THE annual Amerindian Heritage Dinner and prize giving ceremony saw a huge turnout at Duke Lodge on Friday night.
Among the gathering were Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud, Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee, Minister within the Ministry of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, and representatives of Amerindian organizations.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai, in her remarks, reflected on the diverse Amerindian culture and that of Guyana that every Guyanese can enjoy. She expressed gratitude to patrons who have over the years been supportive of not only the annual dinner, but all the activities that mark Amerindian Heritage Month.
She added that the Amerindian culture is only one of the rich and diverse cultures that intertwine to make up the Guyanese cultural fabric, and it is highly appreciated among the Amerindian population.

A wide variety of indigenous foods and beverages was served buffet style, including indigenous cook-up rice, barbequed wild meats, cassava bread and pepperpot, fly and paiwari.
At the prize giving ceremony, the Amerindian Heritage Pageant delegates received prizes according to their performances at the recently held Amerindian Heritage Pageant. 
Winner, Naiomi Samuels, of Region 3, took home the grand prize of a trip to Trinidad and Tobago, with all expenses paid, a designer outfit, compliments of Sonia Noel, and a trip to Kaieteur, compliments of Roraima Airways.
First runner-up, Treasure James, of Region 1, received a laptop among other prizes, while the other contestants received cash prizes and beauty hampers.
The ministry used the occasion also to recognise the top performers of the Hinterland Scholarship Programme at CSEC and the National Grade Six Assessment.
Darren Smith of Anna Regina Secondary received the prize for the top CSEC performer, with passes in 11 subjects, while Navita Obinbernauth and Romario Hastings, of Region 7, the second and third prizes.
Kieve Tacoordeen of St. Ignatius was the top NGSA performer, with 517 marks.
The winners of the art competition in the nine and 18 year categories were also presented with cash prizes, and the ministry presented tokens of appreciation to persons who have, over time, supported its activities and programmes.
Proceeds from the dinner will go towards expenses for children from the hinterland regions who may require medical attention in Georgetown. (GINA)