Designers and performers from across Guyana were celebrated during an award ceremony and concert at Castellani House on Saturday evening for bringing colour and cultural pride to this year’s Mashramani celebrations.
The celebrations featured more than 20 events within two-weeks, demonstrating the ministry’s dedication to coordinating a memorable Mashramani.
During the prize-giving ceremony, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, said “I will challenge anybody anywhere to put together a team that can successfully deliver 20 events in that time to such a high standard.”
He explained that the government has implemented a new system, which helped boost the quality of the displays seen at the road parade last month.
The government released funds earlier and engaged designers months ahead of time to allow creatives to have more time to properly curate their pieces.
More than $200 million was invested in Mashramani floats alone, enabling ministries and designers to deliver more elaborate displays for the parade.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs, commended the organisers and creatives for their dedication to making the celebrations a success.
He noted that Mashramani continues to unite communities across the country, with participation ranging from children to veteran designers and performers.
“This is one of the few national events that spans right across the entire country, showcasing our culture and giving our creatives a space to shine,” he added.
Minister Jacobs also encouraged greater collaboration with the private sector to further develop the celebration and strengthen opportunities in the creative economy.