News

On October 1, 2025, the EMC Foundation, with support from the ExxonMobil Foundation, visited La Bonne Intention (LBI) Secondary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club, meeting both the Club Coordinator and enthusiastic student members. The session welcomed 19 students from Forms 1 to 4, alongside three teachers, with the goal of introducing the EMC Foundation, highlighting the importance of Environmental Clubs, and outlining the work plan for the first term.

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

Sarah provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about environmental conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about marine turtles, mangroves, and the Foundation’s various field tours. To deepen their engagement, the team presented Turtle Telemetry Videos, showcasing how marine turtles are tagged and protected, which fascinated the students and inspired them to consider how they can actively contribute to protecting Guyana’s biodiversity.

Students 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. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities, reflecting the success of the session in achieving its objectives, which were to spark interest in the E-STEM program and motivate active environmental participation.

Ms. Sarah Singh Leading the Environmental Club Initiation Visit

Environmental Club Members engaging in our “Eco-Bingo” Activity

Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation Members

Club Members Interacting 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.

The EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to strengthen environmental education and awareness by collaborating with twenty-seven environmental clubs across Guyana. The E-STEM Program is now being supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation. These include 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, Tapakuma Lake Primary, Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary,  Mashabo Primary School, Rosignol Primary School, La Bonne Intention Secondary, and Open Doors School.

During September 2025, the Foundation expanded its reach by partnering with four additional clubs. These are La Bonne Intention Secondary School, Rosignol Primary School, Mashabo Primary School, and Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary Schools, furthering its mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education.

For the Primary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan, students explored Ecosystems, Food Chains, and Animal Adaptations, learning about the importance of conservation, how energy flows through food chains, and how animals adapt to their habitats. Under the ‘Responsible Waste Management’ theme, students studied Air Quality Monitoring and Recycling, discovering ways to reuse materials and monitor pollution levels. Activities included poster and diorama creation, class discussions, and hands-on demonstrations that encouraged creativity and environmental responsibility.

At the Secondary level, the focus was on Ecosystem Components and Interactions, Ecosystem Functions and Nutrient Cycles, and Types of Ecosystems. Club members examined how biotic and abiotic factors interact, studied nutrient cycles like carbon and nitrogen, and identified terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Sessions featured interactive videos, group discussions, and poster-making to reinforce learning.

Throughout the month, over 180 students participated in the program, engaging in presentations, discussions, and creative projects that fostered both curiosity and practical understanding of the environment. These experiences not only deepened students’ scientific understanding but also inspired them to think critically about their role in protecting the planet. Students demonstrated awareness of key issues such as pollution prevention, composting, and water quality, while discussing ways they could 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 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 29, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly hosted our fifth Community Listening Session for the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project in the scenic Indigenous Village of Wakapoa, located in Region 2.

This exciting engagement brought together residents of all ages to enjoy Arya Takes a Swim in an immersive and meaningful way. The attendees eagerly listened to both the English and Arawak versions of the story, viewed exclusive behind-the-scenes footage on the making of the audiobook, and watched a special video snippet of the Lokono-language version.

The gathering was warmly embraced by the community and attended by the Acting Head teacher of the Primary School, Ms. Luraine Cornelius, teachers, students, community service officers, village elders and other residents.

The response was enthusiastic and heartfelt, with a few attendees expressing their excitement at hearing the Arawak language in such a creative, modern presentation. The community was also filled with pride upon seeing one of their residents, Ms. Samantha Thomas, playing a pivotal role in the development of the audio series and audiobook. The session also helped raise local awareness about sea turtle conservation and the importance of safeguarding Guyana’s diverse wildlife and habitats.

Ms. Sarah Singh, EMC Foundation’s Programme Coordinator, chaired the listening session and emphasised that Arya Takes a Swim bears an overarching message on local conservation efforts to protect the four endangered turtle species in Guyana. She explained that the story was inspired by the turtle telemetry programme conducted by Environmental Management Consultants (EMC) Inc. along the Shell Beach Protected Area. She also explained that the main character was named after Her Excellency Mrs. Arya Ali, First Lady of Guyana, to honour her dedicated advocacy for animal welfare and human rights.

