TWENTY-YEAR-OLD Abeena Gomes from the serene island of Wakenaam is on a mission to spark the light in young people in her community and of her country.

The young woman said that she is a point of light and a peaceful soul. She said growing up in Wakenaam, she was groomed with love, kindness and respect; thus, those are the traits she embodies most.

Gomes is a second-year Computer Science student at the University of Guyana with a passion for self-expression and all things ‘STEAM’, “and as such, I use my creativity to foster personal growth and positively impact the lives of those I encounter. Whether it is modelling, poetry or acting, I love delivering content that can positively impact others,” the young woman said.

Her passion for modelling extends into pageantry; this caused her to venture into a new journey which she said will be used to inspire and ignite.

“I now started the Miss World Guyana journey because the national competition encourages service over self and allows young women to highlight both their beauty and purpose. I stand by the philosophy, ‘Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime’ thus my Beauty With A Purpose Project boldly holds the title ‘Shine Your Light Initiative,’ which aims to give youths the tools they need to ignite their inner light by focusing on the pillars of personal development; Mind, Body and Spirit,” Gomes said.

This project was launched in May 2019 in her hometown Wakenaam, and the young people have shown a keen interest to take advantage of this opportunity. Gomes said that the programme will include monthly interactive and skill-building sessions.

“Knowing that my actions have a positive impact is my greatest inspiration. There is a feeling of fulfilment when you receive gratitude for shining your light. I was always giving something away and finding creative ways to express myself. In nursery school I started participating in Mashramani competitions and that trend continued until now. I find solace in being on stage and being able to share my resources with others in general,” she said.
This caused her to aspire to be the best version of herself.

“I aim to let my light shine so that my legacy outlasts my time on earth. There is a light within you that you need to let shine. Embrace all that you are and ask for divine guidance, so that you can embark on the journey to becoming your best self, fearlessly,” the aspiring queen said.