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On Saturday, June 28, 2025, the EMC Foundation partnered with the Scout Association of Guyana to host a ‘Waste to Wonder’ activity. Hosted at the Scout Association’s headquarters on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown, the indoor, hands-on session brought together over 20 Cub Scouts, aged 7 to 11, for a morning of creativity, collaboration, and environmental learning.

Designed to promote recycling and environmental responsibility, the ‘Waste to Wonder’ activity showed young participants how everyday items such as plastic bottles, cans, newspapers, and CDs that are usually discarded can be repurposed into something useful and meaningful. The session aimed to inspire sustainable habits, encourage creative thinking, and make environmental education fun and interactive.

In preparation for the event, EMC Foundation staff collected recyclable materials, which were then used as the primary tools for the day’s activities. During the session, Cub Scouts were divided into five groups, each guided by a member of the EMC Foundation team. The groups collaborated to transform the collected materials into recycled plant pots, learning along the way about waste reduction, the value of recycling, and how small actions can help protect the environment.

Each group participated in a reflection and presentation segment, where they showcased their creations and shared insights from the experience. This closing activity not only reinforced what they had learned but also encouraged public speaking, teamwork, and a sense of pride in their efforts.

To further promote environmental stewardship, each Cub Scout received carrot seeds and soil for their recycled pots, encouraging them to nurture their creation at home and continue their journey of caring for the environment.

The EMC Foundation was proud to support this activity, which aligns with its core focus on education, environmental awareness, and E-STEM capacity building. The event also represents one of the ways the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the EMC Foundation and the Scout Association of Guyana is being implemented, fostering positive change and environmental consciousness among Guyana’s youth.

Cub Scouts During an Ice Breaker Activity

Cub Scouts Recycling Their Plant Pots

Cub Scouts During the Reflection Session at the End of the Activity

Cub Scouts with EMC Foundation Team Members

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.

EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to collaborate with twenty-one environmental clubs across the coast of Guyana. 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, Tapakuma Lake Primary and Open Doors School.

During June 2025, the primary and secondary environmental clubs focused on Ecosystems and Responsible Waste Management. For the Primary Work Plan, the topics completed were inclusive of Pollution, Air Quality Control, Reusing, Recycling and GPS. Club members watched videos, created unique projects and posters and practised using technological devices, such as the GPS.

For the Secondary Work Plan, the topics completed were Air, Water and Noise Pollution and Waste Audit. Club members watched videos, listened to presentations and engaged in class discussions.

During June 2025, club members demonstrated keen interest and participation in the sessions. They actively engaged in exploring the types of pollution, how to reuse and recycle, how to increase the quality of the air, how to dispose of waste and how to use GPS devices. They contributed to discussions on the types of pollution and how they are caused, ways in which they could reduce and recycle at home and in their community, and how to contribute to a clean environment by disposing of waste correctly. These efforts reflect the club members growing environmental awareness, demonstrating active participation and a strong commitment to sustainable practices within their communities.

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 June 19, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly presented over 1,000 flash drives containing the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook to Mr. Marti DeSouza, Deputy Chief Education Officer (Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development) at the Ministry of Education. This meaningful initiative supports the integration of environmental conservation into Guyana’s school curriculum while promoting the preservation and revitalisation of Indigenous languages.

Each flash drive contains the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook in both English and Arawak. The content is designed to raise awareness about sea turtle conservation among students and communities, while celebrating linguistic and cultural heritage. Inspired by the real-life Turtle Telemetry Program at Shell Beach, Arya Takes a Swim follows the journey of Arya, a green sea turtle. Brought to life through immersive narration by Guyanese voices from St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Wakapau, and Georgetown, and enhanced with rich sound design, the story is crafted to captivate young listeners and their families.

The Ministry of Education will distribute the flash drives to all nursery, primary, and secondary schools across Guyana, ensuring students in every region have access to this engaging environmental education resource.

