In a historic move to foster unity, empowerment, and cultural preservation, two indigenous young ladies have joined hands to launch the first-ever Indigenous Students Society (UGISS) at the University of Guyana (UG).
L-R: Co-founder of the Indigenous Students Society (UGISS) Alliah Simon and Co-founder and President Sylvany Robertson
A VISION OF UNITY AND EMPOWERMENT
Alliah Simon, a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation, co-founded the society.
Hailing from Pakuri in Region Four, Simon started her academic journey at UG in 2020, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology.
During her time at the university, Simon noticed a lack of spaces where Indigenous students could come together, share their cultures, and learn from one another.
This gap inspired Simon to form UGISS, especially as she approached her graduation year.
I always wanted to form something like this. However, I never pushed myself, or I never had anybody to push me or work with me to form this society. But before I leave the university, I wanted to create a space where our youths could collaborate and teach others about our rich heritage.
BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF INDIGENOUS LEADERS
The UGISS has set ambitious goals, focusing on three core pillars:
- Empowering Indigenous Students: The society aims to inspire Indigenous youths to take on leadership roles and become ambassadors of their culture. The society encourages its members to step into spaces where their voices can be heard and to make impactful contributions to their communities and beyond.
- Cultural Exchange and Education: UGISS promotes learning and teaching about the diverse traditions, languages, and lifestyles of Guyana’s nine Indigenous nations. This initiative is not limited to Indigenous students; it also aims to educate the wider university community, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural richness.
- Creating a Supportive Network: The society serves as a familial support system, offering Indigenous students a sense of belonging. UGISS fosters collaboration among its members, ensuring they have a space where they feel understood, valued, and supported throughout their academic journey.
PRESERVING INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES: A BOLD NEW INITIATIVE
One of the standout projects under UGISS is its focus on language preservation.
Co-founder and President Sylvany Robertson is leading this initiative to ensure that every member leaves the society with at least a basic understanding of phrases from each of Guyana’s Indigenous languages.
I believe that language defines who you are. Our goal is to develop a language app similar to Duolingo that will feature all nine native languages of Guyana. This app will not only be a learning tool for our members but also a resource for anyone interested in preserving and promoting our Indigenous languages.
CELEBRATING CULTURE THROUGH EVENTS AND PARTNERSHIPS
UGISS plans to organise various cultural events, such as workshops, exhibitions, and performances, to celebrate Indigenous dance, art, cuisine, and crafts.
These events aim to unite the university community in appreciation of Guyana’s Indigenous heritage. The society also seeks to establish community partnerships with external organisations, which will provide additional resources and support for Indigenous students.
ADVOCACY AND AWARENESS
Beyond campus activities, UGISS is committed to promoting Indigenous rights and heritage on a national level. The society provides a platform for Indigenous students to advocate for their communities, ensuring their voices are heard in discussions on cultural preservation and social justice.
A WELCOMING COMMUNITY FOR ALL
While UGISS is dedicated to empowering Indigenous students, it remains open to everyone interested in learning about Guyana’s Indigenous cultures.
However, to ensure authentic representation, only students of Indigenous descent can hold positions on the executive body, which comprises eleven members representing all four academic years at the university.
