GUSDA Celebrates Diaspora Excellence at Annual Folk Festival Awards Ceremony

The Guyana (UK) Kwe Kwe Group receiving the inaugural John David Memorial Award for outstanding contribution in promoting Guyanese culture in the UK

On Saturday 25th May, the Guyana UK Social Development Association (GUSDA) held its highly anticipated Awards Ceremony during the Annual Folk Festival at Norbury High School for Girls in Thornton Heath. The event was graced by His Excellency Dr Rajendra Singh, High Commissioner of Guyana to the UK, who presented the awards and paid tribute to the outstanding individuals honoured this year.

Reintroduced in 2023, the GUSDA Awards recognise exceptional contributions and service within the Guyanese diaspora. This year’s celebration shone a spotlight on community pioneers, cultural custodians, and inspiring youth who exemplify excellence and dedication.

A special moment was the formal presentation of the 2024 GUSDA Diaspora Award to June Givanni, an internationally renowned film curator, for her unparalleled contributions to Pan-African cinema. June, a recent recipient of the 2024 BAFTA Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award, was celebrated for decades of work championing African and Caribbean film globally.

The 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Sybil Phoenix MBE, a trailblazing advocate for community development and youth welfare, whose legacy includes fostering over 100 children and founding key institutions like the Moonshot Centre. Although Sybil could not attend in person, her son Woodrow accepted the award on her behalf.

Reverend Canon Emeritus Ivelaw Bowman received the Award of Excellence for his lifelong service as a civil servant, spiritual leader, and advocate for vulnerable communities in both Guyana and the UK.

The Diaspora Heritage Award went to Guyana SPEAKS, co-founded by Rod Westmaas and Dr Juanita Cox, for their tireless efforts in preserving and promoting Guyanese culture through talks, tours, and immersive community events since 2017.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Youth Achievement Award to the talented 14-year-old, Xavier Alexander. From tech innovation to the arts and youth mentorship, Xavier was recognised for his remarkable accomplishments and community spirit.

Finally, the inaugural John David Memorial Award—honouring contributions to Guyanese culture—was presented to the Guyana (UK) Kwe Kwe Group, led by Dr Michelle Yaa Asantewa, for their dynamic efforts in keeping the Kwe Kwe tradition alive across the UK.

The event concluded with heartfelt applause for all awardees. As GUSDA continues to uplift and celebrate our community, this year’s ceremony affirmed the power of heritage, service, and unity in action. Meet the 2025 GUSDA Diaspora Awardees here!