As part of the handover, Mr. DeSouza also received a special EMC Foundation box containing printed copies of Arya Takes a Swim, its Arawak version – Arya Anuka Aba Chimahi, and the Foundation’s latest publication, Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures.

During the presentation, EMC Foundation Founder and Director, Mr. Shyam Nokta, highlighted the project’s success in connecting children with marine conservation and the importance of storytelling in education. He noted that the translation of Arya Takes a Swim into Arawak expands its accessibility and announced plans to adapt the story into other Indigenous languages across Guyana.

Mr. DeSouza praised the initiative as a beautiful and innovative way of preserving the languages and arousing interest in Indigenous language, and expressed his commitment to supporting the continued expansion of the project.

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 is part of the EMC Foundation’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and foster a collective commitment to marine turtle conservation in Guyana. These collaborations mark another important step in the EMC Foundation’s mission to empower communities through environmental education, cultural preservation, and meaningful partnerships.

Mr. Shyam Nokta Presenting an EMC Foundation Box to Mr. Marti DeSouza

Mr. Marti DeSouza Reviewing ‘Arya Takes a Swim’

Mr. Marti DeSouza with English and Arawak Versions of ‘Arya Takes a Swim’

Mr. Marti DeSouza and the EMC Foundation Team Viewing the ‘Behind the Scenes’ Video on the Audiobook Production

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 Monday, June 16, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly presented British High Commissioner to Guyana, Her Excellency Jane Miller, OBE, with a beautiful collection of giant river otter canvas prints, along with flash drives containing the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook. The presentation was made by EMC Foundation Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh.

The featured images, captured along the Mahaica River and at Karanambu, were originally unveiled during the launch of the Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures storybook and are now displayed at the British High Commission. This vibrant visual collection celebrates Guyana’s iconic giant river otters, a species Her Excellency has seen firsthand having visited the Mahaica River on many occasions.

The collection was made possible through the dedication of several nature enthusiasts and partners, including High Commissioner Jane Miller and Dr. Rob Miller, Indranee Roopsind, the Karanambu Trust, Nathan Chinapen, Deonarine Chand, and the EMC Foundation team.

The EMC Foundation is honoured to continue its meaningful collaboration with the British High Commission through initiatives that promote environmental conservation and public awareness. Notable joint projects include the Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves coffee table book, and the recently launched Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook.

British High Commissioner, H.E. Jane Miller; British High Commission Programme Manager, Kassia De Santos; and EMC Foundation Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh During the Handing Over

Presentation of the ‘Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook’ Flash Drives to High Commissioner Jane Miller

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.

EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to collaborate with twenty-one environmental clubs across the coast of Guyana. 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, Tapakuma Lake Primary and Open Doors School.

During May 2025, the primary and secondary environmental clubs focused on Ecosystems and Responsible Waste Management. For the Primary Work Plan, the topics completed were inclusive of Ecosystems, Composting, Pollution, Water Quality Monitoring, Noise Pollution and Waste Disposal. Club members watched videos, created unique projects, and participated in science experiments and field trips.

For the Secondary Work Plan, the topics completed were Soil Resource & Management, Pollution and Composting. Club members watched videos, listened to presentations and engaged in class discussions.

The EMC Foundation engaged 89 students in the E-STEM program for May 2025. Activities consisted of discussions, presentations, educational videos and creative projects which all aided in fostering environmental awareness and practical learning.

During May 2025, club members demonstrated enthusiastic participation in the topics explored. They actively engaged in learning the types of ecosystems, how to compost, types of pollution and prevention methods, recognising the importance of water quality and the effects of noise pollution. They contributed to discussions on strategies for preventing pollution, how they could practice composting at home and how they could filter water. These efforts highlight their positive attitudes and proactive participation in the environmental club’s initiatives.

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 May 28, 2025, the EMC Foundation unveiled “Ollie the Otter’s Rivers Adventures,” a captivating children’s book, at the Umana Yana in Georgetown. The event, celebrated with prominent personalities and enthusiastic attendees, marked a significant step in promoting giant river otter conservation and education among Guyana’s youth.