Ms. Singh also highlighted that the project honours Indigenous communities and contributes to the preservation of their languages. “These communities have lived in harmony with the environment for generations, carrying deep knowledge of the land, rivers, and wildlife. However, many of these cultural traditions and languages are under threat, as fewer people are learning and speaking their Indigenous languages today.”

Acting Headmistress of the Wakapoa Primary School, Ms. Luraine Cornelius, also delivered brief remarks during the session. She extended her gratitude to the EMC Foundation for the enjoyable listening event and stressed the importance of learning one’s Native language along with staying informed on turtle conservation. “We have some EMC Foundation publications in our library which people can read and some are about Shell Beach, which is not too far from here. It was a good and cheerful session, and we got to learn about the Arawak Language and turtles.”

At the end of the session, attendees enjoyed a wonderful Turtle Conservation Exhibition, an EMC Foundation Corner which displayed key publications, and engaging turtle-themed children’s activities which included word search, crossword and colouring pages.

The Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project was implemented by the EMC Foundation with support from the Blue Social Challenge Fund Pilot, part of the UK’s Sustainable Blue Economy Programme. It forms an important part of the EMC Foundation’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and foster a collective commitment to marine turtle conservation in Guyana.

Through interactive events like this, the EMC Foundation continues to bring together conservation, culture, and community. By blending storytelling, science, and Indigenous voices, the Foundation remains committed to protecting Guyana’s biodiversity while celebrating its rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

Attendees Viewing the Videos During the Programme

Ms. Sarah Singh Delivering Remarks During the Session

Ms. Luraine Cornelius Delivering Remarks During the Session

Attendees Interacting with the Turtle Conservation Exhibition

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation Corner

Attendees Completing Turtle-Themed Activity Sheets

Attendees Engaging with the Turtle Telemetry 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 August 22, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly hosted the fourth Community Listening Session for the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project in the scenic Indigenous community of Warapoka Village, nestled along the Waini River in Region 1.

This vibrant event brought together both children and adults to experience Arya Takes a Swim in an immersive and meaningful way. Attendees enjoyed both the English and Arawak (Lokono) versions of the story, viewed behind-the-scenes footage on the production of the audiobook, and watched a special video snippet of the Lokono-language version.

The gathering of close to 70 people warmly embraced the event, and it was attended by Toshao of Warapoka, Mr. Jaremy Boyal, along with Community Service Officers, village councillors, elders, teachers, environmental club coordinators, students, and other residents. The response was enthusiastic and heartfelt, with many participants expressing their excitement at hearing the Lokono language brought to life in such a modern and creative form. The session also helped raise local awareness about sea turtle conservation and the importance of protecting Guyana’s extraordinary wildlife and ecosystems.

The United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Guyana, H.E. Mrs. Jane Miller, OBE and the British High Commission’s Programme Manager, Kassia De Santos, also attended this listening session. The Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project is being implemented by the EMC Foundation with support from the Blue Social Challenge Fund Pilot, part of the UK’s Sustainable Blue Economy Programme.

Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, delivered remarks during the session, highlighting that Arya Takes a Swim carries a broader conservation message rooted in years of work to safeguard Guyana’s four sea turtle species. She explained that the story was inspired by turtle telemetry research conducted by Environmental Management Consultants Inc. (EMC) along the Shell Beach Protected Area, and that the main character’s name honours Her Excellency Mrs. Arya Ali, First Lady of Guyana, a committed advocate for both animal welfare and human rights.

Sarah also emphasised that the project honours Indigenous communities and helps preserve their languages. “These communities have lived in harmony with the environment for generations, carrying deep knowledge of the land, rivers, and wildlife. However, many of these cultural traditions and languages are under threat, as fewer people are learning and speaking their Indigenous languages today.”

