Children’s 2026 Mashramani Competition launched

With costumes being prepared, dance steps rehearsed, and all necessary equipment in place to bring the stage alive, the Children’s Mashramani Competition was officially launched on Monday at the National Cultural Centre.
The event, themed “Expressing Our Culture Through Innovation and Creativity,” celebrates Guyanese culture through the talents of young people across Georgetown.
This year’s competition features students competing in several categories, including Dramatic Poetry, Calypso, Dance, Masquerade, Hip Hop, and the Costume Parade. Winners from this segment will advance to the National Children’s Mashramani Competitions.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Planning Officer Mischka White-Griffith underscored the importance of the initiative, noting that it provides a platform for children to thrive and freely express themselves.

White-Griffith added that when the children take part in the competition, they do so with joy, confidence, and a rich sense of spirit. She concluded by expressing her delight at being present for the occasion.
Addressing teachers and parents, White-Griffith urged them to encourage children who grace the stage to recognize that their talent is more than a hobby.
She further stressed that Guyanese talent should not be limited to local platforms, highlighting the importance of regional and international representation.
“Their talent can become a career — a career that can take them further and, more importantly, transform what happens in our lives, we are represented not just on the national stage, but regionally and internationally. Every performer here today has the potential to become an outstanding international star, and that deserves a bigger round of applause,” she noted.
White-Griffith also expressed her excitement about the future impact of the competition.
“I’m delighted to be part of this wonderful show. What excites me is that hundreds of thousands of people around the world go on to become artists, dancers, singers, and performers who carry the culture of their country further and further,” she said.
She emphasized the role of culture in uniting people globally and showcasing resilience through performance.
Turning her attention to education and its relevance, White-Griffith highlighted the connection between cultural expression and academic learning.
“You will connect on a deeper level with your culture and see relevance in what you learn in social studies, British culture, performing arts, and academics. You may be learning far more than you realize,” she said.
She encouraged collaboration, learning, and participation, particularly for those inspired by the performances.
“Those sitting in the auditorium who are secretly wishing to join the stage — you can next year. Join the club if you would like to learn to dance,” she encouraged.
White-Griffith also urged children practicing their talents at home to seek opportunities for growth.
She also encouraged participants to be bold, creative, and ambitious highlighting the fact that they too can possibly be performing on grand stages like the national culture center.
“If you’re singing at home, join a choir. Let us nurture your talent together, because this stage belongs to every child in this country, let us dream it. Let us create it. Let this Mashramani celebration add to greatness — to creating your legacy. That is the competition, and more importantly, the fun.”