IT cannot be denied that the reputable Mahaica community lost a daughter, mother, teacher and most of all, a significant community leader with the passing of the truly great comrade Anoopwattie Veeren. Ms. Vereen was born on October 5, 1945.

During her childhood, she was a student who had a positive attitude towards learning and a sincere interest in education. She was destined to become an educator of genuine quality. This wonderful teacher was in the school system for more than 50 years. As a teacher, she had a significant impact on countless lives. At her funeral the quiet and solemn remark: “Ms. Veeren is the person who made me what I am” was often heard from both eminent and ordinary mourners. She was responsible for laying the foundation for hundreds of people who received tertiary and university education. There could not be a more splendid legacy.

Miss Veeren received the Teacher of the Year Award for Region 4 from the Ministry of Education in 1989.

She also received the Bahai Woman of Distinction Award for laudable and selfless service to society, in 1999.

Anoopwattie Veeren may not have been a declared politician, but she was certainly an undeclared politician. I could vividly recall serving as Regional Democratic Councillor in Region 4 with her. While I was Red Hot and ready for all the challenges to get things right in the region,Councillor Veeren, like a genuine sister, would look at me sending the message to “cool out.”

At our caucus meetings she was full of confidence that the PPP/C Councillors would win out eventually.

She was always that quiet and unassuming person who had an eye for details and believed in fair play. One who never exaggerated a situation. However, she was always with the collective. Because of her quality work in the Region 4 Regional Democratic Council, she was elected as a member to the Central Committee of the People’s Progressive Party. I recall her telling me that the PPP leadership is very thorough and indeed loves Guyana.

Because of her exceptional qualities, Ms. Veeren was elected/appointed and served with distinction, as member, of the following:
* The Central Board of Health
* Regional Democratic Council of Region 4
* Chairman of the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute
* The University of Guyana Council
* Board Member of the Hindu College
* Board Member of President’s College
* Member of the National Commission on the Rights of the Child

This reputable woman of integrity was appointed as Justice of Peace/Commissioner of Oaths and her service to her community in this capacity was greatly appreciated.

Comrade Veeren went home to the Lord while serving as:
* Chairman of the Unity Vereeniging NDC
* Teaching Service Commissioner
* Chairman of the Upper East Coast Local Board of Guardians
* Chairman of the Mahaica WPO
* Central Committee Member of the WPO
* Member of the Project Steering Committee of the Basic Needs Trust Fund
* Education Secretary of the PPP Upper East Demerara region
Ms. Veeren lived a highly respectable life that should be an inspiration to us all. She was a loving woman who leaves her loving children, grandchildren and people a rich legacy. A legacy of what an eminent mother must be. Her life will be celebrated for all that is bright and beautiful. To our Comrade Veeren, let us say that you will be forever fondly remembered for the great and small ways in which you enriched our lives. As your immediate family says, you are with the angels now.
May your soul rest in Peace!
NEIL KUMAR