– On a drive to break the cycle of poverty and promote economic self-sufficiency 

HUMANITARIAN Mission Guyana Inc. has observed that many young individuals in Berbice, Region Six, are unable to complete their education due to financial hardships, family obligations, and other social issues, and, as such, the organisation is on a task to provide life skills, education and empowering training to help these individuals overcome such challenges.

Suresh Sugrim, Secretary/CEO/Founder, began work in Guyana in 2005, initially providing handouts. Soon after, though, it was realised that this approach was not enough to address poverty effectively.
So in 2013, the organisation transitioned to a more sustainable model by leasing land from the government and building a training centre at 14-26 Area Q, Ankerville, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice.

The mission’s main objectives are to equip individuals in need with employable and entrepreneurial skills, break the cycle of poverty, promote economic self-sufficiency, and inspire hope within communities.

In an interview with Pepperpot Magazine, Sugrim said some of the major projects that will be completed are upgrading a commercial kitchen, installing a smart classroom with the support of donors, and addressing other needs in Berbice.

“Humanitarian Mission Guyana Inc. invites the community to join their programmes, especially highlighting their provision of free on-site babysitting for mothers, ensuring that childcare responsibilities do not hinder their educational and personal advancement. The organisation seeks to create lasting change and improve the quality of life for individuals in the community,” Sugrim shared.

“Teaching life skills to younger people equips them with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of life, contributing to their overall well-being, success, and ability to contribute positively to society,” he added.

Registered in both the United States under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS (EID#81-3447372) and in Guyana under the Companies Act of Guyana BCO No: BCO3, the organisation initially focused on presenting gifts to needy individuals and families in Guyana. However, after observing little long-term change in the recipients’ lives, the mission shifted its focus to a more sustainable approach, emphasising the three ‘Es’: Educate, Empower, and Elevate the underprivileged and others to improve their lives in various spheres.

“Handouts are not the answer to bringing about positive changes. It is the temporary fixture for the moment,” Sugrim noted, adding, “Our mission is to empower the less fortunate and others…to break the cycle of poverty through life skills, education, and capacity building.”
The organisation focuses on several key areas: education, health, disability, social issues, LGBTQ+ advocacy, community development, single parenthood programmes and training.

“Through the generosity of our donors, we have built a facility that serves as an educational oasis. We offer training to individuals from various backgrounds, including the employed, unemployed, educated, uneducated, and those from dysfunctional homes or poor economic conditions.”

Training at the mission includes programmes in: cosmetology (nails, hair, makeup), cake decoration cooking, sewing (basic and advanced), information technology, electrical installation (level 1), electrical repairs, barbering, balloon décor, mental health and gender-based violence.

Since 2015, thousands of individuals have graduated from the programmes, with 95% being females. Graduates are said to have experienced improvements in self-esteem, economic status, and overall life transformation.