Sarah Singh

On September 30, 2026, the EMC Foundation hosted its second Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session in Little Biaboo, Mahaica, bringing together approximately 12 community members to learn about the importance of giant river otters, biodiversity and healthy freshwater ecosystems.

The session forms part of the Foundation’s Giant River Otter Education and Conservation Program in the Mahaica Watershed, which focuses on biodiversity monitoring, research, education and public awareness to support the conservation of this endangered species. Through these initiatives, the Foundation seeks to strengthen community understanding of the relationship between wildlife conservation, ecosystem health and human well-being.

Building on the first community conservation session held in Little Biaboo in November 2025, the second session expanded discussions beyond otter biology, behaviour, habitat and threats to examine the species’ role within the wider ecosystem.

Facilitated by EMC Foundation Program Coordinator Sarah Singh, with support from Caren Wilfred, Cherise Roberts, Sasha Singh and Trevor Emmanuel, the session featured presentations, interactive activities and group discussions designed to encourage participants to learn more about the connections between giant river otters and the biodiversity of the Mahaica Watershed.

A key focus was the role of giant river otters as apex predators within freshwater ecosystems. Participants examined their position in the food web and explored how relationships between otters, fish populations, aquatic plants and other wildlife contribute to ecosystem functioning. These discussions highlighted the interconnected nature of freshwater habitats and the importance of maintaining the ecological balance that supports diverse species.

The session also explored the rich biodiversity of the Mahaica wetlands and the importance of protecting the rivers, wetlands and surrounding habitats that sustain both wildlife and local communities. Participants discussed how biodiversity contributes to ecosystem stability and resilience, as well as the benefits healthy ecosystems provide through food resources, livelihoods and other essential ecosystem services.

Interactive activities encouraged participants to share their observations and experiences of the Mahaica River, particularly their encounters with giant river otters and other wildlife. These exchanges created opportunities to incorporate local knowledge into discussions about species occurrence, habitat conditions and the threats facing wildlife throughout the watershed.

The session concluded with questions, reflections and participant feedback, reinforcing the importance of continued community involvement in conservation efforts. By providing opportunities for residents to learn, exchange knowledge and reflect on the value of their natural environment, the EMC Foundation continues to encourage community participation in the conservation and protection of the Mahaica Watershed.

Through its Giant River Otter Education and Conservation Program, the EMC Foundation is working to strengthen awareness of this iconic species while highlighting the broader importance of biodiversity conservation. The program recognises that protecting giant river otters also means protecting the freshwater ecosystems upon which countless other species and local communities depend.

Participants During the Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session

Sarah Singh Facilitating the Session

Participants Engaging in Giant River Otter Discussions During the Session

Participant Engaging with an EMC Foundation Publication on the Mahaica River

Participants Engaging with the EMC Foundation Selfie Frame

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 September 11, 2026, the EMC Foundation visited the De Hoop Primary Environmental Club for an interactive session introducing club members to camera traps and their role in wildlife monitoring and environmental conservation.

The session was facilitated by Projects Assistant, Caren Wilfred, and supported by Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator; Sasha Singh and Cherise Roberts, Projects Assistants; and Trevor Emanuel, Driver and Field Assistant.

The activity began with an environmental-themed version of the popular “Dog and the Bone” game, led by Sasha with support from Caren. The game provided a fun and energetic introduction to some of the animals found in Guyana while encouraging club members to learn through play.

The club members then took part in a hands-on camera-trap activity. They learned about the different components of a camera trap, how the equipment works and why it is used for wildlife monitoring. Club members had the opportunity to examine the equipment, help identify a suitable location and assist with setting up the camera trap.

To demonstrate how camera traps capture wildlife, the club members pretended to be different animals and walked in front of the camera, showing how movement can trigger the equipment. The activity sparked plenty of curiosity, with club members asking thoughtful questions about camera traps and how they are used to study wildlife.

The club members later reviewed footage previously captured by EMC Foundation camera traps in the Mahaica Watershed. They enthusiastically identified animals they recognised, while Sarah helped them identify unfamiliar species and learn more about the wildlife captured on camera.

The session concluded with closing remarks from Caren, who thanked Ms. Bibi and the club members for welcoming the EMC Foundation team and participating enthusiastically throughout the activities.

