IN the heart of Queenstown, Essequibo, nestled on Lot 72 Cave Street, resides a remarkable centenarian whose life echoes with faith, resilience, and unwavering community spirit.

Aunty Vera Florence Venture, born on April 25, 1924, has recently turned 100, marking a significant milestone that has been celebrated with reverence by family, friends, and the entire Queenstown community.

With a voice filled with gratitude, Aunty Venture exclaimed, “Praise the Lord,” as she reflected on a life rich with experiences, challenges, and blessings. As an adherent of the Adventist faith, she attributes her longevity to scripture reading, a practice woven into the fabric of her daily life.

Aunty Venture’s journey began in Zorg, where she found love and companionship with John Venture, a skilled carpenter from Queenstown.

Together, they embarked on a lifelong partnership, raising nine children, two of whom have sadly passed away. Through joys and sorrows, Aunty Venture weathered the storms of life, working tirelessly to support her family through various endeavours, from seamstress jobs to domestic work and rice cutting.

Even after the loss of her husband at the age of 74, Aunty Venture’s spirit remained unbroken. Her commitment to her children’s welfare led her to migrate to the United States, yet her love for her homeland drew her back to Guyana, where she continued to make a lasting impact on her community.

In Queenstown, Aunty Venture emerged as a beacon of leadership, serving as the inaugural Chairperson for the Queenstown Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and spearheading initiatives aimed at empowering women through education and skill-building. From teaching sewing to baking and crafting, her dedication to uplifting others knew no bounds.

Even in her twilight years, Aunty Venture remains an active force, beginning and ending each day with fervent prayers. Her commitment to humanitarian work, including caring for orphaned children in her community, reflects her deeply held belief in compassion and kindness.

Reflecting on her mother’s legacy, Hemsley Venture, affectionately known as Jacqueline, describes Aunty Venture as a woman of principle, whose strength of character and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on all who know her. Despite battling age-related ailments such as arthritis and memory loss, Aunty Venture’s spirit remains undimmed, finding joy in dancing and immersing herself in the words of the Bible.

As Queenstown gathers to celebrate the life and legacy of Aunty Vera Florence Venture, she offers sage advice to the younger generation: to pursue their dreams with diligence and to always extend a hand of kindness to those in need. In her centennial year, Aunty Venture stands as a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and community spirit, inspiring all who encounter her to embrace life’s journey with grace and gratitude.