AS part of their ongoing commitment to supporting orphanages across the country, the Sheriff Group of Companies, through its subsidiary Sheriff Construction, has once again joined forces with the First Lady of Guyana, Mrs. Arya Ali, in her “Adopt an Orphanage” initiative.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Ameir Ahmad, the Managing Director of the Sheriff Group of Companies, expressed his deep personal commitment to the cause. Ahmad shared that his motivation stems from a profound empathy for underprivileged children, particularly those abandoned by the very people meant to care for them.

“I am extremely busy due to my work and the responsibility of managing the Sheriff brand, and sometimes I wish that there were more hours in the day to get more done. However, through our First Lady’s ‘Adopt an Orphanage’ initiative, it gives me the opportunity to contribute to the lives of these children, who deserve love and attention but also a decent life,” Ahmad stated. He further reflected on the fulfillment derived from knowing that his contributions could potentially shape the futures of these children, envisioning some becoming future leaders and professionals.

Ahmad lauded Mrs. Ali for her unwavering advocacy for the less fortunate and vulnerable in Guyana. He expressed admiration for both the First Lady and President Ali’s dedication to improving living conditions for all citizens, regardless of their circumstances. He emphasised that despite the rapid advancements in the country, the commitment of the First Lady and the President to the well-being of all citizens remains evident.

“While we at Sheriff Group are grateful that we can contribute to causes such as these, we are also appreciative that we have a First Lady and a President who have the people’s best interests at heart. Regardless of the politics, we cannot dispute their dedication to this country, and we must acknowledge them for that,” Ahmad added. He encouraged other private sector members to support such initiatives, highlighting the positive impact they have on society.

Earlier this year, the Sheriff Group of Companies pledged to provide free medical care for less fortunate children through the First Lady’s Adopt-an-Orphanage initiative. Ahmad explained that giving back is intrinsic to his values, and collaborating with the First Lady was an obvious decision for him and his family. He emphasised the importance of supporting children who are innocent victims of circumstance, drawing parallels to the fortunate upbringing of his own daughters and expressing hope that his actions would inspire them to make a difference.

The First Lady, in a Facebook post, announced that nine orphanages had been “adopted” for the third consecutive year under the initiative. The sponsorship covers a range of expenses, including utilities, repairs, maintenance, and transportation. The benefiting homes include Prabhu Sharan Orphanage, Bless the Children’s Home, Red Cross Convalescent Home, St. John’s Bosco Orphanage, Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage, Shaheed’s Girls Orphanage, Hope Children’s Home, Joshua Children’s Centre, and Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre.

Mrs. Ali expressed gratitude to the sponsors, including the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, Demerara Bank Limited, J’s Supermarket, Comfort Sleep, Sheriff Construction, Lucky Star, Premier Construction, and IB Construction, for their generous support. She emphasised that the initiative goes beyond financial assistance, symbolising a commitment to standing by a child, supporting his/her dreams, and building a bridge of hope and possibility.