The visit provided club members with an engaging introduction to wildlife monitoring while demonstrating how technology can be used to explore, document and better understand Guyana’s rich biodiversity. Through hands-on learning and interaction, the club members gained a greater appreciation for the role they can play in understanding and protecting the natural environment.

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

Club Members Participating in the Animal-Themed “Dog And The Bone” Game

Sarah Singh Leading the Indoor Camera-Trap Session

Sasha Singh Demonstrating How to Set Up the Camera Trap

Club members Reviewing the Camera-Trap Footage

Caren Wilfred Delivering Closing Remarks

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 September 11, 2026, the EMC Foundation visited the Little Biaboo Primary Environmental Club in Mahaica for an interactive session introducing club members to camera traps and their role in environmental monitoring, wildlife research and conservation.

The session was facilitated by Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, and supported by Caren Wilfred, Sasha Singh and Cherise Roberts, all Projects Assistants, and Trevor Emanuel, Driver and Field Assistant.

The session began with a fun, environmental-themed version of the popular “Dog and the Bone” game. Club members were invited to choose an animal they wanted to represent, creating an energetic and engaging start to the session while introducing them to some of the animals found in Guyana.

The club members then took part in a hands-on camera-trap activity. They learned about the different components of a camera trap, how the equipment works and why it is used for wildlife monitoring. Club members had the opportunity to examine the equipment, help identify a suitable location and assist with setting up the camera trap.

To demonstrate how camera traps capture wildlife, the club members pretended to be different animals and walked in front of the camera, showing how movement can trigger the equipment. The activity sparked plenty of curiosity, with club members asking thoughtful questions about camera traps and how they are used to study wildlife.

The club members later reviewed footage previously captured by EMC Foundation camera traps in the Mahaica Watershed. They enthusiastically identified animals they recognised, while Sarah helped them identify unfamiliar species and learn more about the wildlife captured on camera.

The session concluded with closing remarks from Caren Wilfred, who thanked Ms. Keeran, the teachers and club members for welcoming the EMC Foundation team and for their enthusiastic participation throughout the activities.

The visit provided club members with a fun and practical introduction to camera-trap technology, while demonstrating how innovative tools can help us better understand, monitor and protect Guyana’s wildlife.

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

Club members Participating in the Animal-Themed “Dog And The Bone” Game

Team Members Conducting Camera Trap Demonstrations with Club Members

Club Members Reviewing Camera Trap Footage

Caren Wilfred Delivering Closing Remarks

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 continues to collaborate with seventy-one environmental clubs in Guyana. These are inclusive of Queen’s College, The Bishop’s High School, St. Stanislaus College, St. Rose’s High, Marian Academy Primary and Secondary, School of the Nations Primary and Secondary, Saxacalli Primary, De Hoop Primary, Little Biaboo Primary, St. Cuthbert’s Primary and Secondary, Moraikobai Primary, Santa Aratak Primary, Wakapau Secondary, Warapoka Primary and Secondary, Georgetown International Academy Primary and Secondary, Open Doors Centre, Tapakuma Lake Primary, 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, Lake Capoey Primary, Nismes Secondary, Good Hope Secondary, Annandale Secondary, Lusignan Primary, North Georgetown Secondary, Mon Repos Primary, Tuschen Secondary, Westminster Secondary, Karamat Primary, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, Soesdyke Secondary, Winfer Gardens Primary, Santa Rosa Primary and Secondary, Waramuri Primary and Secondary, Manawarin Primary, Kamwatta Primary and Secondary, Wallaba Primary, Huis’T Dieren Primary, Fisher Primary, Taymouth Manor Primary, Barabina Primary, Hosororo Primary, Kwebana Primary, Kwebana Secondary, St. Anthony’s Primary, 8th of May Primary, Konashen Primary, Kamwatta Primary (Mabaruma) and St. Bede’s Primary, Leonora Secondary, Hururu Secondary, Hururu Primary and Yarrowkabra Secondary.

In August 2026, the Foundation expanded its reach through partnerships with four additional clubs, further advancing our mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education in Guyana. These are Leonora Secondary, Hururu Secondary, Hururu Primary and Yarrowkabra Secondary.