The “Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures” book introduces young readers to Ollie, a spirited and curious giant river otter. It was inspired by the vibrant ecosystems and diverse biodiversity of the Mahaica River, and aims to nurture a love for nature and awareness of otter conservation among children and families.

This launch, held in celebration of World Otter Day, brought together a range of speakers who shared their insights and praised the initiative. The Prime Minister of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Hon. Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Anthony Phillips, highlighted the impactful and collective effort behind the book, which aims to support the mission of raising environmental and educational awareness.

The Prime Minister stated, “This storybook being launched today is a vital part of that mission. It brings biodiversity into the classroom, the home, the hearts and minds of our young people—because no strategy can be successful if our citizens are not well informed. We cannot secure our future if our children are not inspired.”

He also commended the EMC Group for their work to date and expressed his anticipation for future publications and more innovative, groundbreaking projects that support Guyana’s mission of environmental conservation and awareness.

Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, reflected on the book’s inception and its focus on the ecological richness of the Mahaica Watershed, as well as the challenges facing giant river otters.

He noted that a collaborative approach is key to tackling many of the threats facing giant river otters and other species, stating, “With the efforts we’re undertaking now with Ollie, another endangered giant, we’re able to bring together partners, communities, researchers, universities, Government agencies, as well as sponsors and donors—so that we can advance otter conservation to the next level.”

Indranee Roopsind, a Guyanese Otter Specialist with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), emphasised the significant role the publication will play in ushering in a new era of awareness and conservation for giant river otters, particularly among children.

She stated, “This collaborative effort, and the incredible work the EMC Foundation is doing, is already making—and will continue to make—a meaningful impact on giant river otter conservation, not just in Guyana but across the region. This book, which features a giant river otter along the Mahaica River, is a powerful conservation tool that blends sound science, local knowledge, and partnerships through storytelling—an effective medium that reaches audiences of all ages.”

Melanie McTurk, Project Coordinator of the Karanambu Trust, which has led giant river otter conservation efforts in the Rupununi for decades and recently partnered with the EMC Foundation,  also spoke at the event. She provided important historical context on the decline of giant river otter populations and the pivotal role Karanambu Trust and Rupununi residents have played in their rehabilitation and reintroduction.

She remarked, “Giant River otters are one of our national treasures. In order to effectively design the interventions needed for their long-term survival, we must work together. We need mechanisms that not only help us understand the challenges but also allow us to find collaborative ways to protect giant river otters, safeguard our communities, and serve our people.”

Following the launch, “Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures” the EMC Foundation will engage the Ministry of Education on having copies of the book available to schools across Guyana. 

EMC Foundation extends its gratitude to all the speakers, attendees, and supporters who contributed to the success of the launch. Special thanks are extended to all partners and collaborators for their support and dedication to otter conservation.

Prime Minister, Hon. Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips delivering Feature Remarks

EMC Foundation Founder and Director, Mr. Shyam Nokta providing brief remarks

Project Coordinator of Karanambu Trust, Melanie McTurk providing remarks

Otter Specialist with IUCN, Indranee Roopsind providing remarks

Mr. Shyam Nokta presenting ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures’ to Officials

Mrs. Malisa Nokta presenting ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures’ to Officials

EMC Foundation Programme Coordinator, Sarah Singh presenting ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures to Special Invitees

Stunning Visuals from the Launch of ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures’

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.

EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to collaborate with nineteen environmental clubs across the coast of Guyana. 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, and Georgetown International Academy.

During April 2025, the primary and secondary environmental clubs focused on Ecosystems and Responsible Waste Management. For the Primary Work Plan, the topics completed were inclusive of Pollution and Air Quality Monitoring. Club members watched videos, created unique projects and played fun games.

