Youth Ambassador advocates for empowerment through entrepreneurship

AS a youth activist wearing several hats at the moment, Calvin Roberts continues on a path of advocating for the rights of his fellow Indigenous peoples while promoting their culture and activities geared toward empowering and educating them.

Becoming more and more recognised by the authorities and agencies that observe his passion and will to engage in this type of career path, Calvin has been busy participating in various impactful activities lately.

As the founder of Calvin’s Indigenous Cuisine, Han-the Wako-tha-the (Come let’s eat), Calvin has been contracted by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs (MoAA) as a supplier for all heritage events/activities. He’s especially proud of this, as the small kitchen in which he started to prepare Indigenous meals has no doubt turned into a budding successful business.

He hopes to work with the MoAA to have financial literacy and entrepreneurship courses taught to Indigenous youths. “I personally would love to see more Indigenous youths owning their own businesses,” Calvin told Pepperpot Magazine.

In addition, he is also hoping to have an Indigenous business forum for which the logistics are being worked out.

“It is something our Indigenous people and all of Guyana can look forward to soon. With all of the above being done, our main objective is to preserve our Indigenous culture and heritage,” Roberts, who is also a Youth Ambassador with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, said.

Just a few days ago, Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine presented a citation in recognition and support of Roberts. The citation recognised Roberts as ‘a selfless leader who exhibits exemplary service through positive influence, empowerment, and unique personal contribution to his community.’

Born in Moruca, on December 26, 1993, the citation noted that Roberts has been an advocate propagating awareness of Indigenous cuisine and is involved with several projects within the MoAA aimed at promoting education and youth empowerment in Amerindian villages. “The city of Georgetown recognises his hard work, patience and understanding,” it said.

Meanwhile, representing Guyana in 2018 at the 22nd National Youth Assembly in New York was one experience that made a huge impact on Roberts, who, ever since then, has been bent on creating a business to showcase his Indigenous roots.

The thought of becoming the next Indigenous entrepreneur became more and more intriguing as he visited various Indigenous celebrations in Guyana.

Roberts had said he’s always been an advocate for the Indigenous peoples and their rights to equality in Guyana. “We are educated, we are intelligent, and we are a peaceful people. We have potential and ambitions like any other ethnic group.”