For the Primary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for August 2026, the topics completed across the clubs were Ecosystems, Food Chains, Camera Traps, Drones, Plant Identification, Plant Adaptations, Animal Identification, and Animal Adaptations. For the Primary ‘Responsible Waste Management’ Work Plan for August 2026, the topics completed across the clubs were Composting, Pollution, Air Quality Monitoring, Water Quality Monitoring, Noise Monitoring, Waste Disposal, Reusing, Recycling, Reducing, Waste Audit, and End of Term Presentations. During August 2026, club members took part in activities covering ecosystems, food chains, environmental monitoring, plant and animal identification, and adaptations. Members were introduced to the different components and types of ecosystems, feeding relationships, and the roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers. They also learned about camera traps and drones, including their uses in environmental monitoring. Activities further focused on identifying plants and animals based on observable characteristics and understanding the physical features and behaviours that help organisms survive in their environments.

Throughout the month, members participated in presentations, videos, discussions, outdoor observations, field visits, demonstrations, question-and-answer activities, creative projects, ecosystem and food chain drawings, ecosystem models, and drone design and colouring activities. These activities encouraged members to work together, apply what they learned, and relate classroom lessons to their surroundings. A total of 74 students participated in Environmental Club activities during August 2026. Through these experiences, club members strengthened their knowledge of ecosystems, biodiversity, environmental monitoring, plant and animal identification, adaptations, and conservation while developing practical skills and a greater appreciation for the natural environment.

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 September 9, 2026, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to the Open Doors Centre to engage with the Environmental Club. Approximately 16 members, including one teacher and club members, participated in the session, which focused on camera traps, a topic covered under the “Ecosystems” Work Plan.

The session began with an interactive icebreaker, “Planet Earth Says,” facilitated by Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, alongside Projects Assistants Sasha Singh, Caren Wilfred and Cherise Roberts. The activity encouraged members to interact with the team while learning about animals and the environment, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere.

Sarah then introduced the members to camera traps, providing an overview of their purpose, components, applications, and methods of deployment for environmental monitoring. The members viewed a compilation of camera trap footage featuring various animal species and their behaviours before participating in a practical exercise. Working in groups, they selected target species and practised setting up the camera traps. They later reviewed the footage captured during the activity, which was met with excitement and laughter.

The visit also provided an opportunity for the club members and teacher to view EMC Foundation publications featuring the Foundation’s environmental work, wildlife documentation and community outreach initiatives. The session concluded with appreciation from Sasha, who thanked the participants for their enthusiasm and encouraged them to remain involved in upcoming Environmental Club activities.

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

Ms. Sarah Singh Facilitating the Session

Club Members Participating in the “Planet Earth Says” Activity

Club Members Viewing Camera Trap Footage

Club Members Engaging with the Camera Traps

Club Members Engaging with EMC Foundation Publications

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 September 4, 2026, the EMC Foundation proudly presented an EMC Foundation Information Tree to the University of Guyana’s Tain Campus in Berbice, further extending its commitment to environmental education, knowledge sharing, and greater awareness of Guyana’s natural heritage. The presentation brought together representatives of the EMC Foundation and the University of Guyana Tain Campus for the handover of the Information Tree, which features a curated collection of publications focused on Guyana’s environment, biodiversity, conservation, and natural heritage.

The Information Tree was presented by Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation to Mr. Philip DaSilva, Deputy Director of the Institute for Marine and Riverine Ecologies and Economies (IMAREE) at the University’s Berbice Campus. The presentation provided an opportunity to discuss how the resources can support students, lecturers, the campus library, and even the wider university community. It also explored opportunities for collaboration between the EMC Foundation and the University of Guyana.

The concept of the Information Tree was developed by EMC Foundation Founder and Director, Mr. Shyam Nokta, as a central space to display the Foundation’s growing collection of environmental publications. Developed under his guidance, the publications are designed to make information about Guyana’s natural environment accessible and engaging to different audiences.

For Mr. DaSilva, a biologist who has also taught at the University of Guyana, the Information Tree represents a valuable resource for students at the Tain Campus, particularly those interested in biology, biodiversity, and natural resource management. He noted that the publications could provide useful supplementary material for students, even where some resources are designed with younger audiences in mind. In his remarks, Mr. DaSilva also highlighted the potential for the Foundation’s resources to support students in understanding the connection between environmental conservation, natural resources, and sustainable economic opportunities. The presentation also opened discussions around potential collaboration, including connecting Foundation publications with relevant university courses, engaging lecturers, and exploring internship opportunities for students.

