AMEENA GAFOOR, a distinguished philanthropist, who has left an indelible mark on the arts and education in Guyana, passed away on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, dedication, and cultural enrichment.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in a heartfelt tribute, hailed Gafoor as “a truly extraordinary woman whose contributions to our nation, and especially to the literary arts were exceptional.”
The Head of State said that Mrs. Gafoor’s kindness and generosity were unparalleled, touching the lives of many through her consistent support for philanthropic endeavours, particularly in the promotion of the literary arts.
“Her efforts nurtured and uplifted the talents of writers, poets, and artists across Guyana, making a lasting impact on our nation. Ameena will be remembered not only for her profound influence in the literary world but also for her humility and warm-spiritedness.” President Ali said.
Born in 1941, Gafoor emerged from humble beginnings to become a respected educator and cultural advocate.

She dedicated much of her life to advancing the arts within her community and beyond. As Secretary of the Arts Forum Inc. and Executive Editor of the Caribbean Review of Books, she provided a platform for underrepresented artists and writers.
Her work extended to the establishment of the Ameena Gafoor Institute, which aims to further cultural education and advocacy.

Gafoor’s contributions did not go unnoticed. She received several accolades, including the National Medal of Service, in recognition of her dedication to literature and the arts in Guyana. As such, her legacy continues to inspire future generations in the Caribbean and beyond.
In her earlier years, Gafoor held teaching positions at Central High School and Tutorial High School, where she instructed students in literature, French, and Latin.
Her passion for education was evident throughout her career as she sought to uplift others through knowledge and creativity.

Mrs. Gafoor also provided a platform to numerous Guyanese writers and scholars, including Michael Gilkes, Frank Birbalsingh, Sister Mary Noel Menezes, Stephanie Correia, Brinsley Samaroo, Mark Tumbridge, Ryhaan Shah, Charlene Wilkinson, and many others.
The Arts Journal, which she founded and edited, showcased the work of artists like renowned Guyanese artist Philip Moore, Darshanie Kistama, Bernadette Persaud, Betsy Karim, and Philbert Gajadhar.
Her love for the literary arts manifested in a prolific career, including the publication of the first major study of Roy Heath’s fiction and her fictional memoir, “Lantern in the Wind” (2020). Renowned Guyanese academic, Professor David Dabydeen, had lauded the memoir as “a rare insight into Muslim life in Guyana.”

Beyond her contributions to the literary world, Gafoor was deeply involved in charitable activities.
Alongside her husband, Sattaur Gafoor, she co-founded the Gafoor Foundation, which has funded numerous medical, educational, and sports projects.
In November 2022, the foundation opened the Ameena Gafoor Medical and Dialysis Centre at Gafoors’ Parika branch, making dialysis treatment more affordable for Guyanese.
Gafoor’s influence extended globally with the establishment of the Ameena Gafoor Institute for the Study of Indentureship and its Legacies at Cambridge University, further cementing her role as a key figure in cultural and intellectual development.
President Ali, in his tribute, expressed deep condolences on behalf of the government and people of Guyana to Gafoor’s family and all who mourn her loss.

“In her passing, Guyana has lost a true literary luminary and one of its kindest souls. On behalf of the government and people of Guyana, I extend our deepest condolences to her husband, family, and all who mourn her loss.
“May her example continue to inspire kindness, generosity, and a love for the arts in all of us. May Allah’s divine blessings and mercy be with her!” he said.