Toshao urges Indigenous peers to seize opportunities to make mark in society

Growing up at a time when handmade lamps powered by kerosene oil were the only nightlights available, Jaremy Boyal of Warapoka Village has witnessed a significant transformation in the livelihoods of indigenous folks, especially those who live in far-flung areas where huge gaps exist when compared to coast landers.
However, as more is being done to bridge those gaps as the years go by, he believes that more indigenous youths should seek out and take up the opportunities that are becoming available, in order to better their lives and make a lasting mark on their communities, and ultimately their country.
Boyal, a 39-year-old father of three, is currently the Toshao of Warapoka located on the Waini River in the Moruca Sub District of Region One (Barima-Waini).
Warapoka being a traditional Warrau Village that is some 7000-years-old; it was originally called Awaraboko after the first settlers of the community.

“Warapoka is not the same village as in the 80’s and 90’s. Lots of development projects are going on presently: water well drilling now, renovation to the school building and teachers’ quarters, CSO [Community Support Officers], CIIP, pathway workers, all working. In the early, morning people going to their farms, fishermen coming from the nights’ catch, school children walking to school…” Boyal reflected on the advancements now, compared to when he was growing up.
Despite the lack of access, resources and opportunities available back then, Boyal has managed to emerge as a well-respected indigenous leader, who works tirelessly to ensure the lives of his people improve.
“I have always wanted to be part of developing my village and having the village residents see the potential and put their trust in me,” he remarked.
“I was elected as the Toshao in 2021. Now being the Toshao for the second term I have the opportunity to see my vision for the village start to materialise.

I might not be able to accomplish all my visions but I have already worked with the village and developed our 10-year sustainable plan so incoming Toshaos can continue to follow the plan,” he noted.
Boyal was first introduced to schooling in the barracks at Warapoka.
At the age of 9, however, he moved to the nearby village of Kwebanna where he attended the primary school.
Thereafter, he attended the Santa Rosa Secondary School where he wrote his Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) exams.
After secondary school, Boyal landed a job with the Guyana Marine Conservation Society, an organisation that was established in 2000 by Annette Arjoon.
“There I got the knowledge of tourism and conservation,” Boyal reflected with gratitude, reminding that “back then opportunities were not as many as now for school leavers”.
Through his experiences gained, Boyal developed a strong passion for tourism and conservation and now, he plays a leading role in promoting his own village’s tourism and that of its entire district.
More so, because of his expertise, he was selected to be the leader of a team that is helping to promote tourism in the Rupununi, located on the complete opposite end of the map from his hometown.
Though the geography and landscapes of two regions are vastly different, Boyal explained that he was able to offer guidance in terms of developing the governance side of tourism for the villages.
“…how to really manage a community-owned and operated tourism business, in terms of the terms of reference for the tourism committee and village council, what rules can be made so you can have a smooth governance structure, roles and responsibilities [of persons involved to avoid conflicts], etc.,” he explained, noting too that it is a learning experience for him.
“As much as we’re doing tourism, conservation on a larger scale is not what we have been doing but it’s something that we want to do,” Boyal added.
According to him, “one of my dreams for my village was to promote it as a tourism destination.”
“I would like to see my village as the leading village for tourism and conservation initiatives in the region while supporting other villages,” Boyal remarked.
Already, he has worked with others to set up a Region One Tourism Committee and he is currently the Chairperson for the Moruca District Council which will soon be applying for legal recognition.
Boyal also served as a National Toshao Council Executive member on the previous body, which he explained gave him insights on indigenous development through different lenses.
“Having my village as the leading village in tourism in the region and Moruca district is one that make me proud,” Boyal expressed.
Reflecting on his life and the opportunities he has seized and is currently using to make a difference, Toshao Boyal is encouraging other indigenous youths to follow suit, notwithstanding their challenges.
“To all those persons, especially those in the hinterland of Guyana who feels there is not enough opportunities out there, is to reach out to NGOs, Government, make yourself available. Develop a plan for the village and yourself and most importantly work hard and make a sacrifice. Success comes by hard work and commitment,” Boyal guaranteed.