The World Trade Centre Georgetown is preparing to host a special Diamond Independence Jubilee celebration on Friday, May 29, bringing together business leaders, diplomats, cultural figures and rum enthusiasts for an evening celebrating one of Guyana’s most iconic industries.
Held under the theme “The Story of Rum in Guyana,” the cocktail mixer will showcase the remarkable journey of Guyana’s rum and distillery sector, tracing its development from the sugar plantations of colonial British Guiana to its emergence as a globally recognised symbol of Guyanese excellence and national pride.
According to organisers, the event will feature an engaging presentation exploring the early foundations of the rum industry before independence and its transformation in the decades that followed, driven by innovation, advanced blending techniques, international expansion, diversification and strong global marketing success.
The programme will also highlight the importance of Guyanese ownership in the industry’s development, noting that the distillery sector has become one of the country’s strongest examples of how locally controlled enterprises can grow into internationally respected brands.
Guests will hear from Sharon Sue-Hang Baksh, Master Blender at Demerara Distillers Limited, who is expected to deliver the feature presentation and offer insights into the craftsmanship behind the internationally acclaimed El Dorado Rum, widely regarded as one of the world’s leading premium rum brands.
Executive Chairman of DDL, Dr Komal Samaroo, is also expected to address attendees at the evening programme.
In addition to the presentations, guests will have the opportunity to sample a selection of premium Guyanese rums, enjoy local cuisine and experience displays of Guyanese artistic talent and craftsmanship.
Organisers say the event is designed to offer a uniquely Guyanese celebration of the nation’s Diamond Jubilee of Independence while honouring the country’s internationally recognised achievements in the rum and distillery industry.
El Dorado Rum has become one of the world’s most internationally recognised premium rum brands, proudly carrying Guyana’s name onto the global stage. Tremendous credit must go to Dr Komal Samaroo, the chairman of DDL, whose visionary leadership and dedication helped transform the brand into a symbol of excellence and national pride. Through the success of Demerara Distillers Limited, Guyana has earned worldwide recognition for quality, innovation and craftsmanship.
As the nation celebrates 60 years of Independence, this is a truly historic and proud moment to showcase to the world how a Guyanese company and product evolved into a globally respected brand.