On March 27, 2026, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Winfer Gardens Primary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by 47 students from Grades one to six and two 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,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Siddi Nandkishore, Projects Assistant, and Sasha Singh, Intern. This interactive activity 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. Following the icebreaker, a short quiz segment was conducted to test the students’ environmental knowledge, further encouraging participation and engagement.
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 the Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities, and asked many questions about what they would be learning throughout the club’s curriculum.
The students listened intently to the presentation, actively engaging by asking and answering questions about camera traps, mangroves, ecosystems, and the overall environment.
The club members also actively participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity, which taught them problem-solving skills while reinforcing common phrases associated with Guyana’s environment.
The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours, scavenger hunts, arts and craft activities, and learning to operate drones and camera traps. The session included a viewing of camera trap footage, which amazed the students and allowed them to identify several local animals.
Students 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 expressed interest in becoming environmentalists and were excited to begin the Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and engaging exercises outlined in the work plan.
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-Wordsearch” 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
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 and the Protected Areas Trust (PAT) officially launched Conservation Conversations, a new monthly initiative designed to bring together environmental stakeholders from across Guyana to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and strengthen partnerships for conservation.
On March 26, 2026, the inaugural event, held at the Avenue Café, welcomed more than 30 participants, including representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations, environmental clubs, private-sector partners, youth groups, and international collaborators. The event marked the beginning of a platform intended to encourage dialogue and inspire practical action for the protection of Guyana’s natural environment.
Conservation Conversations was created to provide a regular forum for professionals, community representatives, students, and conservation practitioners to discuss environmental challenges and benefit from the experiences of organisations operating on the ground. The series attempts to highlight a variety of conservation approaches by presenting a different organisation each month, ranging from community-led projects to scientific research and environmental education.
The session began with remarks from Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, who described Conservation Conversations as more than just a series of events. She stated that the initiative aims to establish a long-term platform for meaningful dialogue that could lead to action and stronger conservation partnerships.
Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation and Chairman of PAT, then emphasised the importance of increased collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the face of environmental challenges such as biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and climate-related pressures. He emphasised the importance of platforms like Conservation Conversations in connecting experts, community leaders, and the general public, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for conservation.
The inaugural session featured the South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS), a community-driven non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting the ecosystems, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the Rupununi. Representatives of SRCS attending the event included Maya de Freitas, Erin Earl, Leroy Ignacio, Angelbert Johnny, and Huichang Yang.
SRCS used the platform to present on its history and evolution from a small community response in the late 1990s to a leading community-based conservation organisation in the Rupununi, formally established in 2002. The organisation highlighted its Community Conservation Areas as a key approach to protecting ecosystems while empowering local communities through activities such as habitat restoration, ecological monitoring, and sustainable resource management.
SRCS also shared insights on its wider programmes, including wildlife monitoring, species protection, environmental education, bird guide training, and traditional skills development. Grounded in both scientific research and traditional knowledge, the organisation continues to safeguard biodiversity, support Indigenous communities, and address emerging threats, including mining and potential oil development.
Following the presentation, attendees participated in a question-and-answer segment moderated by Oleta Williams, who also provided closing remarks. Participants then engaged in a networking session that fostered meaningful conversations, the exchange of ideas, and the exploration of potential collaborations across sectors and communities.
Sarah Singh Delivering the Opening Remarks
Mr. Shyam Nokta Delivering Brief Remarks
Representatives of SRCS Presenting on the Organisation’s Work
Oleta Williams Delivering the Closing Remarks
Mr. Shyam Nokta with the Protected Areas Trust Team
Mr. Shyam Nokta with the EMC Foundation Team
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.
On March 20, 2026, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Soesdyke Secondary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by approximately 300 students from Forms one to five and five 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, “Fact or Fiction,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Siddi Nandkishore, Projects Assistant, and Sasha Singh, Intern. In this interactive activity, students responded to a variety of statements by choosing to sit or stand depending on whether they believed each one was true or false. This created a fun and welcoming atmosphere while encouraging participation and critical thinking.
