As Guyana continues to mourn the devastating MV Barima tragedy, 23 United States Peace Corps volunteers have been sworn in to serve in communities across the country, with U.S. Ambassador Nicole Theriot saying their presence comes at a time when “people who show up for one another” are needed most.
The volunteers, known as Group 37, officially took the oath of service during a ceremony attended by government officials, representatives of the Ministry of Education, Peace Corps staff, host families and community partners.
Addressing the ceremony before administering the oath, Theriot reflected on Guyana’s recent loss and extended condolences to those affected by the tragedy.
“You are facing… moments like this when what sustains a community is not any single institution or government. It is people. People who show up for one another,” she said, adding that the bonds the volunteers build with their host communities will carry even greater significance during this period.
The ambassador noted that since the Peace Corps was established in 1961, 1,132 volunteers have served in Guyana. She said those volunteers have co-taught more than 3,000 science lessons with 168 teachers, helped establish libraries in primary schools, and trained more than 200 teachers and students in library management, creating lasting benefits long after their service ends.
Peace Corps Guyana Country Director Christie Scott told the volunteers they were transitioning from training into service after completing ten weeks of preparation in technical skills, Guyanese history and culture, and local language.
She reminded them that their greatest impact would come through the relationships they build rather than seeking perfection.
“We do not expect you to arrive at your sites with all the answers. Your communities are not expecting perfection. They are looking for someone who is dependable, curious, respectful and willing to work alongside them,” Scott said.
Earlier, Senior Education Officer Donella Shamsudeen speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, encouraged the volunteers to support literacy, youth development and community engagement while embracing the culture of the communities where they will serve.
She urged them to approach their assignments with patience, openness and respect, saying meaningful change is built through trust, consistency and genuine commitment.
Following the administration of the oath, the 23 volunteers officially began their two-year Peace Corps service in communities across Guyana.
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