Mr. DaSilva expressed appreciation for the EMC Foundation Information Tree on behalf of the Berbice Campus and the wider University of Guyana. He noted that while online resources have changed how people access information, libraries continue to play an important role in encouraging reading and learning. He welcomed the Information Tree as a special addition to the library and recognised its potential to be both useful and well-used* by the campus community.

Through initiatives such as the Information Tree, the EMC Foundation continues to expand access to environmental knowledge, encourage curiosity, and inspire greater understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of Guyana’s natural environment.

Mr. Phillip DaSilva Engaging with the EMC Foundation Publications

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 September 3, 2026, the EMC Foundation proudly presented an EMC Foundation Information Tree to the National Library of Guyana, further strengthening its commitment to environmental education, knowledge sharing, and conservation.

The presentation brought together representatives of the EMC Foundation, ExxonMobil Foundation, and the National Library of Guyana for the handover of a collection of publications focused on Guyana’s environment, biodiversity and conservation.

The Information Tree was presented by Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, to Ms. Emiley King, Chief Librarian of the National Library of Guyana. Also present was Ms. Suzanne De Abreu, ExxonMobil Guyana STEM Initiative Lead, representing the ExxonMobil Foundation, a longstanding partner of the EMC Foundation.

Describing the Information Tree as a “tree of knowledge,” Mr. Nokta highlighted its role in making information about Guyana’s environment and conservation efforts more accessible to students and the wider public.

The Information Tree showcases a collection of educational and environmental publications developed by the EMC Foundation team. The collection includes Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves, Arya Takes a Swim, available in English and Lokono languages, Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures, Hidden Gems of the Botanical Gardens, the EMC Foundation 2025 Annual Report, Hidden Gems of the Mahaica River, Nature Hunt: Exploring Guyana Wordsearch, the Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book, the Saxacalli Rainforest Centre Information Booklet, the Secondary School Environmental Quiz Handbook, and Wonderful World of Mangroves. Together, these publications highlight Guyana’s biodiversity, ecosystems, conservation efforts, and environmental resources while providing engaging and accessible materials to support environmental education and awareness.

For Mr. Nokta, the presentation held particular personal significance. Reflecting on his longstanding connection to the National Library, he recalled spending many Saturday mornings at the institution as a student at nearby Bishop’s High School. He noted that his visits took place at a time when students depended heavily on libraries and books to access information, before the widespread availability of the internet and digital research tools. He commended the National Library team for continuing to provide a quiet, safe, and welcoming environment where students and members of the public can access information, explore books, and pursue lifelong learning.

Ms. De Abreu, representing the ExxonMobil Foundation, expressed pleasure at being part of the presentation and highlighted the longstanding partnership between ExxonMobil and the EMC Foundation.

She described the Information Tree as a fitting investment in environmental education, noting its potential to benefit students, teachers, and visitors to the National Library. She also highlighted the collection’s activity-based resources, which can help make learning about Guyana’s flora and fauna both engaging and enjoyable for younger audiences.

On behalf of the Committee of the National Library and the Ministry of Education, Ms. King expressed gratitude for the donation, describing the collection as a valuable resource on Guyana’s flora and fauna. She emphasised the importance of presenting environmental information in simple and accessible formats, particularly as technical information can sometimes be difficult for members of the wider learning community to understand.

According to Ms. King, the resources have the potential to help students, teachers, and members of the public better understand environmental issues and translate that knowledge into positive actions and practices that contribute to protecting Guyana’s environment.

She also welcomed the opportunity for the Information Tree to support the National Library’s programmes for children and young people. With children regularly visiting the library, particularly on Saturdays, during educational programmes, and throughout school holidays, the collection provides additional opportunities for engagement among children, parents, teachers, and library staff.

Ms. King further extended appreciation to the ExxonMobil Foundation for its continued support of the EMC Foundation and expressed hope that the partnership would continue as a long-term investment in education, environmental awareness, and the people of Guyana.

The presentation reflects the EMC Foundation’s continued efforts to make environmental knowledge more accessible and to connect education with meaningful action. By placing its publications within the National Library, the Foundation is helping to ensure that information about Guyana’s natural environment reaches new audiences and continues to inspire learning, awareness, and environmental conservation.