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 students were highly engaged and eager to learn, actively asking and answering questions about camera traps, drones, and GPS technology and their uses in wildlife monitoring. The session also included a viewing of camera trap footage, which amazed the students and allowed them to identify several local animals, prompting further discussion about the wildlife they saw. Students also expressed a strong interest in participating in a tour to gain firsthand experience in the field.
By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities, participate in the fun exercises outlined in the work plans, and had gained a greater appreciation for environmental work, which may inspire them to become future environmentalists.
The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.
Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Session
Club Members Engaging in the “Fact or Fiction” 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
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 March 19, 2026, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to J.C. Chandisingh Secondary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by approximately 15 students from Forms one to five and two 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-Bingo,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Siddi Nandkishore, Projects Assistant, and Sasha Singh, Intern. This interactive activity created a fun and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging students to reflect on their personal environmental habits and inspiring them to adopt more sustainable practices.
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 the Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities.
The club members also participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity, which introduced problem-solving skills while teaching common phrases related to Guyana’s environment. The students were highly engaged and eager to learn, actively asking and answering questions about camera traps, drones, and GPS technology, and their uses in wildlife monitoring. The session also included a viewing of camera trap footage, which amazed the students and allowed them to identify several local animals.
By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities, participate in the fun exercises outlined in the work plans, and had gained a greater appreciation for environmental work.
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” Activity
Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Wordsearch” 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
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 March 19, 2026, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Karamat Primary School Environmental Club to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by approximately 30 students from Grades one to six and six 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,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Siddi Nandkishore, Projects Assistant. 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 the Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities.
The club members actively participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” and “Eco-Bingo” activities. The “Eco-Wordsearch” helped build problem-solving skills while reinforcing common environmental phrases, while “Eco-Bingo” provided a fun and engaging way to connect environmental concepts. The students listened intently to the presentation, while asking and answering questions about mangroves, ecosystems and the overall environment.
The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours, scavenger hunts, arts and craft activities, 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 “Planet Earth Says” Activity
Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Wordsearch” Activity
Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Bingo” 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
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 forty-two 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, Annandale Secondary, Good Hope Secondary, Beterverwagting Primary and Secondary, Plaisance Primary and Secondary, Lusignan Primary, Tutorial High School, Chateau Margot Primary, Abram Zuil Secondary, Tuschen Secondary, Nismes Secondary, Lake Capoey Primary, North Georgetown Secondary and Mon Repos Primary.
In February 2026, the Foundation expanded its reach through partnerships with one additional club, Mon Repos Primary School, further advancing our mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education in Guyana.
For the Primary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for February 2026, the topics completed were Ecosystems, Food Chains, Camera Traps, Drones, Maps and Compasses, Plant Identification, Plant Adaptation and End of Term Presentations. Club members learned about different types of ecosystems, the threats they face, and measures that can be taken to reduce these threats. They explored the components of food chains and how these elements are interconnected within ecosystems. The members were also introduced to environmental monitoring devices and how they are used to monitor wildlife and environmental conditions. Additionally, they examined various plants and learned about different methods used to preserve them.
For the Primary ‘Responsible Waste Management’ Work Plan for February 2026, the topics completed were Composting, Noise Monitoring and Waste Disposal. The club members explored the importance of composting, the importance of monitoring noise in the environment and how to effectively dispose of waste.
For the Primary ‘Energy Efficiency’ Work Plan for February 2026, the topic completed was Sources of Energy. The club members identified the various sources of energy, how to conserve them and their importance.
For the Secondary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for February 2026, the topics completed were Ecosystem Functions, Nutrient Cycles and Biodiversity. The club members learned about the various types of ecosystems and what they are comprised of. They explored the various cycles that power these ecosystems and the various organisms that inhabit them. For the Secondary ‘Energy Efficiency’ Work Plan, the topics completed were Renewable Energy and Wind Energy. The club members were introduced to renewable energy and its benefits. They learned about wind energy, including the various devices used to generate it and how this form of energy can be utilised.
