Josiah Williams

On January 29, 2025, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to North Georgetown Secondary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by approximately 90 students from Forms 1-3 and 3 teachers, provided the EMC Foundation team with an opportunity to introduce itself, discuss exciting plans for upcoming activities, and outline the work plan for the first term.

The session began with a lively icebreaker, “Eco-Warriors: Last Eco- Agent Standing,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Josiah Williams, Communications Officer, Siddi Nandkishore, Projects Assistant, and Aletha Jewanram, Administrative Officer. This interactive icebreaker fostered a fun and welcoming atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while highlighting simple actions that can be taken to conserve and protect the environment.

Abigail provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, projects, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about the environment and conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about the EMC Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities.

The club members also actively participated in the “Eco-Quiz for Kids” activity, which gauged their knowledge of the environment, Guyana’s rich biodiversity, conservation practices and key environmental topics. This question-and-answer activity was highly successful and saw full participation from the students in attendance, which demonstrated their passion for the environment and that they connected and understood the materials presented by the EMC Foundation team.

The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and learning about the environment through nature walks, tree planting exercises, tours, scavenger hunts, and learning to operate drones and camera traps. The students were also shown camera trap videos of local wildlife collected by the EMC Group.

Students also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and conserving the environment. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the work plans.

The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Session

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Warriors: Last Eco- Agent Standing” Activity

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Quiz for Kids” Activity

Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

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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.

On January 22, 2025, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Lusignan Primary School on the East Coast of Demerara to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by approximately 80 students from Grade 5, along with an Environmental Club Coordinator and 2 teachers, provided the EMC Foundation team with an opportunity to introduce itself, discuss exciting plans for upcoming activities, and outline the work plan for the first term.

The session began with a lively icebreaker “Planet-Earth Says” activity, facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Josiah Williams, Communications Officer, and Aletha Jewanram, Administrative Officer. This interactive icebreaker fostered a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while learning about simple actions that can be taken to conserve and protect the environment.

Abigail provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, projects, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about the environment and conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about the EMC Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone usage and outreach activities.

The club members also actively participated in the “Eco-Quiz for Kids” activity, which gauged their knowledge of the environment, Guyana’s rich biodiversity, conservation practices and key environmental topics. This question-and-answer activity was highly successful and saw full participation from the students in attendance, which demonstrated their passion for the environment and their connection and understanding of the information presented by the EMC Foundation team.

The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours and scavenger hunts. The students were also shown videos developed by the EMC Group, such as camera trap videos and a video on turtle telemetry.

Students also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and conserving the environment. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the curriculum.

The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Session

Club Members Engaging in the “Planet-Earth Says” Activity

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Quiz for Kids” Activity

Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team

Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation publications

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

Club Members interacting with the EMC Foundation Selfie Frame

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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.

On January 15, 2025, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Annandale Secondary School on the East Coast of Demerara to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by approximately 26 students from Forms 1 to 5, along with an Environmental Club Coordinator and a teacher, provided the EMC Foundation team with an opportunity to introduce itself, discuss exciting plans for upcoming activities, and outline the work plan for the first term.

The session began with a lively icebreaker “Eco-Bingo” activity, facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, and Josiah Williams, Communications Officer. This interactive icebreaker fostered a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while learning about the environment and encouraging active participation.

Abigail provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, projects, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about the environment and conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about the EMC Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities.

The club members also actively participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity, which taught them problem-solving skills as well as common phrases associated with Guyana’s environment. Additionally, the students participated in a question-and-answer quiz based on the EMC Foundation’s Secondary Environmental Quiz Handbook, where they learned about Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy and phrases associated with combating climate change.  

The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours and scavenger hunts. The students were also shown videos developed by the EMC Group, such as camera trap videos and a video on turtle telemetry.

Students also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and conserving the environment. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the curriculum. The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Session

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Bingo” and “Eco-Wordsearch” Activities

Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team

Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation publications

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

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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.

On January 9, 2025 the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Nismes Secondary School on the West Bank of Demerara, Region 3, to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, which was attended by approximately 17 students from Grade 7, along with an Environmental Club Coordinator, provided the opportunity for the EMC Foundation team to introduce the EMC Foundation, discuss exciting plans for upcoming activities, and outline the work plan for the first term.

