GUSDA since 1995

The Guyana UK Social Development Association (GUSDA) has been a pillar of support for Guyanese communities both in the UK and Guyana since its inception in 1995. Through successful fundraising initiatives, GUSDA has contributed significantly to humanitarian aid, education, cultural preservation, and social welfare.

 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, GUSDA provided critical assistance, including a £2000 donation towards food hampers for vulnerable communities in Guyana (May 2020), collaborating with Humanity Wins Foundation to distribute hampers to over 170 families (June/July 2020), and supporting a UK family in financial distress (August 2020). We also hosted an International Guyanese Zoom Event for unity (September 2020) and continued our annual sponsorship of the Dochfour-Greenfield Harmony Group, awarding top-performing students (November 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023,2024). Further aid included Christmas hampers for children of disadvantaged families in Guyana (December 2020), flood relief efforts in Guyana (July & November 2021), and financial support for a Guyanese law student (December 2021).

 

Beyond pandemic relief, GUSDA has consistently supported education, healthcare, and cultural programs. In 2019, we donated £2000 to the Women’s Empowerment Programme led by Guyana’s First Lady. In previous years, donations were made to institutions such as the National Psychiatric Hospital and Joshua House Children’s Centre (2017), Uncle Eddie’s Home for the Elderly (2016), and the Amos Bursary supporting Caribbean heritage students in the UK.

 

GUSDA also contributed to sports by supporting Guyanese athletes in international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games (2002) and the Atlanta Olympics (1996).

 

Cultural promotion is a key pillar of GUSDA's work. Our flagship events include the Annual Guyana Family Sports and Fun Day, which attracts thousands of attendees, and the Annual Guyana UK Folk Festival, showcasing Guyanese heritage through music, food, and performances.

 

Looking ahead, GUSDA aims to expand its outreach through a membership drive, youth engagement, and enhanced transparency, ensuring continued contributions to charitable causes in Guyana. The Association remains grateful for the unwavering support from volunteers, donors, and event participants, whose contributions make their impactful work possible.