On June 25, 2026, the fourth edition of Conservation Conversations was held at the Avenue Café as part of its ongoing monthly series, welcoming approximately 50 participants. Attendees included representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations, environmental clubs, private-sector partners, youth groups and conservation practitioners. The session continued to strengthen dialogue around environmental issues in Guyana and encouraged collaborative thinking on practical conservation efforts.
The session opened with remarks from Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, who enlightened the audience about the purpose of Conservation Conversations and how the EMC Foundation and Protected Areas Trust (PAT) have come together to create a space where ideas flow, where connections are made, where voices are heard and where actions begin and continue.
Ms. Oleta Williams-David, Executive Director of the Protected Areas Trust (PAT), expressed appreciation for the continued support of the Conservation Conversations series. She highlighted the importance of creating spaces where conservation practitioners, researchers, and stakeholders can connect and learn from each other’s work. Ms. Williams-David noted that partnerships and the sharing of ideas are essential to advancing conservation efforts and supporting the protection and sustainable management of Guyana’s natural resources.
Dr. Raquel Thomas, Director of Resource Management and Training at the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development, captivated the audience with an engaging presentation on Iwokrama’s history, achievements, and role as a global model for sustainable forest management, conservation, research, and community development. Reflecting on Guyana’s rich forest heritage, she highlighted the historical significance of balata before explaining how Iwokrama was established in 1989 as a unique partnership between the Government of Guyana and the Commonwealth to demonstrate that forests can be used sustainably without being destroyed.
Dr. Thomas emphasised the importance of partnerships with Indigenous communities in the North Rupununi, ensuring that they remain active participants in forest management while maintaining access to resources for traditional practices. She also highlighted Iwokrama’s wider impact on communities and conservation in Guyana, including improvements in education and ongoing scientific research that continues to reveal the extraordinary biodiversity of the Guiana Shield.
Addressing the realities of conservation, Dr. Thomas noted that effective forest management requires both collaboration and resources, famously stating that “conservation without money is just a conversation.” She underscored the importance of partnerships in tourism and the invaluable work of rangers in monitoring and protecting the forest, while acknowledging the ongoing challenges posed by illegal activities and the need for continued cooperation to safeguard Guyana’s natural heritage.
Following the presentations, Ms. Nikkita Greene, Grants Coordinator at the Protected Areas Trust, facilitated an engaging question-and-answer session, guiding dialogue between the Iwokrama team and attendees. She later delivered the closing remarks, summarising key insights from the discussion and encouraging continued collaboration and participation in future editions of the series.
The event concluded with a networking session, where attendees exchanged ideas, explored opportunities for collaboration, and strengthened cross-sector relationships.
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. Sarah Singh Delivering the Opening Remarks
Ms. Oleta Williams-David Delivering Brief Remarks
Dr. Raquel Thomas Presenting on Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation & Development
Attendees During the Discussion Segment
Attendees Engaging in Conservation Conversations
Attendees Engaging with the Exhibition Booths
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.