The session began with a lively icebreaker activity, our “Eco-Bingo” activity, facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, Josiah Williams, Communications Officer, and Aletha Jewanram, Administrative Assistant. This interactive icebreaker fostered a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while learning about animals and the environment and encouraging active participation.

Abigail provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, projects, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about the environment and conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about the EMC Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities.

The club members also actively participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity, which taught them problem-solving skills as well as common phrases associated with Guyana’s environment. Additionally, the students participated in the EMC Foundation’s “Eco-Charades” activity, where they learned about simple actions that can be taken to conserve the environment in a fun and interactive way.

The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and exploring and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours and scavenger hunts. Some members also asked questions about the technology used to maintain a healthy environment, such as drones, camera traps, GPS devices, and cameras, as well as learning to use these tools.

Students also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and participating in future activities. They also requested to view videos developed by the EMC Group, such as camera trap videos and a video on turtle telemetry. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the curriculum.

The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Session

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Bingo” and “Eco-Wordsearch” Activities

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Charades” Activity

Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team

Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation publications

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

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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.

On January 7, 2025, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to the Good Hope Secondary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, which was attended by approximately 35 students from Forms 1 to 5, along with an Environmental Club Coordinator and two teachers, provided the opportunity for the EMC Foundation team to introduce the EMC Foundation, discuss exciting plans for upcoming activities, and outline the work plan for the first term.

The session began with a lively icebreaker activity, our “Eco-Bingo” activity, facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Josiah Williams, Communications Officer, and Aletha Jewanram, Administrative Assistant. This interactive icebreaker fostered a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while learning about animals and the environment and encouraging active participation.

Abigail provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, projects, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about the environment and conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about the EMC Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities. They also actively participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity.

The members also showed keen interest in exploring and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours and scavenger hunts. Some members also asked questions about the technology used to maintain a healthy environment, such as drones, camera traps, GPS devices, and cameras, as well as learning to use these tools. Additionally, members inquired about career options in the environmental and STEM fields after the interactions with the EMC Foundation team.

Students also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and participating in future activities. They also requested to view videos developed by the EMC Group, such as camera trap videos and a video on turtle telemetry. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the curriculum.

The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Environmental Club Initiation Visit

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Bingo” and “Eco-Wordsearch” Activities

Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team

Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation publications

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

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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.

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

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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.

The EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to strengthen environmental education and awareness by collaborating with thirty-six environmental clubs across Guyana. These include Queen’s College, The Bishop’s High School, St. Stanislaus College, St. Rose’s High School, Marian Academy (Primary and Secondary), School of the Nations (Primary and Secondary), Saxacalli Primary, De Hoop Primary, Little Biaboo Primary, St. Cuthbert’s Mission Primary and Secondary, Moraikobai Primary, Santa Aratak Primary, Wakapau Secondary, Warapoka Primary and Secondary, Georgetown International Academy (Primary and Secondary), Open Doors Centre, Tapakuma Primary School, Rosignol Primary, Mashabo Primary, La Bonne Intention Secondary, Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary, Beterverwagting Primary and Secondary, Plaisance Primary and Secondary, Tutorial High School, Chateau Margot Primary, Abram Zuil Secondary, Tuschen Secondary, and Lake Capoey Primary.

In December 2025, the Foundation expanded its reach through partnerships with two additional clubs, Abram Zuil Secondary School and Lake Capoey Primary School, further advancing its mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education. An additional fourteen clubs also expressed interest in joining the E-STEM Program.

For the Primary Ecosystems Work Plan in December 2025, the topics completed included Ecosystems, Maps and Drones, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Plant Identification, Plant Adaptations, and Animal Adaptations. Club members were introduced to camera traps as tools for monitoring wildlife, learning about their parts, uses, and setup methods, and understanding their importance in studying animal behaviour and supporting conservation efforts.