Engagements with the EMC Foundation Publications

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 August 26, 2026, the EMC Foundation hosted its 3rd Annual Environmental Club Coordinators Connect, bringing together approximately 40 Environmental Club Coordinators from Regions 1–6, along with the EMC Foundation team and representatives from the ExxonMobil Foundation. The event focused on recognising coordinators for their continued work, encouraging networking across the Environmental Clubs, and building practical skills in environmental monitoring.

The programme began with a warm welcome from Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, who welcomed representatives from the ExxonMobil Foundation, the EMC Foundation team, and Environmental Club Coordinators. She highlighted the event as an opportunity to recognise the contributions of coordinators, encourage collaboration, strengthen capacity, and prepare for the continued growth of the Environmental Clubs.

Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, also gave brief remarks, acknowledging the role of coordinators in encouraging young people to learn about and engage with the environment. He highlighted the E-STEM Program, which combines science, technology and hands-on outdoor learning, and encouraged coordinators to share their experiences and suggestions for strengthening the Environmental Clubs Program.

Mr. Alvin Abraham, President of the ExxonMobil Foundation, highlighted the Foundation’s support for EMC initiatives, including the E-STEM Program, Mangrove Centre, Mahaica River watershed project and Giant River Otter Conservation Program. He also emphasised the importance of encouraging young Guyanese to pursue STEM careers and recognised the role coordinators play in helping students develop confidence and leadership skills.

Coordinators were presented with appreciation packages from the EMC Foundation in recognition of their continued contributions to the Environmental Clubs Program. Tokens of appreciation were also presented to representatives from the ExxonMobil Foundation in recognition of their support. This was followed by an introduction and networking session, where coordinators shared information about their environmental clubs and had an opportunity to learn about one another’s work and exchange experiences.

A SWOT Analysis followed, allowing coordinators to discuss the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats affecting their clubs. The exercise provided an opportunity to share common challenges and identify areas for improvement.

The coordinators also participated in training on four environmental monitoring applications: eBird, Merlin Bird ID, iNaturalist and Avenza Maps. They installed the applications and practised using them to identify species and record observations, while learning how these tools can support biodiversity monitoring and the collection of environmental data.

The afternoon session of the Connect focused on camera trap and GPS training. Coordinators were introduced to camera traps and learned how to identify suitable locations for wildlife monitoring. They also practised recording deployment points using GPS devices and Avenza Maps. Camera trap footage featuring species such as coati, ocelot, jaguarundi, giant river otter and spectacled caiman was shared with the group before coordinators took part in an outdoor practical session to practise deploying the equipment.

The event concluded with reflections, closing remarks from Ms. Caren Wilfred, networking and refreshments. In her closing remarks, Caren thanked the coordinators for their participation, dedication and continued commitment to environmental education, and encouraged them to apply what they had learned and continue supporting one another. Coordinators were also encouraged to remain connected through the EMC Foundation Environmental Club Coordinators Group.

The third annual Environmental Club Coordinators Connect provided an opportunity to recognise the work of coordinators, share experiences and strengthen practical conservation skills. Through these continued engagements, the EMC Foundation is supporting coordinators in delivering environmental education and helping young people better understand and protect Guyana’s natural environment.

Sarah Singh Providing Opening Remarks

Mr. Shyam Nokta Delivering Brief Remarks

Mr. Alvin Abraham Delivering Brief Remarks

Club Coordinators During the Introductory Activity

Club Coordinators During the Networking Session

Club Coordinators During the SWOT Analysis Activity

Club Coordinators During the Environmental Monitoring Apps Training

Club Coordinators During the Camera Trap and GPS Training

Ms. Caren Wilfred Delivering Closing Remarks

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 recently welcomed Kitana Flores, a third-year Marine Biology student at the University of Guyana, for a six-week internship focused on building practical experience in environmental conservation.

Throughout her internship, Kitana worked alongside the EMC Foundation team and gained insight into the organisation’s diverse areas of work. Her responsibilities included supporting the development of communication materials, participating in stakeholder engagements, and assisting with camera trap deployment. These opportunities allowed her to apply knowledge gained through her studies to real-world environmental challenges and activities.

One of the highlights of Kitana’s internship was her participation in camera-trap deployment, which provided her with valuable hands-on field experience. She supported the installation of camera traps and learned how to use Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to accurately record and mark deployment locations.

The field experience offered Kitana an opportunity to strengthen her technical skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for how technology can support environmental monitoring and conservation efforts.

