The Amerindian Craft and Food Exhibition and Cultural Night in Guyana, which ran from September 2 to 5, saw scores of persons in attendance on the final night, ending on a high note.
The event, which was held at the Amerindian Village, Sophia Exhibition Complex, displayed the diversity of the indigenous culture and was part of the planned activities for the 19th Amerindian Heritage Month celebrations.
On sales were a variety of indigenous jewellery, such as beads and necklaces.
The food exhibition afforded Guyanese an opportunity to taste a wide variety of dishes and drinks prepared and used by Amerindians. This year’s event was said to be the largest as compared to previous years.
The talent show saw electrifying cultural pieces in the form of dances, songs and rituals from Amerindian talent groups from Surama, Karadaranau, Sand Creek, Mainstay, Kwebanna and Barima Wini.
Amerindian Affairs Ministry Liaison Officer Yvonne Pearson, said the ministry is pleased with the success of the event and the participation of persons this year, adding that the ministry is looking forward to have greater participation in 2014.
“A lot of effort was put in all the planning, to get the people out here, so we are glad the event is so successful.”
Room for improvement
She stated that the ministry is always open to input on how it can improve its activities, adding that there is always room for development.
The event received mixed views on the overall response from exhibitors who took part, hailing from Regions One, Two, Four, Five, Six and Nine. Many of the exhibitors noted that being a part of the exhibition over the years has aided them significantly, to financially support their families, adding that they hope the exhibition would have extended into the weekend.
Margerie Rodgrigues of Moruca, Region One, who has been a part of the exhibition since it began, said “It was good on the first day while the second, the third, it wasn’t that good, but tonight has been very good and I can assure that before the end of the night, all my products will be finished.”
Beneficial
She added that being a part of the annual event has helped her to send some of her products overseas to be sold and showcased.
Meanwhile, Barbara Thomas of Moruca, Region One, said initially, business was slow, but on the final night, it improved.
Another craftsman, Neville Calistro from Kabakaburi, who has participated in the event from the inception, added that this year was quite different from the previous years. “The sales and the organising has really changed up, it costs more.” However, he said the event has helped him to gain more customers over the years.
Some of the exhibitor’s said they believe the event should have been advertised more, positing that it was not enough to market their products.
The month is being observed under the theme: “Honouring Our Culture, Advancing Our Future”. (Excerpt from Guyana Times)