Toshao of Warapoka, Mr. Jaremy Boyal, who was once a part of the turtle conservation efforts at the Shell Beach Protected Area, also delivered remarks during the Community Listening Session. He emphasised the value of integrating Indigenous languages into conservation education by working with organisations such as the EMC Foundation. He said, “I would like to thank the EMC Group for working with Warapoka Village. This partnership has been a good one, and we have seen progress. Children have become excited. The school, teachers, environmental club coordinators, and head teachers have played a very important role in keeping the children engaged and occupied. With this Arya Takes a Swim activity, we had a very positive engagement, and we were happy to have the UK High Commissioner here with us.”

UK High Commissioner to Guyana, H.E. Jane Miller also shared remarks and expressed her happiness in supporting initiatives like the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook while highlighting the importance of protecting the natural environment. She noted, “There are many reasons why preserving the world’s nature, preserving the environment, is important. It’s important for our climate, our food, our medicine and other things like Tourism. In many parts of the world, preserving biodiversity creates many jobs as well because people come as tourists.”

In a special moment during the event, Toshao Jaremy Boyal presented Mrs. Jane Miller and Ms. Sarah Singh with a copy of their Warapoka Village Book. This gesture was kindly returned by High Commissioner Miller, who presented the village with a token of her appreciation. These gestures reflected the hospitality and appreciation of the residents of Warapoka.

The session extended beyond storytelling, featuring a lively Turtle Conservation Exhibition, an EMC Foundation Corner showcasing the organisation’s publications, and fun turtle-themed activities and colouring pages for children.

Through interactive events like this, the EMC Foundation continues to connect conservation, culture, and community. By blending storytelling, science, and Indigenous voices, the Foundation reaffirms its commitment to protecting Guyana’s biodiversity while celebrating its rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

Attendees Viewing the Videos During the Programme

Sarah Singh Hosting the Listening Session

Toshao Jaremy Boyal Providing Brief Remarks

High Commissioner Jane Miller Providing Brief Remarks

Exchange of Tokens of Appreciation between Toshao Jaremy Boyal, High Commissioner Jane Miller and Sarah Singh

Attendees Interacting with the Turtle Conservation Exhibition

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation Corner

Attendees Completing Turtle-Themed Colouring and Activity Sheets

Attendees Engaging with the Turtle Telemetry 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 August 12, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly hosted the third Community Listening Session for the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project in the culturally rich village of Moraikobai, nestled along the Mahaicony River in Region 5.

This engaging event brought together residents of all ages to enjoy Arya Takes a Swim in an immersive and meaningful way. Attendees listened to both the English and Arawak versions of the story, viewed exclusive behind-the-scenes footage on the making of the audiobook, and watched a special video snippet of the Arawak-language version.

The gathering was warmly embraced by the community and attended by Toshao of Moraikobai, Mr. Derrick John, Community Service Officers, village councillors, elders, teachers, students, and other residents.

The response was enthusiastic and heartfelt, with many expressing their excitement at hearing the Arawak language in such a creative, modern presentation. The session also helped raise local awareness about sea turtle conservation and the importance of safeguarding Guyana’s diverse wildlife and habitats.

Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, delivered remarks during the session, noting that Arya Takes a Swim carries a broader conservation message built on years of work to protect Guyana’s four sea turtle species. She explained that the story draws from turtle telemetry research conducted by Environmental Management Consultants Inc. (EMC) along the Shell Beach Protected Area, and that the main character’s name honours Her Excellency Mrs. Arya Ali, First Lady of Guyana, who is a dedicated advocate for both animal welfare and human rights.

Sarah also highlighted that the project honours Indigenous communities and helps preserve their languages. “Around the Shell Beach Protected Area, and in many of the Indigenous communities the EMC Foundation works with, the majority of residents belong to the Lokono Nation. For this reason, Lokono was chosen as the Indigenous language to be featured in this project. By producing Arya Takes a Swim in Lokono, this initiative contributes to wider efforts of cultural revitalisation, helping to preserve and promote Indigenous identity, pride, and storytelling for future generations.”