Throughout the six-week internship, Kitana demonstrated enthusiasm, professionalism, and a strong willingness to learn. Her experience not only strengthened her technical competencies but also broadened her understanding of the different approaches used to support environmental conservation in Guyana.

The EMC Foundation recognises the importance of providing students and emerging professionals with opportunities to gain practical experience beyond the classroom. Through internships, field activities, and other learning opportunities, the Foundation aims to help young people develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s environmental sector.

Kitana Flores Receiving Tokens of Appreciation from EMC Foundation Team Members

Kitana Flores Celebrating Emancipation with the EMC Foundation Team

Kitana Flores Participating in Conservation Conversations

Kitana Flores Conducting a Demonstration on Camera Traps

Kitana Flores Deploying a Camera Trap

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 continues to collaborate with sixty-seven environmental clubs in Guyana. These are inclusive of Queen’s College, The Bishop’s High School, St. Stanislaus College, St. Rose’s High, Marian Academy Primary and Secondary, School of the Nations Primary and Secondary, Saxacalli Primary, De Hoop Primary, Little Biaboo Primary, St. Cuthbert’s Primary and Secondary, Moraikobai Primary, Santa Aratak Primary, Wakapau Secondary, Warapoka Primary and Secondary, Georgetown International Academy Primary and Secondary, Open Doors Centre, Tapakuma Lake Primary, 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, Lake Capoey Primary, Nismes Secondary, Good Hope Secondary, Annandale Secondary, Lusignan Primary, North Georgetown Secondary, Mon Repos Primary, Tuschen Secondary, Westminster Secondary, Karamat Primary, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, Soesdyke Secondary, Winfer Gardens Primary, Santa Rosa Primary and Secondary, Waramuri Primary and Secondary, Manawarin Primary, Kamwatta Primary and Secondary, Wallaba Primary, Huis’T Dieren Primary, Fisher Primary, Taymouth Manor Primary, Barabina Primary, Hosororo Primary, Kwebana Primary, Kwebana Secondary, St. Anthony’s Primary, 8th of May Primary, Konashen Primary, Kamwatta Primary (Mabaruma) and St. Bede’s Primary.

In July 2026, the Foundation expanded its reach through partnerships with seven additional clubs, further advancing our mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education in Guyana. These are Kwebana Primary, Kwebana Secondary, St. Anthony’s Primary, 8th of May Primary, Konashen Primary, Kamwatta Primary (Mabaruma) and St. Bede’s Primary.

For the Primary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for July 2026, the topics completed across the clubs were Ecosystems, Food Chains, Camera Traps, Drones, Maps and Compasses, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Plant Identification, Plant Adaptations, Animal Identification, Animal Adaptations, and End-of-Term Presentations. Club members learned about ecosystems and food chains, environmental monitoring tools, navigation techniques, plant and animal identification, and the adaptations that enable organisms to survive in different environments. Activities included nature walks, outdoor observations, field trips, demonstrations, scavenger hunts, videos, group discussions, map and compass and GPS activities, plant and animal identification exercises, painting and colouring, and end-of-term presentations.

For the Secondary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for July 2026, the topics completed across the clubs included Ecosystem Components and Interactions, Ecosystem Functions and Nutrient Cycles, Types of Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Interdependence and Relationships, Plant Identification and Preservation, Plant Adaptations and Traditional Uses of Plants, Animal Identification, Camera Traps, Animal Adaptations and the IUCN, and End-of-Term Presentations. Club members developed their understanding of ecosystem processes, biodiversity, plant and animal identification, adaptations, and conservation, including the importance of protecting threatened and endangered species. Activities included outdoor observations, plant preservation, research, poster creation, presentations, videos, role-play, discussions, and an educational visit to the National Museum of Guyana, where members observed animal exhibits, identified diurnal and nocturnal animals, examined different types of adaptations, and completed observation worksheets and discussions.

Throughout the month, club members participated in hands-on activities, outdoor observations, demonstrations, discussions, presentations, research, creative projects, and educational visits that encouraged teamwork, critical thinking, and environmental awareness. A total of 237 students participated in Environmental Club activities during July 2026. Through these experiences, club members strengthened their understanding of ecosystems, biodiversity, environmental monitoring, navigation, plant and animal identification, adaptations, and conservation while developing practical skills and a greater appreciation for the environment and wildlife.

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