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The curtain rises once again on one of Guyana’s most cherished cultural showcases—the 32nd Annual Mother and Daughter Pageant—taking centre stage on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the National Cultural Centre, under the enchanting theme: “A Symphony of Love.”

Presented by Supa Stylistics in proud partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Government of Guyana, this year’s production promises a refreshing harmony of tradition and innovation—where elegance, emotion, and entertainment come together in one magical evening.

Once again, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport has collaborated closely with producers to ensure that this highly anticipated event—now an integral part of Guyana’s cultural tapestry—is executed with the world-class entertainment features our nation deserves.

A Night of Fashion, Family & Flawless Vibes

From the glitz of the KFC Red Carpet Experience at 6 PM to the glamour of the main event at 8 PM, audience can expect a full sensory journey. The red carpet is not just a photo op—it’s an event within the event! Attendees will enjoy free food, drinks, ice cream, exclusive product giveaways, live interviews, and more—all included in the ticket price.

Surprises That Strike the Right Note

This year’s edition introduces a special non-competitive showcase of fathers and sons, making the 2025 pageant a true celebration of the entire family unit. Each day this week, featured father-son pairs will be revealed via the pageant’s official platforms—building anticipation for an unforgettable show night.

Big Prizes, Bigger Memories

Every ticket-holder is automatically entered for the grand door prize—a trip to a surprise international destination, announced just before the show. Last year’s winner jetted off to London. Who will win 2025’s ultimate getaway?

Glamour with Purpose

Competing mothers and daughters stand to win a dazzling array of prizes, including local and international experiences and tangible gifts from Guyana’s top brands. But beyond beauty, this event continues to honour resilience, heritage, and love across generations.

Platinum Sponsors: Powering the Pageant’s Magic

This year’s celebration is proudly supported by three platinum sponsors, each bringing their own flair to the pageant experience:

• IGLOO – Title sponsor for the Igloo Junior Category, IGLOO has collaborated with the pageant for over a decade, delivering sweet smiles and even sweeter scoops. As always, expect free ice cream in the lobby courtesy of IGLOO.
• SAB Properties – Title sponsor for the SAB Properties Middle Category, this company has long served corporate Guyana with pristine real estate and is now elevating expectations with two new apartment complexes in Middleton and Ogle, promising luxurious living for modern families.
• KFC – Taking over double duty this year as the title sponsor for both the KFC Senior Category and the Red Carpet Experience, KFC brings splendor and fantasy both on stage and at the event’s glittering red carpet starting at 6 PM.

A Word from the Producer

Dr. Sulan Fung, pageant producer and newly minted Howard University Dental School graduate, shared the reason behind the rescheduled date:

“I graduated on May 10—the usual pageant date. We wanted to celebrate that milestone with family, and so we moved the pageant to the eve of Father’s Day to honour all families.”

[Press Release by Supa Stylistics ]

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In an emphatic address on Monday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali told graduates of the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) to put their new skills and knowledge to good use in Guyana.

 “Guyana needs you, we need your skills, we need your voice, we need your passion, we need you to stay, we need you to lead,” President Ali told the graduates as Guyana is undergoing massive transformation.

At the first graduation ceremony this year being held under the theme “Enhancing the Nation’s Human Capacity,” President Ali applauded the graduates for taking the opportunity available through GOAL to upskill.

The Head of State directed majority of his address to the graduates, acknowledging their sacrifices and celebrated their achievements.

He positioned them as vital agents in shaping a modern, equitable, and globally connected Guyana. This year over 2000 persons are set to graduate with the first 580 were conferred with their master’s degrees on Monday.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

“Today is a proud moment not just for you but for our nation.

“You have done more than complete a course of study, you have vindicated the trust your country placed in you. You have shown that learning remains one of the most powerful forces for personal and national development,” the President said.

GOAL was designed to support those who could not afford to study abroad or take time away from their jobs. The programme brought virtual classrooms into homes across the country, breaking barriers of distance, cost, time, and according to President Ali, even self-doubt.

President Ali added that the programme has changed not only how education is delivered, but who gets to access it.

At the ceremony, he also recognised and applauded the 70 per cent of women who have enrolled in GOAL.

“When we speak about empowering women, this is what it looks like,” the President said as he asked all the female graduates to stand as they, particularly single mothers had to balance jobs, parenting and their education.

 “You stayed the course, and now here you are with your certificate in hand, and your eyes fixed on the future. And what a future it is,” the President said.

He told the graduates that their journey is only just beginning and urged them to be role models and leaders to those around them.

“The responsibility begins today, as the future of Guyana rests in its human capital. Go forward not only as graduates, but as ambassadors of positivity,” the President said.

He encouraged all Guyanese, especially those who have not yet applied to GOAL, to seize the opportunity.

