The EMC Foundation, in collaboration with Mahaica River Tours, hosted a special Farewell Celebration in honour of the British High Commissioner to Guyana, Her Excellency Jane Miller. The event celebrated her outstanding service and commitment to Guyana and marked a significant personal milestone, her twenty-fifth journey along the Mahaica River.
The Farewell Celebration was held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the Mahaica River Tours venue in Little Biaboo. The day beautifully blended nature, tourism, and celebration, reflecting a shared respect for Guyana’s people, wildlife, and waterways. Over the course of her many visits, the Mahaica region has become a deeply cherished landscape for High Commissioner Miller, shaped by years of discovery and meaningful connection.
As the attendees travelled along the Mahaica River, more than five troops of red howler monkeys were observed alongside a stunning array of vibrant birdlife. In a rare and memorable sighting, an anaconda, one of the world’s largest and heaviest snake also made an appearance, serving as a powerful reminder of the region’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Following the river excursion, the farewell celebrations continued at the Mahaica River Tours venue, where High Commissioner Miller was presented with a collection of locally crafted gifts. These included a hand-painted dress showcasing iconic Mahaica species, a custom animal-themed coaster set, jaguar-beaded earrings, and autographed EMC Foundation publications highlighting the Mahaica region.
Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta, reflected on High Commissioner Miller’s tenure in Guyana, commending her deep appreciation for the country’s natural and cultural heritage, her genuine interest in community life, conservation, and education, and her hands-on approach to engaging with people and projects across the nation.
The EMC Foundation and the British High Commissioner in Guyana have enjoyed a long and productive partnership, resulting in several innovative projects. Through the UK Government’s Blue Social Challenge Fund Pilot, support was provided for The Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves coffee table book and video series. The partnership also transformed the EMC Group’s children’s book, Arya Takes a Swim, into an audio series and audiobook in both English and Arawak.
In her brief remarks, High Commissioner Miller shared how much she had enjoyed her time in Guyana and the meaningful connections she formed with its people, communities, culture, heritage, and natural environment, noting that Guyana would always remain close to her heart.
As the Farewell Celebrations concluded, the EMC Foundation extended its heartfelt best wishes to High Commissioner Miller in her future endeavours, thanking her for the support, friendship, and inspiration she has shared with the Foundation and the wider Guyanese community. Her legacy along the Mahaica River and across Guyana will continue to inspire all to Experience, Connect, and Act for the environment.
Attendees Arriving at Little Biaboo for the Farewell Celebrations
Attendees Departing for the Tour of the Mahaica River
Attendees During the Mahaica River Tour
Biodiversity Observed During the Mahaica River Tour. Photo Credits: Jane Miller
Attendees During the Formal Program of the Farewell Celebrations
High Commissioner Miller Receiving Tokens of Appreciation from the EMC Foundation and Other Attendees
British High Commissioner, HE Jane Miller sharing remarks
Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta Providing Brief Remarks
EMC Foundation Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh leading the activity
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.