ERC award-winning films evoke emotions to countering racism

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Friday held its Film Competition Awards Ceremony and Screening at the Caribbean Cinemas, Giftland Mall, where the winning Guyanese filmmakers and their contributions to promoting ethnic respect and tolerance, through the art of film, was celebrated.

Under the theme “Promoting Ethnic Respect and Unity,” awards and prizes to the tune of more than $3 million, were presented for the winning films that exemplified the messages aimed at educating and countering racism in Guyana.
Launched on November 1, 2024, and concluded on February 28, 2025, the ERC Film Competition invited filmmakers to create compelling stories that foster understanding, empathy, and appreciation for Guyana’s diverse cultures. The competition received 14 entries showcasing the rich talent and creativity within the burgeoning Guyanese film industry.
The top three films, as well as seven others, to round off the top 10 winners, were recognised at the awards ceremony on Friday.
The top three placements were awarded to: Rae Wiltshire, who secured first place for his film “Between Oceans”; Keon Hector was second for “Luna”; and Omari Joseph copped the third spot for his film, “Four Years Later.”
The seven consolation prize winners were: Daniel De Freitas, Sonia Yarde, Vishan Harripersaud, Jerimiah James, Deborah Lambert, Cordell A McClure, and Ishmael Abrams.

Friday’s awards ceremony also included the screening of the top three winning films, presentation of awards to the winning filmmakers, and recognition of the winners for Best Actor – Paul Budnah, Best Actress – Marissa Morgan-Bonie, Best Director – Rae Wiltshire, and Best Script/Screenplay – Omari Joseph.
The top 10 films will be shared on the ERC social media platforms soon.
During Friday’s event, Chairman of the ERC, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, underscored 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,” the Chairman emphasised.
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. The winners were announced in April.

Madhoo-Nascimento gave an overview of the observations made by the judges. “The stronger entries in particular should be commended for thoughtful assessment of the issues surrounding race, depicted in the conversations between parents and children,” she observed on Friday.
Committee member of the ERC – PR/Media sub-committee, Commissioner Deon Dick (Ras Khafra) remarked that the filmmakers have 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 convincingly.
The ERC supports film as a powerful medium for promoting 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 airing of the Award-Winning Films was opened to the public on Saturday at the Caribbean Cinemas, Giftland Mall.
The film competition came on the heels of the ERC jingle competition last year, serving as a launch pad to boost further awareness and respect among all ethnic groups in Guyana to coexist peacefully and eliminate erroneous impressions about race and ethnicity.