Toshao of Moraikobai and Chairman of the National Toshaos Council, Mr. Derrick John, also delivered remarks during the Community Listening Session and noted that this project will have far-reaching positive effects in his community.

“I think that this initiative will help Indigenous people, especially here in Moraikobai, to see the importance of our environment and how we can learn to protect it and also the importance of biodiversity on a wider scale. And I also feel so honoured that we could have a project that has integrated the indigenous language, and this gives us urgency to see our language as it is now and see that there is hope for revival.”

In a special moment during the session, Ms. Sarah Singh presented Toshao Derrick John with a copy of Arya Takes a Swim. This gesture symbolised the EMC Foundation’s commitment to sharing knowledge and resources directly with Indigenous leaders and communities, ensuring that conservation stories like Arya’s continue to inspire and educate at the village level.

The event went beyond storytelling, featuring an engaging Turtle Conservation Exhibition, an EMC Foundation Corner displaying the organisation’s key publications, and fun turtle-themed activities and colouring pages for children.

Through interactive events like this, the EMC Foundation continues to bring together conservation, culture, and community. By blending storytelling, science, and Indigenous voices, the Foundation remains committed to protecting Guyana’s biodiversity while celebrating its rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

Attendees Viewing the Videos During the Programme

Ms. Sarah Singh Hosting the Listening Session

Toshao of Moraikobai, Mr. Derrick John, Providing Remarks

Ms. Sarah Singh Presenting a Copy of Arya Takes a Swim to Toshao Derrick John

Attendees Interacting with the Turtle Conservation Exhibition

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation Corner

Attendees Completing Turtle-Themed Colouring and Activity Sheets

Attendees Engaging with the Turtle Telemetry 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 Wednesday, July 30, 2025, the EMC Foundation and the Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), officially formalising a partnership aimed at advancing environmental awareness and facilitating knowledge sharing with a focus on youths in Bartica and the Lower Essequibo Region.

The MoU was signed by Ms. Sarah Singh, EMC Foundation’s Program Coordinator, and Ms. Ailsa Henderson, Sophia Point’s Centre Director, and witnessed by Dr. Gyanpriya Maharaj and Mr. René Edwards, trustees of the Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre. Also present were Rt. Honourable David Lammy, Founder of the Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre and United Kingdom Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, and the Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta.  

This partnership marks a significant step forward in advancing environmental awareness and youth empowerment and brings together two organisations that have operations and activities in the Lower Essequibo River focused on rainforest awareness, research and conservation action, working with local communities and youths.

About the EMC Foundation

EMC Foundation was established by 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 that encourage a greater understanding of the environment, creating a network to connect like-minded people, and providing opportunities to experience Guyana’s rich natural environment.

For more information, please visit https://www.emcfoundation.gy 

About the Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre

The Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre is committed to supporting the transformation of research and conservation in Guyana’s rainforests. The organisation supports this mission by conserving the Sophia Point site, establishing research facilities, and fostering local and global dialogue on ecosystem integrity, climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable resource use. With a permanent, accessible Field Research Centre on the East Bank of the Essequibo River, Sophia Point serves as a low-cost, high-impact hub for equitable, world-leading science.

For more information, please visit https://www.sophiapoint.com/

Ms. Sarah Singh, EMC Foundation’s Program Coordinator, and Ms. Ailsa Henderson, Sophia Point’s Centre Director, Signing the MOU

Rt. Honourable David Lammy and Mr. Shyam Nokta During a Discussion at the MOU Signing

EMC Foundation and Sophia Point Representatives Present for the MOU Signing (Back Row, From Left: Mr. René Edwards, Mr. Shyam Nokta, Rt. Honourable David Lammy; Front Row, From Left: Ms. Ailsa Henderson, Dr. Gyanpriya Maharaj, Ms. Sarah Singh)

---

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 2, 2025, the EMC Foundation had the distinct honour of engaging with internationally acclaimed recording artist, Mr. Maxi Priest, during his visit to St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), the only Indigenous community found in region 4: Demerara-Mahaica.