Students were also trained in the parts, functions, and applications of drones for environmental monitoring, mapping, and disaster response, with sessions covering safety procedures, equipment setup, and basic flight practice. Lessons on plant adaptations explored how species adjust to different environments through structural, physiological, and behavioural traits, using real-world examples such as cacti, mangroves, and water lilies. This learning was reinforced through field activities and a plant adaptation identification assessment. As part of the Animal Identification and Animal Adaptation lessons, club members learned to classify animals as vertebrates and invertebrates and explored their ecological roles, including their importance as pollinators.

Throughout the program, students created drawings, posters, and dioramas, viewed educational videos and presentations, and actively participated in class discussions. Field trips allowed them to conduct hands-on plant and animal identification exercises and to further examine plant and animal adaptations within natural environments.

Club members also learned about the different types of ecosystems, the threats they face, and practical measures for protecting them. They explored food chains and food webs, the organisms involved, and how animals are adapted to survive in specific habitats. Additionally, they examined how maps, compasses, and GPS technology can support the protection of ecosystems and wildlife.

Over forty students participated in the program during the month, engaging in presentations, discussions, and creative projects that fostered curiosity, critical thinking, and practical understanding of environmental science. These experiences strengthened students’ awareness of key issues such as pollution prevention, composting, and water quality, while encouraging them to contribute to a cleaner, greener future within their schools and communities.

The EMC Foundation remains committed to empowering youth through environmental education, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and passion to experience, connect, and act for a sustainable Guyana.

The EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program is being implemented with the support of the ExxonMobil Foundation.

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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.

On December 19, 2025, the EMC Foundation hosted its annual Environmental Club Coordinators Connect, bringing together coordinators of the environmental clubs that are part of the Foundation’s E-STEM Program. The event celebrated the vital role coordinators play in guiding young minds and served as a pivotal planning session for the 2026 expansion of the E-STEM Program.

The workshop welcomed teachers, headteachers, and community leaders from eighteen schools across Guyana, all actively implementing the E-STEM Program curriculum in approximately 50 schools and villages along the coast. Participating schools included Little Biaboo Primary, Marian Academy Secondary, Tutorial High School, Tapakuma Lake Primary, St. Rose’s High School, Abram Zuil Secondary School, St. Stanislaus College, Tuschen Secondary, Good Hope Secondary, Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary, St. Cuthbert’s Primary, De Hoop Primary, Saxacalli Primary, Mashabo Primarry, Open Doors Centre, Lake Capoey Primary and Nismes Secondary.

The Connect focused on recognising the contributions of coordinators throughout 2025, fostering collaboration, encouraging constructive feedback, and planning the 2026 activities. Coordinators also discussed strategies for expanding clubs, not only in numbers but also in innovative activities that align with the Foundation’s mission of nurturing youth environmental awareness.

Activities included a SWOT analysis exercise, where coordinators identified the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats facing their clubs. This exercise not only assessed the current state of the clubs but also offered an opportunity to brainstorm solutions and explore new possibilities. Icebreaker and networking sessions allowed coordinators to connect, share experiences, and demonstrate their passion for environmental education and youth mentorship.

Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta, delivered remarks thanking the coordinators for their dedication to guiding youths toward environmental responsibility and STEM excellence. He also shared the Foundation’s vision for 2026, “We want to work with you to advance the use of technology in the new year. For example, during sessions on renewable energy, students should be able to see and interact with solar panels, understand how they work, and gain hands-on experience. We also aim to provide club members with experiences such as tours, nature walks, and mangrove explorations.”

In recognition of their invaluable contributions, the EMC Foundation, in partnership with the ExxonMobil Foundation, presented coordinators with appreciation hampers. These tokens symbolised gratitude for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to promoting positive change within their communities.

The event concluded successfully, with coordinators sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and expressing enthusiasm for the growth and expansion of the E-STEM Program in 2026.

EMC Foundation Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh, Facilitating the Session

Mr. Shyam Nokta Providing Brief Remarks

Club Coordinators Participating in the Icebreaker Activities

Club Coordinators Participating in the SWOT Analysis Exercise

Club Coordinators Networking with the EMC Foundation and ExxonMobil Foundation Teams

Club Coordinators Receiving their Tokens of Appreciation

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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.

On December 13, 2025, the EMC Foundation hosted a Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session in St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), Mahaica. The session brought together community members and stakeholders who regularly interact with otters, as well as individuals interested in the conservation of this iconic species. This event forms part of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program within the Mahaica Watershed, which aims to strengthen conservation efforts for this endangered species through education, community engagement, monitoring, and research.

