EMC Conducts Tour Guiding and Interpretation Training Program at St. Cuthbert’s Mission

On November 29, 2024, the EMC Group, in collaboration with the Guyana Tourism Authority and St. Cuthbert’s Mission, and with support from the ExxonMobil Foundation through the Guyana Conservation Initiative, hosted a Tour Guiding and Interpretation Training Certification Ceremony.

This event marked the culmination of the Tour Guiding and Interpretation Training Program, which ran from November 25 to 29, 2024. The program was designed to empower participants with the skills needed to deliver captivating, informative, and authentic visitor experiences. With a focus on itinerary development, visitor engagement, and interpretive techniques, the training equipped attendees to showcase the unique cultural and natural heritage of St. Cuthbert’s Mission.

The certification ceremony featured remarks from several notable representatives, including the Toshao of St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Mr. Alvoro Simon; Ms. Candace Phillips, Senior Manager of Product Development at the Guyana Tourism Authority; Ms. Shannon Stephenson, Senior Environmental Officer at EMC Inc.; and Ms. Suzanne DeAbreu, Community Relations Manager at the ExxonMobil Limited Guyana. Each speaker emphasised the importance of the training in advancing tourism at St. Cuthbert’s Mission, supporting the vision of making “Destination Pakuri” a thriving reality. They commended the participants and expressed optimism about the enhanced tourism experiences these newly certified guides will bring to the village.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the St. Cuthbert’s Cultural Group performed a traditional dance, while the St. Cuthbert’s Primary Environmental Club recited a heartfelt poem celebrating the beauty and heritage of the Mahaica watershed and St. Cuthbert’s Mission.

Certificates and tokens of appreciation were presented to the participants, acknowledging their efforts and newfound roles as ambassadors of Pakuri’s cultural and natural heritage. Equipped with their training, they are now prepared to create experiences that educate, inspire, and leave a lasting impression on visitors to this remarkable destination.

Toshao Alvoro Simon Providing Brief Remarks on Behalf of St. Cuthbert’s Mission

Candace Phillips Providing Brief Remarks on Behalf of the Guyana Tourism Authority

Shannon Stephenson Providing Brief Remarks on Behalf of EMC Inc.

Suzanne DeAbreu Providing Brief Remarks on Behalf of ExxonMobil Foundation

Members of St. Cuthbert’s Mission Cultural Group Performing a Cultural Dance

Members of St. Cuthbert’s Primary Environmental Club Reciting a Poem

Participants of the Training Receiving their Certificates and Tokens of Appreciation