Throughout the program, club members created posters, drawings, and presentations, watched educational videos, and actively participated in class discussions. They also explored their environment through nature walks and produced creative projects such as dioramas, which helped reinforce their understanding of the topics while encouraging observation and hands-on learning.
More than 200 club members participated in the program during the month, participating in presentations, discussions, and creative projects that promoted curiosity, critical thinking, and a practical understanding of environmental science. Through these activities, they developed a stronger awareness of environmental challenges and learned ways to help prevent and reduce these threats.
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.
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 March 12, 2026, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Westminster Secondary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, attended by approximately 25 Form 4 students and two 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-Bingo,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Siddi Nandkishore, Projects Assistant, Aletha Jewanram, Administrative Officer, and Sasha Singh, Intern. This interactive activity created a fun and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging students to reflect on their personal environmental habits and inspiring them to adopt more sustainable practices.
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 the Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities.
The club members also participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity, which introduced problem-solving skills while teaching common phrases related to Guyana’s environment. The students were highly engaged and eager to learn, actively asking and answering questions about camera traps, drones, and GPS technology, and their uses in wildlife monitoring. The session also included a viewing of camera trap footage, which amazed the students and allowed them to identify several local animals, prompting further discussion about the wildlife they saw.
By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities, participate in the fun exercises outlined in the work plans, and had gained a greater appreciation for the environment, which may inspire them to become future environmentalists.
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” Activity
Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Wordsearch” Activity
Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team
Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation Publications
Club Members Viewing Activities Implemented by the EMC Group
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 proudly participated in the World Wildlife Day Fair held on March 1, 2026, at the Georgetown Zoological Park. Hosted by the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission in observance of World Wildlife Day, the event brought together environmental organisations and conservation enthusiasts to celebrate biodiversity under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.”
The EMC Foundation booth was a hub of activity throughout the event, as our interactive games and activities, rainforest corner, and vibrant publications drew the attention of many visitors, who engaged meaningfully with our team while learning about wildlife and conserving the environment.
Interactive activities played a key role in attracting conservation enthusiasts. Face painting, colouring pages, and educational word games captured the attention of children while also encouraging parents to participate. These activities provided an enjoyable way for visitors to learn about wildlife and conservation while spending quality time together.
One of the key highlights of the booth was the Rainforest Corner, which featured seeds and natural materials collected from the Saxacalli rainforest. This display sparked curiosity among visitors and opened the door for meaningful conversations about biodiversity, forest ecosystems, medicinal and aromatic plants and the importance of conserving plant species.
Many visitors were also drawn to the Foundation’s growing publication line, demonstrating increasing public interest in accessible environmental information and conservation resources. The recently launched ‘Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book’ also drew lots of attention and commendation from first-time viewers.
Throughout the event, the EMC Foundation team ensured that visitors had opportunities to learn while having fun. Our team members answered questions, explained the Foundation’s work, and guided participants through interactive games focused on medicinal plants and wildlife.
Giveaways such as our publications, EMC Foundation keyrings, ‘Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook’ flash drives, EMC Foundation stickers, and branded pencils proved popular and helped maintain steady engagement at the booth.
Overall, the World Wildlife Day Fair provided a valuable platform for the EMC Foundation to connect with the public, promote environmental awareness, and inspire the next generation of conservation advocates. Through interactive learning, engaging displays, and meaningful conversations, the Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Guyana’s rich biodiversity and fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Face Painting and Environmental Talks at the Booth
Visitors Participating in Activity Pages and Interactive Games at the Booth
Visitors Interacting with the EMC Foundation’s Rainforest Corner
Visitors Interacting with EMC Foundation Publications at the Booth
Visitors Interacting with the EMC Foundation Selfie Frame at the Booth
EMC Foundation Team Members interacting with Visitors
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.
