ERC honours winners of film competition

Winners of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) film competition were honoured at an awards ceremony and screening held at Caribbean Cinemas, Giftland Mall, on Friday.

Under the theme “Promoting Ethnic Respect and Unity”, awards and prizes were presented to films that exemplified messages aimed at educating and countering racism in Guyana.

The top three placements were awarded to Rae Wiltshire for “Between Oceans” (1st place), Keon Hector for “Luna” (2nd place), and Omari Joseph for “Four Years Later” (3rd place). The seven consolation prize winners were Daniel De Freitas, Sonia Yarde, Vishan Harripersaud, Jerimiah James, Deborah Lambert, Cordell A. McClure, and Ishmael Abrams.

In a release, the ERC noted that the ceremony included the screening of the top three films, the presentation of awards to the winning filmmakers, and recognition of the winners for Best Actor – Paul Budnah, Best Actress – Marissa MorganBonie, Best Director – Rae Wiltshire, and Best Script/Screenplay – Omari Joseph. Over $3 million in cash and prizes were awarded, and the top ten films will be shared on the ERC’s social media platforms in the coming days.

ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack emphasised the underlying objectives of the competition. “We have witnessed a commendable display of creativity, storytelling prowess, and technical skill from filmmakers across the nation. The sheer diversity of narratives, the innovative approaches to filmmaking, and the depth of emotion captured on screen have truly impressed us all.”

A panel of independent, external judges comprising Andrew Kendall, Dexter Pembroke, Colleen Humphrey, and Gem Madhoo-Nascimento evaluated the submissions based on criteria including story and creativity, directing and acting, sound and music, cinematography, production design, and overall impact.

Mrs Nascimento gave an overview of the judges’ observations. “The stronger entries in particular should be commended for thoughtful assessment of the issues surrounding race, depicted in the conversations between parents and children.”

Commissioner Deon Dick (Ras Khafra), a member of the ERC PR / Media Sub-Committee, remarked that the filmmakers had taken bold steps to explore identity, challenge stereotypes, and promote understanding in ways that are both creative and deeply personal. “This competition isn’t just about awards – it’s about encouraging voices that don’t always get the spotlight. It’s about giving space to stories that help us understand one another better,” he added.

The ERC expressed its continued support for film as a powerful medium to promote its mandate of peace and inclusion. By showcasing stories that highlight Guyana’s diversity and the importance of harmonious relationships, the Commission aims to inspire positive social change.

A free public screening of the award-winning films was held on Saturday, 10 May at 6 pm at Caribbean Cinemas, Giftland Mall. The film competition followed last year’s ERC jingle competition and served as a launch pad to promote greater awareness and respect among all ethnic groups in Guyana. It also sought to foster peaceful coexistence and dispel erroneous impressions about race and ethnicity.

The competition, launched on 1 November 2024 and concluded on 28 February 2025, received 14 entries that showcased the rich talent and creativity within the burgeoning Guyanese film industry. The event ultimately celebrated Guyanese filmmakers and their contributions to advancing ethnic respect and tolerance through the art of film.

At section of the gathering at the screening