 

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The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has announced its top-performing cane harvesters for the  First Crop of 2025, with Uitvlugt Estate claiming the top three positions across the entire industry. The announcement was made during a simple yet significant ceremony held at the Rose Hall Estate on  Friday, June 6, 2025, where the top twelve harvesters from across GuySuCo’s estates were formally recognised for their outstanding productivity. 

Mr. Leon Seelall of Uitvlugt Estate was named the Most Productive Harvester for First Crop 2025,  delivering an impressive 644.81 tonnes of cane in just 54 days, averaging 11.94 tonnes per day. His colleagues, Mr. Keyoma Pilgrim and Mr. Danier DeChuna, also from Uitvlugt, secured the second and third spots with 622.45 tonnes and 435.82 tonnes, respectively. All three harvesters, through their dedication and consistent performance above the daily average, earned an average day’s pay of $32,000.  This remarkable achievement marks the second consecutive crop in which Uitvlugt Estate has produced top harvesters for the Corporation. 

The Most Productive Cane Harvester Programme is a relatively new initiative introduced in the Second  Crop of 2024. Conceptualized by GuySuCo’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Paul Cheong, the programme was designed to enhance motivation, encourage accountability, and ultimately improve productivity within the harvesting teams. 

“Our aim is to foster a results-driven culture where every individual understands the value of their role and is inspired to give their best,” said CEO Cheong. “This initiative not only boosts morale but also  ensures our employees are recognized for their dedication and hard work.” 

In addition to the Uitvlugt awardees, top harvesters from other estates who were recognized include: 

∙ Albion Estate: Mr. Kumar Deodat, Mr. Vicky Seenarine, and Mr. Mahase Sukhnandan

∙ Blairmont Estate: Mr. Kheran Bissoondyal, Mr. Totaram Sanichara, and Mr. Anthony Lewis

∙ Rose Hall Estate: Mr. Nigel McDonald, Mr. Tavell Lovell, and Mr. Samuel Jhingree 

In his remarks, Mr. Cheong also acknowledged the challenges posed by the ongoing developmental  boom, which has drawn many skilled workers to other sectors. “GuySuCo remains steadfast in its  commitment to regaining and retaining talent through competitive compensation and recognition-based  programmes such as this one,” he said. “Our harvesters are the true heart of GuySuCo- without them,  there is no sugar. We are determined to ensure they always feel valued.” 

The Guyana Sugar Corporation extends sincere appreciation to all its harvesters for their commitment and hard work during the First Crop. The Corporation remains optimistic about the continued impact of this programme in boosting industry morale and productivity as it charts a course toward greater sustainability and growth (GuySuCo press release) 

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Nicholas Narine, a 28-year-old labourer of Agricola, East Bank Demerara, died on Monday after he was allegedly shot by 27-year-old Rafael Bollers.

Police Headquarters said the incident occurred around 08:15 hrs at Titus Street, Agricola.

Investigations so far revealed that Narine and the suspect are known to each other. On the date and time mentioned, Narine was in the company of others, cleaning a drain at Titus Street, east of the suspect’s yard, where there is a concrete fence. At the time, the suspect was armed with a handgun and discharged several rounds in Narine’s direction.

The victim fell to the ground, helpless. The suspect then ran out of the yard and made good his escape in a southern direction, with the firearm. The victim was taken to the Diamond Hospital, where he was seen and examined by a Doctor, who pronounced him dead.

The victim received three gunshots to his right side abdomen (one to his back and one to his right upper hand).

The scene was processed by detectives, and one 9mm spent shell was found at the scene. Several persons were questioned, and statements were taken. The body was escorted to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting an autopsy.

Efforts are being made by Police to locate the suspect as investigations continue.

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Rondell Clarke, a 29-year-old construction worker from Foulis, East Coast Demerara, was allegedly murdered on Sunday.

Police Headquarters stated that the incident occurred at Second Street, Foulis, sometime between 19:30 and 19:45 hours. The suspect, a 25-year-old male security officer employed with a private security service, was arrested and is assisting with the investigations. The Police also confiscated his firearm.

The security officer allegedly shot Clarke.

Clarke was later picked up in a conscious state by Police ranks and escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for medical attention.

Upon arrival, he was admitted to the critical surgical bay. However, at approximately 20:20 hrs Sunday, he was pronounced dead. His body was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary, where it was placed into storage pending a post-mortem examination.

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More than 40,000 residents along the East Bank corridor will now have access to high-quality, reliable healthcare with the official opening of the state-of-the-art Diamond Regional Hospital.

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, flanked by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, Cabinet ministers, health officials and members of the public, commissioned the facility on Sunday evening.

The hospital, built to meet Chinese, British, and American medical standards, offers round-the-clock emergency care, surgeries, maternity and neonatal services, and outpatient clinics. With 75 inpatient beds, three operating theatres, and advanced diagnostic tools like CT scanners, digital X-ray, and ultrasound, it promises to raise the bar for public health delivery in Guyana.