The session focused on raising awareness about otter ecology, threats to their survival, and the importance of community stewardship. Participants gained insights into the biology, behaviour, feeding habits, social structures, and breeding patterns of otters, with a particular focus on the Giant River Otter. Discussions also highlighted the critical role of freshwater ecosystems, such as rivers and wetlands, for both otters and the communities that rely on these waterways.

Led by Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh, and supported by Environmental Officers, Neesa Azam and Noah Sills, the session welcomed eleven participants, including village councillors, tourism operators, tour guides, fishermen, an environmental club member, and a Peace Corps volunteer.

The session began with a fun, interactive icebreaker titled “If you were an otter, what would you do all day?”, capturing participants’ interest while gauging their existing knowledge. This was followed by a presentation and group discussions on otter species in Guyana, their ecological roles, habitat characteristics, and major threats within the Mahaica Watershed.

Residents shared valuable local knowledge, confirming that both otter species found in Guyana, the Giant River Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) and the Neotropical River Otter (Lontra longicaudis), are present in the Mahaica River. They highlighted additional environmental concerns, such as saltwater intrusion during extreme dry seasons, which can impact freshwater habitats and food supplies for otters. Encouragingly, participants reported no conflicts with otters and noted that the animals are widely appreciated for their hunting and fishing skills, as well as their playful nature.

This Community Conservation Session is a key component of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program, supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation. Beyond raising awareness, it provides an important platform to connect with communities, gather local knowledge, and better understand the challenges affecting otters, other wildlife, and the broader environment.

Sarah Singh Facilitating the Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session at Pakuri

Sarah Singh Interacting with Attendees During the Session

Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session

Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session

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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.

On November 25, 2025, the EMC Foundation hosted its first Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session in Little Biaboo, Mahaica, bringing together representatives from key communities along the Mahaica River, including Unity, DeHoop and Little Biaboo. This session forms part of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program within the Mahaica Watershed, which aims to strengthen the conservation of this endangered species through education and awareness initiatives, community engagement, monitoring, and research.

The session focused on raising awareness about otter ecology, the threats they face, and the importance of community stewardship. Participants were introduced to the otter species found in Guyana, with a focus on the giant river otter, while gaining a deeper understanding of otter biology and behaviour, including feeding habits, social structure, and breeding patterns. The discussions also emphasised the vital importance of freshwater ecosystems such as rivers and wetlands to both otters and the communities that rely on these waterways.

Led by the EMC Foundation’s Program Coordinator Sarah Singh, and supported by Environmental Officers Neesa Azam and Dimitri Thom, the session brought together eleven individuals, including tour operators, tour guides, and fishermen, who regularly interact with the river ecosystem and giant river otters.

The session opened with a light, interactive icebreaker titled “If you were an otter, what would you do all day?”, which helped capture participants’ interest while gauging their existing knowledge. This was followed by a presentation and group discussions on otter species in Guyana, their role in the ecosystem, habitat characteristics, and major threats within the Mahaica Watershed.

During the engagement, residents shared valuable insights. They reported that both species of otters found in Guyana – the Giant River Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) and the Neotropical River Otter (Lontra longicaudis), are present in the Mahaica River. They also noted sightings of manatees in the Mahaica River. However, residents also raised major concerns, including reports of hunters using otters as target practice. This troubling behaviour was reported to the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission, which has since issued a public statement on the matter.

Participants took part in several hands-on activities, including identifying otter habitats and threats, as well as exploring the physical characteristics of Giant River Otters using balata figurines. As a token of appreciation, attendees received EMC Foundation–designed Giant River Otter educational stickers for their active participation.

This Community Conservation Session is a critical component of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program within the Mahaica Watershed, which is being supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation. Beyond raising awareness, it serves as an important platform to connect with communities, gather local knowledge, and better understand the challenges affecting otters, other wildlife, and the broader environment.

Sarah Singh Facilitating the Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session

EMC Foundation Team Members Interacting with Attendees During the Session

Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation publications on Otters and the Mahaica Watershed

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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.