The visit followed the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook Community Listening Session at the Village Benab, where the EMC Foundation team supported the community in welcoming Mr. Maxi Priest and showcasing the rich culture of St. Cuthbert’s Mission.

As part of the engagement, EMC Foundation Program Coordinator, Ms. Sarah Singh, warmly welcomed Mr. Maxi Priest and presented the EMC Foundation publications, ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures,’ and ‘Hidden Gems of the Mahaica River,’ along with a handcrafted giant river otter balata figurine. At the time, the artist was exploring Guyana’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, immersing himself in the country’s natural beauty.

During the short programme, Mr. Maxi Priest, a British artist with Jamaican ancestry, expressed his deep appreciation for Guyana’s warm hospitality and captivating scenery, while emphasising the importance of preserving the environment. He also autographed a copy of the EMC Foundation coffee table book, ‘Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves,’ a gesture that was greatly appreciated and will be treasured.

Prior to this engagement, the British High Commissioner to Guyana, H.E. Jane Miller, OBE, and British High Commission Programme Manager, Ms. Kassia De Santos, had presented Mr. Maxi Priest with a copy of the ‘Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves’ coffee table book. The British High Commission is a valued partner of the EMC Foundation, collaborating on impactful initiatives such as The Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves and Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook projects through the Blue Social Challenge Fund Pilot, a component of the United Kingdom Government’s Sustainable Blue Economy Programme.

Engagements like these reflect the EMC Foundation’s mission of raising environmental awareness among Guyana’s youth and wider audiences. They also embody the Foundation’s aim, Experience, Connect, and Act, inspiring people to discover the wonders of the natural environment, form meaningful connections with it, and take action to protect it for future generations.

British High Commissioner, HE Jane Miller, Presenting the Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves Publication to Mr. Maxi Priest

Ms. Sarah Singh Presenting the EMC Foundation Publications to Mr. Maxi Priest

Mr. Maxi Priest Autographing a Copy of the Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves Coffee Table Book

Mr. Maxi Priest Providing Brief Remarks During the Engagement

The Pakuri Cultural Group Performing an Indigenous Dance During the Engagement

---

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 2, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly hosted the second Community Listening Session for the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project in the culturally rich village of St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), located in the Mahaica region.

This special event brought together residents of all ages to experience Arya Takes a Swim in an immersive and meaningful way. Attendees listened to both the English and Arawak versions of the story, viewed exclusive behind-the-scenes footage on the making of the audiobook, and enjoyed a special video snippet of the Arawak-language version.

The event was warmly welcomed by the community and attended by Toshao Mr. Alvoro Simon, the St. Cuthbert’s Secondary Environmental Club Coordinator, Ms. Michelle Schuman, Village Elder and Previous Toshao, Mr. Leeland Clenkian, teachers, students and other village representatives.

The response from the community was enthusiastic and deeply emotional. St. Cuthbert’s Mission is one of the many villages where Arawak is spoken, and for many, hearing the Arawak language in a creative, modern format was both exciting and inspiring. The session also strengthened local awareness about sea turtle conservation and the importance of protecting local wildlife and ecosystems.

Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, delivered remarks during the session, highlighting that the Arya Takes a Swim story is a broader conservation message that reflects years of conservation work aimed at protecting Guyana’s four sea turtle species.

She explained that the story draws from turtle telemetry activities conducted by Environmental Management Consultants Inc. (EMC) along the Shell Beach Protected Area, and that the main character’s name honours Her Excellency Mrs. Arya Ali, First Lady of Guyana, who is a strong advocate for both animal welfare and human rights.

