about ageing in general and its impact on oral health in particular.

Interdisciplinary research in the human ageing process has demonstrated that it is the effects of disease, and not ageing itself, that are most significant for our perception of ourselves and others as either ‘young’ or ‘elderly’ in the later years of life.

We often become modest about our age as we grow older. We are so influenced by today’s youth culture that youthfulness remains an ideal for us even when we have reached a considerable age. It is not surprising that the chronological ageing process is a traumatic experience for many.

Dental diseases and alterations in saliva and mucous membranes may be early indicators of a decline in the overall health status of older individuals.

These may indicate a weakening of the tissues’ biological defence thresholds for different stresses. Few tissues in the human body must withstand what the oral tissues must, not only in terms of possible dryness, but also mechanically, thermally, microbially, chemically and

galvanically (electrically).

We should therefore not be afraid of age and the belief that our teeth will be lost because of it. Instead, we should be aware of health hazards that tend to exaggerate our actual age, making us appear and behave much older than we are.

As you get older, the frequency of your dental checkups should increase from once every six months to once every two months. On average, a seventy-year-old should have a dental examination every two months. Why is this? Well, they have an increased risk for root caries due to both gingival recession, which exposes the root, or sometimes certain medications that can produce xerostomia (dry mouth).

I would recommend an electric toothbrush for the elderly. It is very convenient, as it is rechargeable. One simply places the brush on the surface of the tooth, and with its mechanical vibration, the tooth is cleaned in that area.

Additionally, I recommend using fluoride toothpaste and rinsing thoroughly with mouthwash.

The older person needs to observe the following principles as regards oral health:

1. Do not have your teeth extracted unless the dentist deems it necessary. The presence of even a few teeth in your mouth is vital for denture satisfaction.

2. If you still have a few teeth, be sure to take extra care of them. Their preservation can mitigate much of the unfortunate loss of the remaining teeth.

3. While dentures can

never substitute natural teeth, they may provide physical, psychological and social

compensation. The state of a person’s mouth tells a lot about them.

4. Consult a dentist early if you should ever experience or observe anything

in and/or around your mouth which you consider to be unusual.