Sometimes, the most powerful voices come from those who carry multiple worlds within them. Donelle Harvey, contestant number 2 in the Miss Guyana Culture Queen Pageant, is living proof that heritage isn’t just about where you’re from, it’s about how you use the gifts of your ancestry to lift others up.
Born with ties to both Guyana and Barbados, Donelle’s story is one of cultural richness that has shaped her into a passionate advocate for unity, representation, and change. From the historically significant grounds of Tuschen, once a Dutch sugar plantation, now a thriving residential community, to the rhythm-filled shores of Barbados, her journey spans islands, cultures, and dreams.
Picture this: the power goes out in Tuschen, and while others might grumble about the inconvenience, the Harvey household transforms darkness into magic. “Time for a story,” her mother would say, and suddenly three sisters would gather on the front steps under moonlight, ready to be transported into the world of Anansi the trickster spider and Ole Higue’s warnings.
These weren’t just bedtime stories, they were cultural treasures being passed down, lessons wrapped in folklore, history preserved in the voices of elders. “The stories weren’t just entertainment, they were lessons, traditions, pieces of history wrapped up in moonlight and memory,” Donelle recalls.
It’s in these childhood memories that we see the foundation of who Donelle would become, someone who understands that culture lives not in books or museums, but in the sharing, the telling, the passing down of wisdom from one generation to the next.
Growing up with roots in both Guyana and Barbados gave Donelle something special, a dual perspective on Caribbean culture that deepened her appreciation for the region’s diversity. In Barbados, she was surrounded by the sounds of soca and calypso, the warmth of island hospitality, and a deep pride in tradition. These experiences taught her “the importance of joy and togetherness,” lessons that would prove invaluable in her future advocacy work.
Back in Guyana, she witnessed the beautiful tapestry of a nation where different ethnic backgrounds don’t just coexist, they celebrate each other. Whether it’s the colourful vibrancy of Mashramani, the unity seen during Diwali and Eid, or the shared love of a perfectly cooked pepperpot, Donelle learned that true strength comes from inclusivity and shared heritage.
This multicultural upbringing didn’t just give her stories to tell, it gave her a mission. “I carry the lessons of both countries with me, and I strive to use my voice to honoUr the traditions that have shaped my journey,” she explains. It’s a responsibility she doesn’t take lightly. 
Currently pursuing a degree in Sociology at the University of Guyana, with additional background in Communication Studies and International Relations, Donelle is building the academic foundation to support her passion for advocacy. But this isn’t just about earning degrees, it’s about understanding the world well enough to change it.
Her studies have given her the tools to analyze social structures, communicate effectively across cultures, and understand how global dynamics affect local communities. “My education has profoundly shaped the way I see the world,” she reflects, “giving me the ability to approach issues with empathy and a critical lens.”
This academic foundation fuels her career aspirations in media, diplomacy, social policy, and advocacy. She dreams of working in spaces where she can “contribute to social change, foster meaningful discussions, and advocate for marginalized communities.” It’s not about personal success, it’s about using her voice to “spark important conversations and influence positive change.”
When Donelle decided to compete for Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2025, it wasn’t about seeking a crown, it was about claiming a platform. “My inspiration came from a deep desire to celebrate and showcase the rich heritage of Guyana,” she explains. For her, this competition represents an opportunity to “uplift traditions, history, and the vibrant spirit of the people.”
Learning she’d made it as a finalist brought “an overwhelming mixture of excitement, gratitude, and validation.” But beyond the personal achievement, she recognizes the deeper responsibility: “It’s about carrying the voices, stories, and dreams of the people who have shaped me.”
The prospect of potentially representing Guyana on the regional stage fills her with purpose. “It would mean carrying the spirit of ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’ beyond borders,” she explains, “demonstrating the resilience, diversity, and talent that define Guyanese people.”
As contestant number 2, Donelle appreciates the opportunity to “step onto the stage early and make an unforgettable first impression.” But what she’s most excited about isn’t the competition itself, it’s the transformation, the connections, and the opportunity to advocate for meaningful change.
Her message to Guyana before the competition is one of unity and possibility: “No dream is too big and no goal is out of reach when pursued with determination.” She reminds her fellow Guyanese that this competition “is not just about one individual. It’s about showcasing the beauty, strength, and brilliance of Guyanese culture on a grand stage.”
Most importantly, she encourages everyone to “support and uplift one another. A strong, united community is what truly makes a nation shine.”
When asked what she wants people to remember about her, regardless of the outcome, Donelle’s answer is beautifully simple: “That I was authentically me.”
As coronation night approaches, Donelle Harvey stands ready, not just to compete, but to continue the work she’s already begun: being a bridge between worlds, a voice for the voiceless, and an authentic representation of what it means to carry your heritage with pride while reaching for a better future.
In her own words, “Guyana’s spirit will always be a winner.” And in Donelle Harvey, that spirit has found a worthy ambassador.