EU celebrates disability and community champions

Diplomats, civil society actors, and community leaders gathered at the European Union Residence in Bel Air Springs on Monday to celebrate the achievements of 2025 and highlight initiatives supporting vulnerable groups in Guyana.

The event, hosted by Luca Pierantoni, EU Ambassador to Guyana, coincided with the visit of Ms. Marianne van Steen, Head of Division for the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America at the European External Action Service.

Among those recognised was Leroy Phillips, organiser of Guyana’s first-ever EU Walk–Run. Ambassador Pierantoni praised the initiative, saying, “Beyond the athletic element, it created a space where participants stood with persons with disabilities, recognizing their contributions and the importance of ensuring equitable opportunities for all.” The walk–run raised funds for the Guyana Blind Cricket Association and was described as a moment where “inclusion is strengthened through shared experiences when athletes, families, partners and supporters come together to promote visibility and community.”

Phillips and other organisers, including Danielle, Yvette Hansen of Friends of France, and Uniqua from Stride, received a ceremonial cheque from the ambassador. Pierantoni said, “It was a real pleasure to work with you… it’s our intention to continue to work on the issue also in the coming year.”

The reception also highlighted Guyana’s ongoing commitment to the 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign to end violence against women and girls. Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud noted the government’s efforts over recent years, saying, “When we signed on to Spotlight in 2020, we did so with a deep sense of commitment to eradicating violence… and today we have a comprehensive roadmap, including the Family Violence Act of 2024, a framework on gender-based violence, harassment, and amendments to the Sexual Offences Act.”

Dr. Persaud also outlined initiatives supporting persons with disabilities, including expanded cash grants, improved transportation and housing, and empowerment programmes such as the Women Innovation Investment Network, which has assisted more than 19,500 women through vocational training. “We cannot do this alone,” she said. “Partnerships are powerful… and collaborations like these remind us how important it is to look beyond self and support those who need it most.”

A short video recap of the walk–run was screened, showcasing the event’s energy and community spirit. While Leroy Phillips received individual recognition, the evening emphasised fostering inclusion, promoting human rights, and building partnerships to strengthen Guyana’s vulnerable populations.

“Congratulations to all those awarded tonight,” Dr. Persaud concluded, “especially the blind cricket team. The more things we do, the more it improves the quality of lives of all vulnerable populations and those with special needs.”

Attendees also viewed an exhibition and exchanged seasonal greetings as the EU-hosted event underscored the continued importance of advocacy, visibility, and action for meaningful social change.