CineGuyana, formed in November 2010 as a project to kick start the filmmaking industry in Guyana has officially incorporated and elected their first Board of Directors.
An initiative of the University of Guyana Centre for Communication Studies, Ohio University and The President’s Film Endowment Project, CineGuyana had originally received a grant of US$50,000 from former president Bharrat Jagdeo and has produced eleven short films thus far. The first eight films were showcased around Guyana, parts of the Caribbean and the United States, and the UK. Films were also entered into film festivals around the world.
Newly elected President Phillip Williams says the organisation will be working a full featured movie this year and is hoping to partner with both public and private sector to explore monetizing through product placement in the films.
“I also think it’s important that our story line continue to push national unity. No one else can tell Guyana’s story and the rich cultural heritage like Guyanese Is we own. We experiencing it every day. The magic is that Guyanese all over the world can relate when they see these films.” said Williams
The board of directors also include former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr Paloma Mohamed, veteran in broadcasting and performing arts Margaret Lawerence, famed music producer and owner of Kross Kolor Studios Burchmore Simon, singer and songwriter Charmaine Blackman-Alves, filmmaker and photographer Kojo McPherson, Denise Harris, Mosa Telford and Shundel Phillips. An official launch is expected where the board will present their vision for the organisation and the film -making industry in Guyana.