On May 29, 2026 another Conservation Conversations was held at Avenue Café. This edition was held as a panel discussion in observance of World Otter Day and focused on the conservation of the Giant River Otter in Guyana, with discussions centred on scientific research, habitat protection, public awareness, and collaborative conservation strategies. There was attendance by approximately 50 participants from a wide range of stakeholders, including Government agencies, civil society organisations, environmental clubs, private sector partners, youth groups, researchers, and conservation practitioners. The initiative continues to strengthen dialogue on environmental issues in Guyana and promote collaborative approaches to practical conservation action.
The session opened with remarks from Ms. Oleta Williams, Executive Director of the Protected Areas Trust (PAT), who underscored the collaborative spirit between the EMC Foundation and PAT. She explained that the initiative reflects a shared commitment to advancing conservation in Guyana through partnership and engagement. Ms. Williams highlighted that the EMC Foundation, established by Mr. Shyam Nokta, focuses on environmental awareness and education through publications, learning experiences, and collaborative initiatives that deepen understanding of Guyana’s ecosystems. She further noted that the PAT, established by the Government of Guyana, plays a critical role in providing sustainable financing for the long-term management of the country’s protected areas while strengthening partnerships that support biodiversity conservation.
Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation and Chairman of the Protected Areas Trust, welcomed participants and recognised distinguished attendees including Mr. Joseph Fisher, the British High Commissioner to Guyana; Mr. Kemraj Parsram, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); representatives from Exxon Mobil, Karanambu Trust, and Iwokrama; and community members from Kanashen and Mahaica. He noted that Conservation Conversations was established to bring together environmental stakeholders from across Guyana to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and strengthen partnerships for conservation. He emphasised that species such as the Giant River Otter highlight the importance of coordinated conservation efforts, particularly because of their dependence on healthy, interconnected freshwater ecosystems.
The panel featured Ms. Melanie McTurk, Managing Director of Karanambu Lodge; Dr. Deirdre Jafferally, Community-Based Natural Resource Management Specialist; Ms. Alona Sankar, Commissioner of the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC); and Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation. The discussion was moderated by Ms. Williams, who guided the conversation on the ecological importance of Giant River Otters, the pressures affecting their populations, and opportunities for strengthening conservation partnerships across Guyana.
Throughout the discussion, panellists highlighted the important role Giant River Otters play in freshwater ecosystems and the need to protect the rivers, wetlands, and habitats they depend on. They also discussed how ongoing research and monitoring are improving understanding of the species and its conservation needs in Guyana, while emphasising the importance of collaboration, education, and public awareness in supporting conservation efforts.
Ms. McTurk highlighted the significance of long-term conservation efforts and research in protecting the Giant River Otter and its habitat. Dr. Jafferally emphasised the importance of integrating community engagement and local knowledge into conservation initiatives to support long-term environmental stewardship. Ms. Sankar emphasised the importance of strengthening wildlife conservation policies, legal protections, monitoring, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure the long-term survival of Guyana’s giant otter populations and other wildlife resources. Ms. Singh highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing Giant River Otter Conservation Programme in Mahaica and the importance of combining research and education initiatives to improve understanding and protection of the species.
The panel discussion reinforced the collective commitment among conservation partners and stakeholders to safeguarding Guyana’s Giant River Otters and the freshwater ecosystems they depend on. The exchange of ideas and knowledge throughout the evening highlighted the importance of continued collaboration, research, and public engagement in ensuring the long-term conservation of one of Guyana’s most iconic species.
Following the discussion, a brief question-and-answer session allowed for further interaction between panellists and participants, encouraging deeper engagement on key issues raised during the panel. Closing remarks summarised the main insights from the session and encouraged continued participation in future editions of the series.
The event concluded with a networking session, where attendees exchanged ideas, explored opportunities for collaboration, and strengthened relationships across sectors and organisations.
Conservation Conversations continues to demonstrate the importance of creating inclusive spaces where diverse voices can come together in support of a shared commitment to protecting Guyana’s environment. Led by the EMC Foundation in partnership with the Protected Areas Trust, the initiative is helping to foster the dialogue and partnerships needed to support long-term conservation impact.
Ms. OIeta Williams Delivering the Welcome Remarks
Mr. Shyam Nokta Delivering Opening Remarks
Panellists (From Left: Ms. Melanie McTurk, Ms. Alona Sankar, Ms. Sarah Singh, and Dr. Deirdre Jafferally) and Moderator, Ms. OIeta Williams During the Panel Discussion
Attendees Engaging in Conservation Conversations
The EMC Foundation was established by Mr. Shyam Nokta, winner of the 2022 Anthony N Sabga Award for Entrepreneurship. The Foundation works to support environmental awareness and education in Guyana by promoting activities which encourage a greater understanding of the environment, creating a network to connect like-minded persons, and providing opportunities to experience Guyana’s rich natural environment.