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The New York chapter of Guyana Day USA Inc. on Saturday, May 25, recognised notable Guyanese diaspora individuals for their social and professional activities, cultural achievements and for flying the flag with pride and joy.
Guyana’s 58th Anniversary AwardsNumber Independence Day was held at the organization’s food distribution center, 128.Number At the intersection of Newark and Liberty Avenues in Queens, NYPD First Deputy Chief Tania Kinsella, of Guyanese descent, was honored for her extraordinary service after starting her career as a policewoman recently appointed by Mayor Eric Adams and working her way up the ranks to become the first female deputy chief and the first Black woman to hold the top job.
“My mother is Guyanese, I am Guyanese and my father is Jamaican but I was raised Guyanese and enjoyed black cake at Christmas. I hope that you all look at me and envision yourself or your daughter or son becoming a police officer. I never dreamed I would be standing before you as the second highest ranking officer in the largest police department in the world,” Kinsella said.
“I went to Guyana last week. It was not just a business trip, it was a spiritual enlightenment for me. I grew up always hearing about Guyana as underdeveloped and very poor. I have never seen anything like that. I saw a lot of beauty. I saw a lot of technology and development that President Ali has produced in Guyana. I want to thank him for putting Guyana on the map alongside other Caribbean countries.
“Let’s applaud him,” Kinsella said, also thanking Mayor Eric Adams for his vision. “I didn’t know I had that vision, but it’s not just me. He’s empowering all women of all races, all backgrounds. So let’s continue to support him. Thank you again for this incredible honor. This is not just an award, it’s an award from my people. I hope I can make you all proud,” she added.
Born in Guyana and spending her childhood there, Tracey Lewis returned to the United States at age 17 and enlisted as an EMT before joining the New York Fire Department, where she made history as the second Black female Lieutenant in Brooklyn. She also serves as the Executive Officer of the New York City Fire Commission.
“I grew up in Guyana, just like the FDNY’s first Deputy Chief Kinsella. I’m Guyanese, but I live in the United States and of course I embrace the culture, but I always try not to forget where I come from. In the fire department, we always say never to forget where you come from. I started with the department as a trainee, worked as a paramedic, and now I’m a lieutenant and work as the chief’s executive officer.”
“We talk about breaking the glass ceiling, and in 2024, women will be at the forefront on every front thanks to Mayor Eric Adams. He has appointed many highly qualified women to positions running our city.”
“I’m also grateful for my superiors for leading me to where I am today. This is an example of leading others. This is what my parents and grandparents taught us as they came to America to provide better opportunities. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us and I want to do the same for those who come after me. I’m grateful to be in this position and to be able to serve and help my community. Happy Independence Day,” said Lt. Lewis.
Professional boxer Elton Felix Daly has just returned from Guyana, where he won his eighth fight in his home country and will become a challenger for the WBA super flyweight title holder.
Darry expressed his gratitude to all those who have supported his career, which began at a young age. He is the WBA number 5 ranked boxer in the super flyweight division.
“I am Guyanese through and through. Many years ago when I started boxing, people close to me told me not to represent Guyana saying it was a waste of time. But I set a goal over 20 years ago and I am determined to achieve it. I have learned to work hard, be humble and keep moving forward. I will continue to pray that God will strengthen me and show me how to achieve my goals and I will continue to work hard to represent Guyana. You will see a lot more of me and I will bring a championship back to Guyana. It has been good so far but I know I still have a long way to go. So I will keep working hard until I feel like I can’t do it anymore,” Dally said.
Monarch Adrian Duchene, singer of the hugely popular soca anthem “I’m Guyanese”, said he never imagined his song would become known worldwide.
“Growing up in Guyana, I never had any expectations of becoming anything or going anywhere. But I had one God. I am a firm believer in prayer, being humble and never forgetting my roots. I started singing when I was 12 years old and today I am 43 and still singing. I am grateful to the people of Guyana for the love and support they have given me. I wrote this song sitting in my Brooklyn apartment. I never expected it to be so well received. I think the reason it has become so popular is because of its message.”
“It’s in the hearts of Guyanese and it will be there long after I’m gone because of what it represents,” Duchene said, adding, “I’m still proud of who I am. I will always represent my country. To all overseas, never disparage a Guyanese. I represent at night, I represent day and night. Wherever I go, I carry the GT flag. Wherever I am, I am Guyanese. I am Guyanese.”
“Wherever I perform around the world, Guyanese are waving the flag. We are all Guyanese. We are one people, one nation, one destiny, one Guyana,” Duchene said.
Record store owner H. Mohabir was also presented with a plaque and said he was grateful for the honour.
“I came to this country in 1983 with no money or education but I have achieved a lot. Be humble, honest and love everyone. If you are happy with what you have, you can get what you want and achieve a lot,” Mohabir said, thanking Fayuz Ali for the great work he has done at the food distribution center.
Guest speaker, Mr. Fazal Yusuf, Adviser on Diaspora Affairs at the Guyana Consulate, delivered 58th Independence Day greetings on behalf of President Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Vice President Bharrat Jegdeo and Guyanese in the Diaspora.
Yusuf spoke about the transformation of the Republic, touching on the ongoing road works, the new Demerara Port Bridge being constructed, incentive programmes for senior citizens and school children, saying his government was working for all its citizens.
“For those who haven’t been home in a while, I urge you to come back. We may all live here but at the end of the day, we call Guyana home. Our hearts will always be there. I know that each and every one of you will be welcomed back. The diaspora has been so important to the success and transformation. Thank you for all you do to support Guyana. Happy Independence Day,” Yusuf said.
“Always show love and compassion to others. I am proud of my Guyanese culture and traditions and am fortunate to be able to contribute to this community. My family just came from Guyana and didn’t have much, but we were instilled in them to treat others the way they would like to be treated,” said Berkeley Vanthal, who is of Guyanese heritage., The Captain, Commander of the 16th District, extended his Independence Day congratulations to the nation.
“The Guyana Day USA New York Chapter has a team of dedicated volunteers who sacrifice their precious time to help others through the food pantry,” said Fayuse Ali, Public Relations Director and Treasurer.
“Every Saturday, rain or snow, cold or shine, dedicated people come together and volunteer their time to help address food insecurity throughout our community.”
“They ask for nothing in return, no special treatment or recognition for their service. Love for humanity and fellow human beings is their reward! Kudos to these amazing volunteers,” said Ali, who hosted the awards ceremony.
Community leaders, Manhattan Borough Adjunct Professor Chuck Mohan and Dr. Dhampaul Narine attended the celebration.
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