YOUTH Clubs from across the North Rupununi enjoyed an array of activities as part of Iwokrama’s 11th annual “wildlife festival.”Held under the theme “Respect the power of nature,” this year’s festival saw over 200 youths participating.
Activities included cotton spinning, cassava grating, volleyball, archery, moving target, slingshot shooting, and fire lighting. There was also a quiz and a public speaking competition, along with discussions on social issues that affect youths.
According to Iwokrama, Makushi Amerindian researchers Paulette Allicock and Benita Roberts spoke about domestic violence, while Gloria Durante and Trustee the Turtle met with the children between 8-10 years old to talk about staying safe and respecting your body.
The organisers of the Presidents Youth Award Republic Guyana (PYARG) spoke about leadership, Samantha James and Kevin Edwards spoke about lifelong learning, while Vidyaratha Kissoon worked with the support of the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association to advocate about the negativities of teenage pregnancy.
The activities provided merits for the children, as they received a number of prizes from the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs as well as Vanda Radzik and Deidre Jafferally, who generously provided beautiful books and art materials as prizes for the art and poetry competitions.
Farfan and Mendes and Trans-Guyana Airways also supported in providing prizes for traditional skills. And Cho Chin Hardware, Auto Supplies, the Oasis Restaurant in Annai, R and C Khan, S. Kissoon and the Guyana Tourism Authority also donated prizes for the event.
Meanwhile, Wowetta Junior Environmental Club won first prize for their banner and costume, while Yakaranita Giant Otter Conversation Club won second prize for their banner. At the same time Rupertee won second prize for costume.
“Iwokrama would like to thank Conservation International and WWF Guianas for providing support for the festival jerseys, and to acknowledge the GEF’s Small Grants Programme which made this event possible,” disclosed the release.