Sarah also noted that this project honours Indigenous communities and helps to preserve their language. “These communities have lived in harmony with the environment for generations, carrying deep knowledge of the land, rivers, and wildlife. However, many of these cultural traditions and languages are under threat, as fewer people are learning and speaking their Indigenous languages today.”

Also providing remarks was the Toshao of St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Mr. Alvoro Simon, who commended the work that the EMC Group has been doing in the community for the past few years. These include research, its E-STEM Program with environmental clubs, environmental monitoring, support for livelihood projects, educational publications, and a variety of innovative outreach initiatives.

He noted, “We’ve been very grateful, the club would know Sarah and the team here as they come here often and are very knowledgeable. They’re very insightful into the stuff that they do here in the village. And we trust them. At our end, it is exactly what we need right now. As our country, as our world, for a matter of fact, it becomes more modern and much more sophisticated and much more technological, we need to conserve what we have here”.

Mr. Simon also explained how his community has been influenced by other coastal communities, and with this, fewer residents are speaking their native tongue, Arawak or Lokono. To this end, he announced that they will be launching a new educational programme, in which the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project played a major role.

He proudly stated, “As of the new term, we will be creating a programme where we will be teaching the Arawak language in the schools. So, as you guys will return to school in September, we’ll start formulating a plan where we can teach it in schools.  And, of course, as we have seen from this and our experimental experience with this project, your children can definitely learn faster than some adults.”

The event extended beyond just listening. It featured an engaging Turtle Conservation Exhibition, and EMC Foundation Corner showcasing the organisation’s key publications, and fun turtle-themed activity and colouring pages for children.

Through interactive events like this, the EMC Foundation continues to bridge the gap between conservation, culture, and community. By blending storytelling, science, and Indigenous voices, the Foundation remains committed to protecting Guyana’s biodiversity while celebrating its rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

Attendees Viewing the Videos During the Programme

Ms. Sarah Singh Hosting the Listening Session

Toshao Alvoro Simon Providing Remarks During the Listening Session

Attendees Interacting with the Turtle Conservation Exhibition

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation Corner

EMC Foundation Team Members Interacting with the Attendees on Marine Turtle Conservation

Attendees Completing Turtle-Themed Colouring and Activity Sheets

Attendees Engaging with the Turtle Telemetry 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.

As part of the inaugural Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly hosted an early morning educational tour along the scenic Mahaica River on July 25, 2025. Supported by ExxonMobil Guyana, the experience brought to life the region’s rich biodiversity and emphasised the critical importance of wildlife conservation and sustainable development.

Approximately 40 international delegates joined the tour, which offered up-close views of some of Guyana’s iconic species, including the Canje pheasant (Hoatzin), red howler monkeys, great egrets, and many more. The river provided the perfect backdrop for immersive learning and connection with nature.

Following the tour, delegates gathered for a brief but engaging programme highlighting the conservation efforts underway by the EMC Group in and around the Mahaica Watershed. In his welcome remarks, Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, shared the Foundation’s vision for the area, stating, “The Mahaica Watershed is a truly unique ecosystem, home to many of Guyana’s iconic species. Recognising its high biodiversity value, the EMC Foundation has been working with communities and stakeholders to support the protection and sustainable management of this area.”

Mr. Nokta further outlined the Foundation’s ongoing work through research, its E-STEM Programme with schools, environmental monitoring, support for livelihood projects, educational publications, and a variety of innovative outreach initiatives.

Adding a community perspective, Mr. Alvoro Simon, Toshao of St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), addressed the gathering and shared how the EMC Foundation has been supporting his community, not only in environmental protection but also in preserving their language and culture.

The morning concluded with cultural enrichment through a captivating performance by Mr. Ovid Williams, a renowned Guyanese storyteller and musician, who spotlighted Indigenous languages and heritage. In another heartwarming moment, members of the Little Biaboo Primary Environmental Club presented an impactful poem about the Mahaica River, celebrating its diverse flora and fauna.

