The dynamic duties of Mavis Hendricks

By Michel Outridge

MEET Mavis Hendricks. She is the wife of the Toshao, Ralph Hendricks of Capoey Mission.
This ever-friendly but serious woman is a native of Capoey Mission where she met her husband, got married and mothered children.

Presently, she takes care of six grandchildren who were orphaned when her daughter died suddenly, after the birth of her sixth child.

This mother, however, still has to contend with household chores and even provides a speedboat service to and from the village which provides a small income.

“My mother is alive, but my father passed away many years ago and we had a good upbringing and led a very simple family life – the only place that is home for me is Capoey Mission, because I spend all my life here,” she said.

Hendricks operates a 15 horsepower (HP) outboard engine on a boat bought for hire, an acquired skill she mastered by herself.

This Capoey Mission resident stated that one day, she just took the boat and learned to operate it by herself and it turned out well.

“Our village has everything and we are comfortable here, because the Essequibo Coast is nearby and we go to get our groceries and other things and bring it [sic] back to the village,” Hendricks said.

She related that Capoey Mission is nearer than any other indigenous village to the Essequibo Coast, so prices are reasonable.

For the village’s heritage celebration, Hendricks stated that they have been making preparations in advance and they are ready to host it and all are welcome.

Villagers have prepared the traditional beverages by the barrels and foods to accompany them, which will be on sale at the many booths that will be constructed.

Hendricks told the Pepperpot Magazine that Capoey Mission is large, making it ideal for hunting within the village and there are about 200 houses.

The mother of four said that all her children are grown up and lead their own lives and her role is raising her six grandchildren, two of whom are attending secondary school on the Essequibo Coast. Hendricks is one of many women who drive their own boats to ferry people in and out of Capoey Mission and are self-employed.