Iwokrama Interns and Volunteers Programme

The Interns and Volunteers programme continues to provide opportunities for persons to gain practical experience in the area of sustainable forest management. In the six years since its inception the Centre has had the opportunity and privilege of integrating some fifty (50) Interns and Volunteers into its work programmes.

The Interns and Volunteers programme also promote a greater understanding of the problems, challenges and opportunities relating to the conservation and development of tropical rain forests and to provide opportunities for learning how Iwokrama is involved in addressing these whilst strengthen linkages with stakeholders and develop ambassadors of good will.

“My experience with the Iwokrama International Centre could really not have been better.  I enjoyed every moment.  From hiking in the field of the Iwokrama Forest, to visiting the villages with the Iwokrama staff, or sporting it up with them, it has been a life changing event.  If only I could put it into words.  Well, I guess I will try here.  I definitely learned a lot.  My project of assessing the trails as a tourism product and their risks taught me a lot in my field of interest at an international perspective, and it will help me time and time again.  More importantly, I think, is my everyday interaction while living here in the interior of Guyana that has given me an entirely different perspective on life.  I will take this back home to share with the highest regards with my family, friends, and professors.  I too hope that I was able to give back a part of my perspectives to the Iwokrama International Centre and Guyana for which they will be able to gain from.”   Benjamin Bishop,  University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point GEM Student Ambassador Program - sponsored Intern July 8th to August 24th, 2005

The Centre receives a number of enquiries from persons across the world to volunteer or work as Interns with the Centre. In the first quarter of the year 2006, the Centre welcomed the Guyana Marine Turtle Conservation Society (GMTCS) Sponsored Intern Lennox Boyer, who joined the Iwokrama Programme from the 23rd January 2006 and would be carrying out a series of internships throughout the year. Lennox, who is currently a resident in Waini, Region 1, was exposed to the duties of the Iwokrama Forest Rangers and was under the guidance of Iwokrama’s River Monitoring Coordinator, Forest Ranger Michael DeMendonca. He assisted in River Patrols, Phenology transects, Road Patrols, Ranger Stations Check points, and Ranger Station and Road Corridor maintenance.

We would like to extend a heartily thank you to Lennox for his dedication, hard work and enthusiasm!