Lindener wins Guyana’s Independence “Snap and Share” photography competition

Kevon Lorrimer of Linden has copped the first prize in Guyana’s 58th Independence “Snap and Share” photography competition hosted by the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry.
Lorrimer won himself a professional DSLR camera valued at $400,000, $200,000 in cash and a weekend for two at Karanambo.
The competition was aimed at showcasing the photography skills of local travellers as they explored the diverse cultural experiences that Guyana has to offer. The images were submitted to the Ministry and then posted online for the populace to vote for their favourites.

The competition, which started in 2021 in observance of Guyana’s Independence Anniversary, saw more than a thousand submissions. Alongside Lorrimer, other outstanding photographers were recognised for their exceptional work.
The fourth-place prize was awarded to Romario Hastings, who won $75,000 in cash and a weekend rental of a Suzuki Jimny, courtesy of ANSA Rentals. In third place was Nashminie Humel, who won $100,000 in cash and a dinner for two at Marriott Hotel.
Robert Wall secured the second-place prize of $150,000 along with a dinner for two at Cara Lodge valued at $30,000.
During the award ceremony at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Tourism Minister Oneidge Walrond highlighted that the competition had a reach of over 2.5 million and 75,000 reactions.
“I was intrigued by the analytics of over 2.5 million reach and 75,000 reactions. However, the impact of this competition extends beyond Facebook. In a moment, we will unveil the top five images which will remain mounted in the Arthur Chung Centre to showcase our destination and creativity to the thousands of visitors this facility receives every year.”

She emphasised the competition’s role in boosting Guyana’s tourism sector and fostering wider participation of citizens in the country’s tourism products.
“Local participation plays a crucial role in fostering rapid and sustainable tourism development and the establishment of successful community-based tourism models. I acknowledge the hard work of the staff of the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Commerce, and the Guyana Tourism Authority,” she said.
Walrond also mentioned the increased interest in tourism and artistic expression the competition has fostered.
“We have not only fostered artistic expression, but also a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us and inspires travel to more destinations within our country,” she added.
Additionally, the Minister highlighted the enhancement of prize monies, which exceeded last year’s amounts. “I am happy to report that there has been a significant improvement in our prizes. Our top five winners will receive free photography training from one of our more experienced photographers in Guyana.”
Photos from the competition will be published in the Tourism Ministry’s annual “Snap and Share” magazine, and distributed to Government offices and tourism establishments in Guyana and abroad.

The magazine will also be available in a soft copy for easier distribution.
Further, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) is working with Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) to create more visibility for images highlighting Destination Guyana.
These stunning photos are likely to be featured at major ports of entry, with full attribution to the photographers. The ministry is also considering creating jigsaw puzzles using these images.
A minority of photos were not posted due to heavy editing and enhancements, as well as issues with composition. Despite this, the competition successfully showcased the incredible talent of Guyanese photographers and the breathtaking beauty of Guyana.