In light of Guyana’s ongoing border controversy with neighbouring Venezuela over the Essequibo region—often referred to as Cinderella County—I’ve chosen to dedicate this week’s column to exploring how every Guyanese can play a role in defending what is rightfully ours.
When we hear the word “defend,” many of us immediately think of the military. Yes, our National Defence Force could benefit from more recruits, but defending our nation goes far beyond a battlefield or training camp.

We are living in a digital age where technology evolves rapidly, and information travels at lightning speed. Social media, in particular, has become a powerful tool—connecting people, spreading information, and giving voice to the voiceless. As a developing nation, Guyana has already utilised these platforms to showcase our culture, promote tourism, and celebrate our discovery of “black gold” in the Western Hemisphere. We should now think beyond tourism promotions and examine how social media can be utilised as a tool to educate the world about the truth regarding the Essequibo region.
We should use social media to inform, engage, and advocate. Whether through TikTok videos, Facebook posts, or Instagram hashtags, Guyanese at home and abroad have the power to raise awareness about the controversy and affirm our sovereignty in Essequibo. Online Guyanese creators can produce informative videos on the history of the Essequibo region or how Guyanese culture is deeply ingrained in Essequibo and that Essequibians are Guyanese—through birth, culture, and geography. Creators can also create social media infographics with clear information or reels featuring interviews with Essequibians and how the controversy affects them. The possibilities are endless.
Guyanese activists or legal experts can also enlighten the Guyanese public and the world about the legal proceedings relating to Essequibo. The Guyanese public, regardless of their socio-economic background or educational level, should be able to understand the proceedings of the International Court of Justice. Therefore, “Layman’s Terms” social media content on the legal system can empower our people, allowing them to confidently express their understanding of the controversy in their own words.
Unfortunately, a significant amount of misinformation has been circulating—much of it not generated by Guyanese creators but rather from external sources. For example, the inaccurate representation of Guyana on the map. Some “news sources”, external information sites and even businesses have shared and continue to share images of Guyana without the Essequibo on its map. That is not acceptable. This makes it even more important for us to ensure that our advocacy is rooted in facts, data, and credible evidence. Government ministries, as well as tourism platforms and accredited journalists, all share a responsibility to report accurate, fact-based information at all times. The spread of false narratives can sow division and fuel unnecessary fear among citizens—especially at a time when Guyana must stand united. In such critical moments, there is simply no room for misinformation in our advocacy.
Many Guyanese have already taken to social media to express their views on the border dispute. In fact, without these platforms, the now-familiar slogan #EssequiboBelongsToGuyana might not have gained the widespread popularity it enjoys today. However, while a hashtag or a T-shirt can help spark awareness, they are not enough to drive meaningful change on their own. That’s why I encourage all content creators, writers, bloggers, videographers, and creatives to go a step further. Use your platforms to educate, inform, and inspire through thoughtful, fact-based content. Your voices matter—and when used wisely, they can be powerful tools in our collective advocacy.
Although Guyana is a small country, our voices can spread across continents on social media when we unite. At the same time, let’s remember that patriotism does not require hostility or disrespect. We can stand firm in our beliefs while maintaining a respectful and measured tone. As we work together to raise awareness about this land that holds our people, culture, and heritage, may our advocacy always be grounded in truth, unity, and pride—for Essequibo is, and always will be, ours.