Young artists paint vision of a plastic-free Guyana 

Massy Stores Guyana has recognised six young artists who participated in its “Two Sides of Tomorrow” Visual Arts Competition, which challenged participants to use art to highlight the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of environmental responsibility.
The competition, held under the theme “Paint for a Plastic-Free Planet”, was launched on World Environment Day on June 5 and closed on July 31, attracting 19 entries from young artists between the ages of 10 and 18.
Participants competed in two categories, Junior Impressions, for ages 10 to 14, and Young Visionaries, for ages 15 to 18. They were asked to depict two possible versions of the future: one affected by environmental neglect and plastic pollution, and another shaped by recycling and responsible choices.
The entries were judged anonymously, with judges assessing the artwork and accompanying descriptions based on creativity, interpretation of the theme and the strength of the environmental message.

A People’s Choice Award was also presented in each category based on public voting. Each winner received a $10,000 Massy Stores gift card.
In the Junior Impressions category, Thierry Grant placed first and received $50,000, while Pavni Singh placed second and received $35,000. Sophia Miranda captured the People’s Choice Award.
In the Young Visionaries category, Joanna Manauf secured first place and received $60,000, while Darshanie Tickapersaud placed second and received $40,000. Anliya Chatoor won the People’s Choice Award.
The winners were recognised during a ceremony at Massy Stores Mega on Friday, where they discussed the inspiration behind their artwork and the environmental messages they sought to communicate.
Marketing and Promotions Coordinator at Massy Stores Guyana, Chrystel Taylor, said the competition demonstrated that young people have perspectives on environmental issues that should be heard.
“Through their art, they have shown us that children are not only the leaders of tomorrow – they already have important ideas and perspectives that deserve to be heard today,” Taylor said.
General Manager of Massy Stores Guyana, Christpen Bobb-Semple, highlighted the company’s other environmental initiatives, including its reusable-bag campaign and the introduction of electronic shelf labels at Massy Stores Mega.
He said he hoped the competition would help maintain public discussion about plastic pollution and encourage greater attention to environmental protection.