For some, the upcoming Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo (GEC&SCE) might seem like an event only for the “elite”—the suits and ties, the corporate personage. But whether you’re crunching numbers, tilling the earth, laying blocks, installing pipes, or selling food from a mobile kitchen, the GEC&SCE truly has something for everyone, no matter your livelihood. Yes, this major event, scheduled for February 18th to 21st, 2025, aims to redefine inclusivity and impact in the Caribbean energy landscape, promising opportunities for every participant.
According to Kiana Wilburg, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the conference, the 2025 expo will have something for everyone, making it a dynamic gathering that transcends traditional energy-sector events.
Asked why Guyana should be excited about this event, Wilburg replied, “What’s not to be excited about?’. Indeed, the region’s top leaders in government and varying industries will be at the conference and will provide a golden opportunity for everyone to market their company, skills and offerings. But beyond the exposure, participants can learn about the opportunities that are available for recruitment and investment.
“Let’s face it, not many Guyanese understand the importance of this. At face value, some may say that the target audience is only for the top tier companies or it’s just about energy. Nothing could be further from the truth. The conference holds key take-aways for Guyanese from all walks. As a result of our commitment to ensuring that locals benefit extensively from what we do, we have diversified our offerings for the 2025 edition of our conference,” the CEO said.
She told the Guyana Standard that the event, for the first time, will have a Conference Village at the Kingstown Esplanade. That area, the CEO said, will showcase farmers’ produce in new and traditional crops.
“Alongside them will be our arts and craft vendors too. They will be able to participate free of cost, and 100 percent of their earnings is theirs to keep,” Wilburg revealed.
Taste of Guyana
Another new feature on the horizon is GEC&SCE’s “Taste of Guyana Event” which will feature approximately 30 vendors along the Main Street area. “This is expected to give Guyanese a truly authentic culinary experience featuring traditional seven-curry, scrumptious egg balls with ‘spicylicious’ sour, mixed meat cook-up, warm coconut pone and other delightful pastries that are part of our Guyanese heritage,” an excited Wilburg said.
The CEO noted that these other initiatives offer Guyanese a number of new experiences next year as both delegate and visitor.
“I urge you all, if you cannot afford to participate as a delegate, at the very least, relish the other aspects of our conference, including viewing the Exhibitors’ Auditorium for just $1000 for the first three days. Even if you are not able to afford that, it is absolutely free on the last day of conference, February 21st, 2025.
Guyana Standard was informed the auditoria will feature over 180 booths with some of the biggest names in the industry such as ExxonMobil Guyana Limited and their subcontractors, other major players across the health, education, construction, financial services and over 15 other industries. Also present will be several government agencies such as the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of Public Works, the Guyana Revenue Authority, the Guyana Office for Investment and the Board of Industrial Training.
Wilburg is urging prospective attendees to seek out these companies and agencies and learn as much as humanly possible about procurement and recruitment opportunities.