In celebration of World Wildlife Day 2026, themed “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” the EMC Foundation officially launched the “Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book” at the Saxacalli Rainforest Centre. The event, celebrated with prominent personalities and enthusiastic attendees of the Saxacalli Primary School and Environmental Club, marked a significant step in promoting rainforest and biodiversity conservation and education among Guyana’s youth.
The activity book is an interactive educational resource designed to engage learners of all ages with the biodiversity of the Saxacalli rainforest. Through reading, colouring and crossword activities, the publication encourages environmental awareness and conservation-oriented thinking. By introducing children to the flora and fauna of the region, the book aims to cultivate curiosity and foster long-term connections to Guyana’s natural heritage.
The launch featured remarks from speakers who highlighted the importance of environmental education. The Minister of Education, Honourable Sonia Parag, emphasised that safeguarding natural ecosystems is integral to national development, noting that environmental stewardship protects both natural wealth and collective well-being. References were also made to the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the establishment of the Global Biodiversity Alliance, that position Guyana as a global advocate for ecosystem protection.
Honourable Sonia Parag reiterated her commitment to environmental learning and youth participation in conservation initiatives. Partnerships with organisations such as the EMC Foundation have enabled the establishment and expansion of environmental clubs in schools and the integration of E-STEM programmes that combine science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with practical ecological studies. Students are introduced to modern conservation tools, including camera traps and field-based research methods, providing experiential learning opportunities that transform the rainforest into a living laboratory.
Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta, reflected on the organisation’s longstanding relationship with the Saxacalli community and commended local educators and leaders for their dedication to sustainable development. He emphasised the importance of collaborative initiatives that empower communities to protect natural resources while fostering economic and educational growth.
Toshao Helen Williams of Saxacalli highlighted the community’s enduring connection to the rainforest and its biodiversity. She noted that traditional knowledge and sustainable practices have long guided the village’s relationship with nature. The Environmental Club, supported by the EMC Foundation’s E-STEM programme, provides young participants with opportunities for field-based learning, wildlife observation, and environmental discussions. These activities aim to cultivate environmental responsibility and awareness among the next generation.
The Toshao also underscored the role of conservation in supporting sustainable tourism and economic development. Eco-tourism initiatives that showcase Saxacalli’s biodiversity and cultural heritage create opportunities for community growth while promoting environmental protection. Visitors who engage with the rainforest gain a deeper understanding of its ecological significance and the value of Indigenous knowledge, reinforcing the importance of responsible stewardship.
A key feature of the programme was a guided trail walk along the Kokorite trail of the Saxacalli rainforest, where participants explored native plant species and their traditional and ecological benefits. The walk provided hands-on learning about medicinal and aromatic plants, an essential component of the World Wildlife Day theme, and demonstrated how these species contribute to health, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods. Participants engaged in discussions about plant identification, traditional uses, and the importance of conserving forest ecosystems as reservoirs of biological and cultural knowledge.
The launch programme also featured a performance by members of the Saxacalli Environmental Club, who presented a skit rooted in themes of cultural identity and environmental stewardship. The narrative followed a father and his daughter, Hiaro, as they ventured into the rainforest to hunt. Traditionally, hunting is often depicted as a male-dominated activity, yet the skit presented a nuanced portrayal of empowerment—showing a young Indigenous girl supported by her father in learning traditional skills and ecological knowledge.
Hiaro’s journey symbolised the intersection of culture and conservation. Her name, meaning “girl” in Arawak, reflected Indigenous heritage and the importance of preserving linguistic and cultural traditions alongside environmental stewardship. When her father is bitten by a labaria snake, Hiaro relies on traditional knowledge to locate the black yari yari plant, a medicinal species used to treat the injury. Through her encounters with rainforest animals, the narrative explored ecological concepts such as biodiversity, nutrient cycles, and the interdependence of species, illustrating that human survival is intrinsically linked to the health of natural ecosystems.
