There’s always something so very magical about entering a new year, and as we approach January 1, 2022, the feeling is still the same. However, in a coronavirus-filled world, many of us can’t help but acknowledge the fact that as we cross into tomorrow, many of our loved ones and the people we knew would not be joining us.|

The last two years have undoubtedly been difficult, but as Guyanese, we have always found a way to laugh ourselves through the difficult times, while hoping for better days. So far, we have adjusted and adapted to a new way of life, which, unfortunately, will follow us into the new year.

Notwithstanding this, we have fastened our seatbelts and we are just about ready for the ride, but before we board that train, let us stay awhile more in 2021 to reminisce on the few good things that the year has brought.

For me, I’d like to look back at our journey here at the Buzz. I first joined the Buzz team in the height of the pandemic in 2020. Like many of you, I too had to quickly adjust, especially as a frontline worker. Fortunately, I was afforded the opportunity to work from home. This meant that most of my interviews were done via WhatsApp or over the telephone since it was critical for us to remain indoors and practice social distancing as much as possible; at that time, we were still learning about the virus which we all thought could never reach the shores of Guyana; until it came knocking at our doors.

At the time I tried my best to keep the entertainment stories flowing, because it felt as though I was adding a little light to the nightmare that begun. We brought you all the motivating stories, and we were sure to include bits and pieces that would make you giggle. We felt that it was necessary as so many of us tried desperately to nurture hopes of a brighter tomorrow.

Looking back, I’ve realised that while it was not in the customary way, we did share some notable moments together. We featured the exciting festivities of Mashramani, Guyana’s 54th and 55th Independence, Diwali, Emancipation and shared so many stories positive stories with you.

And lately, just as the world began to return to some level of normalcy, owing to us being vaccinated, I had the pleasure of taking you, fans of the Buzz on some of my most exciting journeys across the country.

We journeyed across the stained brown and redish soils of Potaro-Siparuni (Region Eight); we trekked through the lush trees and forested lands in the Mazaruni, seeking out its hidden gem, the breathtaking Marshall Falls.

We even visited the quiet community of Kamarang, tucked away in Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven). We also explored the historic treasures and all the intriguing artifacts left behind by our ancestors on the Essequibo River.

We shared our love for music, poetry, theatre, travelling and adventures. Despite the challenges 2021 was a wonderful journey. Going forward, I would like to urge you, our dear valued readers to not allow the this new normal to constrict or keep you from being great. Of course, you must take the requisite precautions as we manoeuvre this frightening pandemic, but even then, dare to be great; take risks, try new things, embrace the pursuit of excellence and say no to mediocrity.

Although a tad-bit sceptical, I am excited for what 2022 has in store for both my families; the one along the East Coast of Demerara, and the one that allows me to communicate with you.

On behalf of the Buzz family, we extend heartiest New Year wishes; we are all facing 2022 together; masked-up, and armed with our sanitisers. Happy New Year, Guyana.