“This is not just about a building,” President Ali told the crowd. “It’s about dignity, equity, and life itself. We are investing in people.”

He stressed that the services offered will not depend on one’s income or social standing. “Everyone must have a minimum standard of care—regardless of where they live,” the President added.

The Diamond facility was built in collaboration with China’s Sinopharm International and is part of a broader $37.2 billion national health infrastructure project, which includes new hospitals in Lima, De Kinderen, Enmore, Bath, and Skeldon.

“These hospitals are not stand-alone projects,” President Ali said. “They’re part of a connected, future-ready health system.”

The government’s goal is not only to improve access but also to standardise care across all regions. From matching equipment to consistent medical protocols, the aim is to provide seamless and sustainable healthcare nationwide.

Complementing these upgrades is a massive investment in training, with over 6,000 nurses expected to be trained in the next five years. New nursing schools have already opened in Regions Two, Six, and 10.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said the former Diamond hospital, in operation for 18 years, could no longer meet demand.

“In 2020, we made some upgrades and converted it into a ‘smart hospital’, but the needs kept growing,” he said. “This new facility ensures people on the East Bank have access to the best care.”

The launch was also attended by Chinese Ambassador Yang Yang, Sinopharm Vice President Yan Hailu, and Health Ministry Permanent Secretary Malcolm Watkins.

Beyond the coast, hospitals are also being built in Moruca, Kamarang, Kato, and Lethem, alongside a Paediatric and Maternal Hospital at Ogle and a modern facility in New Amsterdam. Major upgrades are underway at existing hospitals in Bartica, Linden, and West Demerara.

President Ali reminded attendees that these projects were promised in the PPP/C’s 2020-2025 manifesto, which outlined a plan for a world-class, inclusive health system. Despite delays caused by COVID-19, the government has already upgraded more than 400 health facilities, including 26 health centres.

With investments also being made in electronic health records, AI diagnostics, and robotic surgery, Guyana is on track to become a regional health hub.

“By 2028, we’ll have 12 new hospitals up and running,” the President affirmed. “We’re building a system that will serve not just Guyanese—but the wider Caribbean.”

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After a scintillating final of the ExxonMobil Guyana Future Warriors tapeball blast Demerara leg on Sunday, Grove Primary emerged new champions, beating 2024 winners, Stella Maris Primary by six wickets.

In the main event at the National Stadium, Providene, the East Bank Demerara-based Grove Primary won the toss and inserted the city side, Stella Maris Primary.

Stella Maris were contained to 47-2 after their eight-over allotment expired, but Grove Primary survived an early scare to eventually reach 49-4 with 10 balls to spare.

Wayne Green provided a late impetus for Grove, hitting two fours and a six during his top score of 17 not out while getting support from Roles Melville who made 12 from six balls.

Titus Allicock chipped in with nine not out to see his side over the line.

Eyeon Glasgow was the pick of the bowlers for Stella Maris, taking 2-14 after removing Sherwin Bunbury and Terrence Frank with three deliveries.

Earlier, Stella Maris were gifted 26 extras as Glasgow top scored with 12 not out from 20 balls.

The tournament’s Most Valuable Player, Roles Melville of Grove Primary collects his prize from ExxonMobil Guyana’s Suzie DeAbreu

Melville ended as the leg’s Most Valuable Player and leading wicket taker with nine scalps to his name, while Stella Maris’ Clyde Jacobs finished as the leg’s leading run getter with 88, scoring the tournament’s lone half-century.

In the semi-finals, Stella Maris opened the day with a victory over West Ruimveldt Primary in a one sided nine-wicket win.

Stella Maris won the toss and inserted West Ruimveldt Primary who made 67-3 after Steven Orie clubbed four boundaries in his innings of 20 not out.

Support came from Seon Harsham (13) and Eli Henry (12 not out).

Stella Maris then raced to 69-1 in five overs as Jacobs smashed five fours and a six on his way to a top score of 35 not out. Aaron Perkins belted two sixes in his 12-run cameo.

In the second semi-final, Grove Primary benefitted from three dropped catches by St. Pius to advance with a six-wicket victory.

Grove also won the toss and elected to field where they contained St. Pius to 40-4 as no batsman reached double figures and extras accounted for 22.

Melville continued his impressive form with the ball, taking 2-8.

Bowled! Part of the action on the final day at the National Stadium, Providence

In the chase, Joshua Ramotar, who opened the batting, steered his side to victory with a composed 14-ball 24 not out.

His innings featured three fours and one six.

Kevon Pile looked to secure St. Pius’ spot in the final, taking 3-10, but it ultimately came down to dropped catches saw them losing the match.

The tournament now heads to Berbice where 16 teams will compete this weekend (June 14-15).

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