THE Boeraserie/De Kinderen Community Development Council (CDC) is spearheading community-based projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents, with Chairman Colbert Leander at the forefront of these initiatives.
Leander, a 76-year-old retired ex-soldier, former sugar worker, and re-migrant, has served as a councillor for 15 years and assumed the chairmanship of the CDC two years ago.
A father of six, he has lived in Boeraserie Self Help Housing Scheme/De Kinderen for over four decades and is committed to giving back to the village he has witnessed evolve since 1977.
“I am retired, so I have the time to do things I always wanted [to do] before when I had to work. Now, I find it fulfilling to do community-based projects for the people,” Leander told the Guyana Chronicle.
Currently, the CDC is focused on completing a multi-purpose learning centre designed to accommodate youths, schoolchildren, and senior citizens. While two teachers have volunteered to provide after-school lessons once the facility is operational, the project remains unfinished due to limited funding. The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport contributed $1.5 million last year, which covered the building’s roof and frame but fell short of completing the interior and furnishing the space with tables, chairs, computers, and books.
Leander said residents have supported the project through fundraising events and direct contributions. “Once completed, the learning centre will not only provide an environment conducive for learning, but also serve as a safe space for recreational activities for locals and the elderly,” he explained.
The CDC Chairman also highlighted improvements in the village, including the installation of streetlights by the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sport. Boeraserie/De Kinderen, home to approximately 600 residents of mixed ethnicities, is largely peaceful and relies on a workforce employed across both public and private sectors.
However, Leander noted a recent disruption to village tranquility following the opening of a Chinese supermarket at the entrance of the community, with loud music disturbing senior citizens and other residents. Additionally, the community playground, which houses the learning centre, requires maintenance, including clearing overgrown weeds and cleaning a nearby trench.
Despite these challenges, Leander remains optimistic about the village’s future. “Our community is resilient, and through co-operation and support, we can continue to develop projects that enhance the lives of all residents,” he said.