Peace Corps Volunteers Urged to Maintain “Peace and Friendship”

– As 18 New Trainees were sworn in

Eighteen new Peace Corps volunteers were officially sworn in today during a ceremony at the Umana Yana in Georgetown.

The event marked the beginning of their service in Guyana, where they will contribute to various sectors over the next two years.

U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, delivered remarks expressing her admiration for the strong relationships the trainees have already begun to build.

She shared her personal reflections, stating that although she didn’t choose to serve in the Peace Corps, she now wishes she had, after witnessing the invaluable experiences and opportunities it offers to volunteers.

“The Peace Corps mission is about peace and friendship,” Ambassador Theriot reminded the new volunteers. She praised the diverse group, hailing from various parts of the United States, and thanked them for representing their home country during this significant chapter of their lives.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, highlighted the critical role of the Peace Corps in Guyana, urging the volunteers to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture during their stay.

He emphasized the positive impact their presence has on the health sector and other areas of national development.

Representing the Ministry of Education, Deputy Chief Education Officer ‘Administration’ (DCEO) ag. Tiffany Harvey welcomed the volunteers and expressed gratitude for their service. She noted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance education in Guyana and the benefits that Peace Corps volunteers bring to these initiatives.

Peace Corps Country Director Deborah Connor reiterated the volunteers’ responsibilities in their respective sectors, emphasizing their commitment to the Peace Corps’ mission of helping others. She mentioned that over 1,400 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Guyana since 1996, with this group marking the 35th cohort.

One of the new volunteers, Josiah Pack, spoke on behalf of the group, sharing his excitement and sense of purpose in joining the Peace Corps.

He described choosing to serve in Guyana as one of the best decisions he has made. Pack highlighted the incredible experiences they’ve had so far, from the beautiful scenery to the vibrant culture and cuisine. He affirmed that he and his fellow volunteers are committed to making a meaningful impact during their mission, despite any challenges they may face.

The Education Trainees include:

Adriana Cammarano from New Jersey
Paula Clark from Pennsylvania
Eunice Cuffie from Georgia
Emily Kuster from Texas
Georgia Metz from North Carolina
Josiah Pack from Kentucky
Michael Smith from Washington

The Environment Trainees are:

Cristina Diaz from North Carolina
Tana Early from Alabama
Chance Herbst from Missouri
Matthew Jester from Louisiana
Justin Mascarin from Ohio
Isis Parker from Louisiana
Lily Poat from Oregon
Kayla Poncius from Minnesota
Marcelo Sanchez Viniegra from Texas

The Health Trainees are:

Delanie Craighead from California
Jameiya Walker from California

In 1961, President John F Kennedy established the Peace Corps to promote world peace and friendship. The three goals of the Peace Corps have not changed since its founding. They are:

To help the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women.

To help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served.

To help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.

The ceremony concluded with a sense of optimism and dedication, as the new volunteers prepared to embark on their service across Guyana.