VIDESH DEBIDEEN is a dedicated committee member and public servant from Fort Island, Essequibo River, Region Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara), widely recognised for his contributions to the island’s infrastructure, tourism, operations at the Fort Island Stelling, and social welfare.
The 26-year-old has been serving as Clerk-in-Charge of the Fort Island Stelling, attached to the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD), for the past four years.
The rehabilitated Fort Island Stelling in Guyana was officially commissioned in May 2022 following G$82 million in rehabilitation works. Executed by the Ministry of Public Works, the project enhances safety for residents and boosts tourism and economic activity for the island, with regular, improved transport links, including stops from boats travelling to Bartica.
The Fort Island Stelling replaced a dilapidated structure and connects islanders to the mainland, fostering tourism and trade. The project included significant rehabilitation to improve the timber structure and ensure its longevity. The stelling is crucial for the estimated 95-plus residents of Fort Island and the surrounding catchment areas. The improved stelling supports enhanced boat services to the island, particularly on weekends.
Following the commissioning, it was announced that the elderly and vulnerable on the island would receive a golf cart to assist with transportation, as noted in reports from the Ministry of Public Works. The project was delivered through the Transport and Harbours Department to prevent the island from being cut off and to boost economic development.
“As a ‘son of the soil,’ I have spent my life on Fort Island, witnessing and driving gradual development with this administration, which is backing locals for even more development on the island,” he said.
For this year’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Independence, Fort Island has been selected for the national flag-raising ceremony, and infrastructural and other beautification works are currently underway to transform the island in time for that event.
Residents of Fort Island welcome this transformation. Over time, the island has benefitted from a new stelling, solar-powered lights, new walkways, among other developments that are improving the lives of its people.
Debideen is a prominent figure in the local administrative landscape and a vocal advocate for the island’s unique historical significance, overseeing projects while also promoting tourism on the island.
Career and Public Service
This young man is a key member of Guyana’s Transport and Harbours Department, serving as the Clerk-in-Charge of the Fort Island Ferry Stelling.
“My work is vital to the island’s connectivity, as the stelling serves as the primary gateway for both residents and the growing number of tourists visiting historic sites like Fort Zealandia and the Court of Policy,” he said.
In addition to his professional duties, he is deeply involved in community health and education.
He works closely with the Fort Island Health Committee, assisting in organising initiatives such as “Health Days” to provide medical services and screenings to residents. Debideen is also regarded as a local historian. He often leads educational segments, sharing the island’s rich 200-year history with visitors and youth.
Community Impact and Personal Philosophy
Debideen is well known for his philanthropic efforts alongside his mother, Pretty Debideen, a local Community Health Worker (CHW).
Together, they host significant annual events, including the Fort Island Christmas Tree Light-Up and Children’s Party, which provides gifts and festivities for over 150 children from Fort Island and surrounding riverine communities such as Lanaballi, Aliki, Morashee, and Bonasika.
Debideen is frequently cited in local media as a symbol of Guyanese hospitality.
He maintains a strong vision for the island’s future, advocating for continued improvements in drainage, irrigation, solar lighting, and education to ensure that Fort Island remains a vibrant and sustainable community.
Guyana’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Independence
For Guyana’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Independence Anniversary in May 2026, Fort Island, a historic site in the Essequibo River, is highlighted as a key location for celebrations.
Preparations include a flag-raising ceremony as part of a national “Homecoming” theme featuring heritage tours and cultural events.
Fort Island, known for Fort Zealandia, represents Guyana’s Dutch colonial past and serves as a significant site for the 2026 celebrations.
The 60th Anniversary (“Diamond Jubilee”) is centred around “Homecoming,” featuring heritage tours, culinary showcases, and family-friendly activities.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, led by Minister Charles Ramson Jr., has conducted site visits to Fort Island in preparation for the official flag-raising ceremony.
In addition to independence celebrations, the location previously hosted its first-ever Mashramani (Republic Day) parade for children from nearby riverine communities in 2019, highlighting its role in local culture.
The 2026 celebrations officially launched in early April with a grand cultural showcase, leading up to the main Independence Day activities on May 26, 2026.
The 60th anniversary aims to highlight Guyana’s development over the years, with a nationwide celebration.
