The year 2024 has been one of groundbreaking initiatives and impactful work led by Guyana’s First Lady Arya Ali, who has championed causes that touch the lives of thousands across the country.
Her efforts, which have included addressing menstrual hygiene, empowering women, supporting children, and enhancing community development, have redefined what it means to lead with purpose.
The First Lady’s Menstrual Hygiene Initiative is a beacon of hope for young girls across Guyana, particularly those in hinterland and underserved communities. Recognising the challenges posed by period poverty, this initiative has provided thousands of girls with access to sanitary products and education on menstrual health.
During her outreach in the Barima-Waini Region, over 1,100 young girls received sanitary supplies. By removing barriers such as limited access to menstrual products, the programme ensures that menstruation no longer hinders educational opportunities or compromises health.
Her tireless advocacy at international platforms, such as the Global Power Women Conference, has also placed this crucial issue on the global agenda. We here at the Opinion Desk strongly believe that everyone should be proud of this initiative.
But beyond menstrual health, the First Lady has spearheaded initiatives to empower women in traditionally male-dominated industries. Through her scholarship programme with the Atlantic Alliance Maritime and Offshore Training Institute (AAMOTI), dozens of women from the hinterland have gained skills for careers in oil and gas, maritime, and construction.
These efforts are breaking barriers and paving the way for greater gender parity.Children have been at the heart of the First Lady’s initiatives in 2024. Her Adopt-an-Orphanage Initiative continues to provide vital support to institutionalised children, offering medical care, educational supplies, and opportunities for creative expression.
Orphanages across the country benefit from sponsorships that cover utilities, maintenance, and other essentials. Notable highlights include free eye screenings for over 250 children in partnership with Optique Vision Care and the distribution of 500+ backpacks and school supplies to underserved communities.
These projects not only address immediate needs but also build a foundation for a brighter future for Guyana’s youth. The First Lady’s impact extends to community development. This year, her office handed over a fully furnished $15.3 million home to a family in need, showcasing her commitment to providing safe and dignified living conditions.
She also inaugurated new recreational spaces, including a state-of-the-art Children’s Play Park in Georgetown, featuring innovative amenities like a splash pad and outdoor games.
True to tradition, the First Lady brought joy to thousands during the festive season not so long ago. She delivered hampers to Christmas babies, hosted toy distributions for children, and brought communities together for parades and concerts.
These moments reflect her belief in the power of kindness and generosity to uplift spirits and foster unity. As the saying goes, we must give Jill her jacket.
In this case, we must credit the First Lady for tirelessly mobilising resources, engaging with communities, and advocating for the vulnerable.
With the curtain already down on 2024, the Opinion Desk looks forward to the initiatives and transformative work that will come from the First Lady’s Office in 2025.
