Guyana American Heritage Foundation hosts Brooklyn dance to celebrate Guyana’s 55th Republic Anniversary

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The Guyana American Heritage Foundation Inc. (GAHF), a 501c(3) non-profit founded in 2001 by Lady Ira Lewis in New Jersey to promote and create awareness of Guyanese culture in the diaspora, will celebrate Guyana’s 55th Republic Anniversary with a Mash Dance on Saturday, Feb. 22.

According to Lady Ira, an iconic supporter of the arts and promoter of educational programs, the shindig, which will be held at Woodbine Ballroom, 2281 Church Ave. in Brooklyn, from 8 p.m., will feature popular cultural ambassadors DJ Flexx, King Aquarius, David—One Man Band, and special guest Jungle.

Under Guyana’s 2025 commemoration theme; Expressing our Culture and Creativity as One Guyana,” GAHF welcomes all nationals and friends to the community event to commemorate the South American country that became a democratic Republic on Feb. 23, 1970.

Lewis, who is passionate about community empowerment in Guyana and the United States and has raised the country’s Golden Arrowhead flag over New Jersey City Hall to observe Guyana’s Independence for many years, will once again host the event on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Additionally, Lewis will continue the Caribbean Family Fun Day committee, which presents Guyana Day, the largest outdoor event at Monte Irving Park, on July 13. This event attracts thousands of nationals from as far away as New York and elected officials, including Senator Brintee Timberlake of Legislative District 34, for a massive summer day of athletics, live performances, and giveaways.

Lewis, an altruistic lady who has received numerous accolades for her boundless contributions, was recently presented with the Sidney Ramey Films Ministry of Jesus Church of Deliverance Humanitarian Award and a Resolution from the City of Newark Municipal Council. She told Caribbean Life that hosting the Mash Dance is a reminder of how important it is to keep Guyana’s culture alive in North America.

“I Love my country. If you look at all my media platforms, you will see how well I promote Guyana and our multicultural heritage. It is right that nationals never forget where they come from and their cultural heritage.

“Mashramani, which means to celebrate after a hard day’s work and observed as a part of our Republic anniversary, is an immense celebration back home; as such, we should not lose sight of its importance,” said Lady Ira.

Some of the sponsors include Sisters Helping Sisters, PSEG, Exit Platinum Realty, Sheefa Pharmacy, Doris, The Hills Restaurant, and the Guyana American Heritage Foundation. Partial proceeds go towards promoting the community’s cultural programs.

To purchase early bird tickets, use CASHAPP & ZELLE #973-951-9898. Tickets could also be purchased at The Hills Restaurant, 4706 Church Ave., Brooklyn. 718-856-5501.