The launch of the Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book represents a collaborative achievement between the community, educators, and partners such as the EMC Foundation. The publication provides an accessible and engaging means for children and families to explore the rainforest’s biodiversity, fostering environmental awareness and pride in Guyana’s natural heritage.
By prioritising environmental education, the EMC Foundation and its partners are investing in future generations of conservation-minded citizens. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development and ecological preservation, ensuring that communities remain active participants in safeguarding their natural environment.
As the Saxacalli community continues to champion education and conservation, the activity book stands as a testament to the power of knowledge in shaping environmental stewardship. Through collaborative efforts, the initiative seeks to inspire a generation that values sustainability and recognises the intrinsic connection between people and nature.
Minister of Education, Hon. Sonia Parag, Delivering Feature Remarks
EMC Foundation Founder and Director, Mr. Shyam Nokta, Providing Brief Remarks
Toshao of Saxacalli Village, Ms. Helen Williams, Providing Brief Remarks
Officials Receiving their “Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book”
Saxacalli Primary Students Receiving their “Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book”
Attendees During a Nature Walk through the Saxacalli Rainforest
Saxacalli Primary Environmental Club Members During the Rainforest Skit
Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation’s Rainforest Corner
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 February 20, 2026, the EMC Foundation proudly participated in the Youth Forum of the 2026 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, engaging hundreds of young environmental enthusiasts and showcasing the organisation’s growing environmental awareness initiatives.
The forum provided a meaningful platform to connect with students, professionals, and ExxonMobil Guyana Community Partners, inspiring conversations about sustainability and encouraging participants to become active stewards of the environment and champions of climate-smart decision-making. Through interactive discussions, the EMC Foundation team answered questions about environmental monitoring technologies such as drones, GPS devices, and camera traps, highlighting how innovation supports modern conservation efforts.
Participants showed keen interest in the Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programme in the Mahaica Watershed and at the Saxacalli Rainforest Centre, where advanced tools are used to gather data and strengthen research that informs conservation strategies. These initiatives demonstrate how technology and environmental stewardship work together to protect ecosystems and promote evidence-based decision-making.
A key highlight of the event was the promotion of the Foundation’s E-STEM Programme, which integrates environmental conservation with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. By combining hands-on learning with environmental awareness, the programme equips young Guyanese with practical skills that support sustainable development and responsible resource management, preparing the next generation to solve environmental challenges with creativity and innovation.
The Foundation also spotlighted its Giant River Otter Conservation in the Mahaica River Programme, an initiative dedicated to protecting the giant river otter and its habitats while safeguarding Guyana’s forests and freshwater ecosystems. This programme underscores the importance of biodiversity and the interconnectedness of healthy ecosystems and community well-being.
Another major attraction was the debut of the EMC Foundation Information Tree, a vibrant and interactive display showcasing the organisation’s environmental awareness publications. The Information Tree encouraged visitors to engage with the educational materials, which will soon be displayed in schools across Guyana, expanding environmental knowledge and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders.
The booth also featured interactive games and educational activities designed to engage participants of all ages. Through learning and play, visitors deepened their understanding of environmental issues and practical solutions while having the chance to win eco-friendly prizes, including EMC Foundation publications, biodiversity-themed stickers, keyrings, and audio resources such as the Arya Takes a Swim audiobook. These activities ensured participants left with memorable experiences and valuable insights into the importance of environmental responsibility.
This engagement reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities, advancing environmental education, and driving meaningful action toward a sustainable future. The EMC Foundation extends heartfelt appreciation to ExxonMobil Guyana for the invitation and to the hundreds of youths who enthusiastically participated, demonstrating a shared passion for environmental stewardship and positive change.
Visitors Interacting with the EMC Foundation Information Tree and Publications
Visitors Interacting with the EMC Foundation’s Drones and Camera Traps
Visitors Engaging with the EMC Foundation Interactive Games and Prizes
EMC Foundation Team Members Interacting with Visitors at the Booth
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.