The EMC Foundation engaged 28 students in the E-STEM program for April 2025. Activities consisted of discussions, presentations, educational videos and creative projects which all aided in fostering environmental awareness and practical learning.

In April 2025, club members demonstrated strong engagement in the topics. They actively engaged in exploring various types of pollution, understanding prevention methods, and recognising the importance of maintaining air quality. Furthermore, they made valuable contributions to discussions on strategies for preventing pollution and ensuring clean air. These efforts highlight their positive attitudes and proactive participation in the environmental club’s initiatives.

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 April 14, 2025, members of the EMC Foundation team proudly attended in the opening ceremony of the 2025 Wildlife Club Festival, hosted by the Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development in collaboration with the North Rupununi District Development Board.

The event, held under the inspiring theme “Innovate, Preserve, and Protect the Future of Culture and Nature,” aimed to make conservation exciting and accessible. It brought together Wildlife Clubs from across the Rupununi and celebrated their creativity and cultural heritage through a lively banner and costume parade, art competitions, cultural dances, poetry, face painting, competitive games, environmental quizzes, and more.

As part of the opening ceremony, EMC Foundation proudly distributed EMC Foundation Boxes to nineteen Wildlife Clubs. These boxes, filled with educational and creative materials, were presented by our Founder and Director, Mr. Shyam Nokta, alongside Her Excellency Ambassador Nicole D. Theriot (U.S. Embassy Guyana), Her Excellency High Commissioner Jane Miller OBE (UK High Commission in Guyana), and Mr. Spiro Polycandriotis van Duynhoven, Head of Political Section at the Delegation of the European Union in Guyana.

In his remarks, Mr. Nokta emphasised the EMC Foundation’s commitment to building partnerships that strengthen environmental education and awareness. He expressed interest in collaborating further with Wildlife Clubs in the Rupununi and shared a vision for the EMC Foundation hosting its own Environmental Club Festival.

The EMC Foundation is committed to inspiring environmental awareness, strengthening community partnerships, and nurturing the next generation of conservation leaders.

Wildlife Clubs During the Costume and Banner Parade

Wildlife Clubs Showcasing their Costumes

Wildlife Clubs Showcasing their Banners

Mr. Shyam Nokta Presenting EMC Foundation Boxes to Wildlife Clubs

Members of the Diplomatic Community Presenting EMC Foundation Boxes to Wildlife Clubs

EMC Foundation boxes

Wildlife Clubs Displaying their STEM Projects

Wildlife Club Members Participating in the Cotton Spinning Competition

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 22, 2025, the EMC Foundation proudly participated in the Water Village Exhibition and Fair, as well as the Earth Hour 2025 Celebrations, hosted by World Wildlife Fund (WWF) at the Guyana National Park. The event, under the overarching theme of “Environmental Conservation,” aimed to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our planet’s resources. The EMC Foundation encouraged attendees to “Give an Hour for Earth” and take part in a variety of interactive activities that promoted water conservation.

The Foundation engaged with visitors of all ages and backgrounds, offering a fun-filled experience while educating them about the significance of conserving water. One of the event’s highlights was the EMC Foundation’s face painting activity, where attendees could have their faces or hands painted with an animal of their choice. As part of the experience, participants learned interesting facts about wildlife and environmental preservation.

In addition, the EMC Foundation provided coloring and activity pages, sparking creativity in children and adults alike. The interactive question-and-answer games allowed visitors to test their knowledge of environmental topics, with winners receiving EMC Foundation publications as prizes.

This event also provided a valuable opportunity for EMC Foundation members to connect with nature enthusiasts, share insights into the Foundation’s ongoing projects, and inspire collective action for environmental conservation.

Face Painting and Environmental Talks at the Booth

Young Visitors Participating in Colouring Activities at the Booth

Young visitors Participating in Maze and Other Activities at the Booth

Visitors Interacting with EMC Foundation Publications at the Booth

Visitors Interacting with the EMC Foundation Selfie Frame 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.