Each participant left with meaningful tokens, a collection of EMC Foundation’s publications, including ‘Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves’, ‘Hidden Gems of the Mahaica River’, and the children’s storybook ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures,’ helping them remember the sights, sounds, and stories of the Mahaica.

The Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit, held from July 23–25, 2025, brought together global leaders, scientists, Indigenous representatives, innovators, and environmental advocates in a landmark effort to advance biodiversity protection. The Mahaica River Tour, hosted by the EMC Foundation, perfectly complemented the Summit by showcasing Guyana’s ecological richness and the importance of protecting these vital landscapes for future generations.

Delegates Arriving at Little Biaboo for the Mahaica River Tour

Delegates Departing for the Tour of the Mahaica River

Delegates During the Tour of the Mahaica River

Biodiversity Observed During the Mahaica River Tour

Delegates During the Mahaica River Tour Programme

Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta Providing Brief Remarks

Toshoa of St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Mr. Alvoro Simon Providing Brief Remarks

Mr. Ovid Williams Delivering a Cultural Performance

The Little Biaboo Environmental Club Delivering a Poem on the Mahaica Watershed

Delegates receiving their EMC Foundation Information Boxes

---

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 July 17, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly hosted the first Community Listening Session for the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook project in the vibrant village of Saxacalli, located along the Essequibo River.

This milestone event brought together both children and adults to experience the story in a new and immersive way. Attendees listened to both the English and Arawak versions of Arya Takes a Swim, viewed behind-the-scenes videos on the making of the project, and were treated to a special video snippet of the audiobook in Arawak. The event was also attended by Toshao Ms. Helen Williams, Environmental Club Coordinator Ms. Shanice Wilson, and other teachers from the village. Ms. Helen expressed her gratitude to the EMC Foundation for hosting the activity in the community.

The response from the community was enthusiastic and heartfelt. Many attendees expressed their excitement at hearing the Arawak language for the first time, while also gaining a deeper appreciation for sea turtle conservation efforts in Guyana.

The activity also provided a valuable opportunity for villagers to share their knowledge and experiences related to both the Arawak language and marine turtle conservation. Some residents recalled past sightings of turtles near Saxacalli, and a few shared that they had even rescued and released turtles that had come ashore in the area. These personal stories added a meaningful layer to the session, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in conservation and cultural preservation.

During the event, Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, shared insights into the project’s purpose and impact. “Arya Takes a Swim is more than just a children’s story; it represents decades of work to protect and conserve the four species of sea turtles found in Guyana,” Sarah noted.

She explained that the story was inspired by turtle telemetry exercises conducted by Environmental Management Consultants Inc. (EMC) along the Shell Beach Protected Area, and that the main character’s name was chosen in honour of Her Excellency Mrs. Arya Ali, First Lady of Guyana, a passionate advocate for animal and human rights.

Sarah also emphasised the project’s cultural significance, particularly its contribution to language preservation. “With the audiobook translated into Arawak, one of Guyana’s nine Indigenous languages, this project supports efforts to revitalise a language that is at risk of fading,” Sarah added.

The event offered more than just listening. It was a fully educational and interactive experience. Attendees explored the Turtle Conservation Exhibition, visited the EMC Foundation Corner featuring the organisation’s publications, and enjoyed fun, turtle-themed colouring and activity pages designed especially for younger participants.

Through these sessions, the EMC Foundation aims to raise awareness about sea turtle conservation while embracing and promoting Indigenous languages and heritage. By combining storytelling, science, and community voices, the Foundation continues to foster meaningful connections between people and the environment, ensuring that conservation and cultural preservation go hand in hand for future generations.

Attendees Viewing the Videos During the Programme

Ms. Sarah Singh Hosting the Listening Session

Attendees Interacting with the Turtle Conservation Exhibition

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation Corner

EMC Foundation Team Members Interacting with the Attendees on Marine Turtle Conservation

Attendees Completing Turtle-Themed Colouring and Activity Sheets

Attendees Engaging with the Turtle Telemetry Selfie Frame and EMC Foundation Tokens

---

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.