In the tight-knit community of Melanie Damishana on Guyana’s East Coast, where almost everyone is related “in some way or the other,” Shadiamond Assanah learned her most valuable lessons about unity, tradition, and the power of cultural fusion. Now, as Contestant #7 in the Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2025 pageant, she’s ready to take those lessons from her beloved hometown to the national stage.
“In this community, everyone knows each other and when it comes to celebrating events we all come together to enjoy each other’s presence,” Shadiamond reflects warmly about Melanie. It’s this sense of unity that shaped her understanding of what it truly means to be Guyanese, a lesson that began in childhood and continues to guide her today.
Her most cherished memories paint a vivid picture of Guyana’s cultural diversity in action. During Phagwah and Diwali, her school bus driver would ensure all the children from Melanie came together to celebrate, taking them to watch the motorcade on the seawall. “It was always fun and as I grew it made me deeply appreciate our diversity,” she recalls.
At just three years old, Shadiamond began her journey with dance, a passion that would become her pathway to deeper cultural understanding. From the National School of Dance to her current role with Joro Dance School, she has performed at numerous national events, each opportunity allowing her to “network with Guyanese from different races and cultures.”
“As someone who’s been dancing since the age of 3, the national school of dance teachers has always ensured the dancers were engaged in cultural dances for different events,” she explains. Through dance, she discovered what she calls “the fusion of our Guyanese culture”, the beautiful blending of foods, music, clothing, and celebrations that represents the nation’s unique cultural identity.
Even within her own family, this cultural fusion is celebrated. Despite being “one of blended races,” they maintain traditions that keep them “grounded and connected,” including the practice of Queh-Queh before weddings, a tradition that transcends racial boundaries and speaks to the heart of Guyanese unity.
While dance feeds her soul, Shadiamond’s professional aspirations lie in healing. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Rehabilitation at the University of Guyana, following her Associate’s degree in Biology, she has her sights set on becoming not just a physical therapist, but a doctor in physiotherapy.
“Healing isn’t just my career path, it’s my passion,” she states with conviction. Her academic journey, which includes 11 CSEC subjects with seven Grade 1s and four Grade 2s, reflects her dedication to excellence, but it’s her vision for the future that truly sets her apart.
Her educational pursuits have shaped more than her career path; they’ve given her “global awareness and critical thinking” that continuously inspires her “to advocate for pressing issues.” This academic foundation supports her pageant preparation as she maintains a disciplined schedule that balances studies with competition prep.
Shadiamond’s entry into Miss Guyana Culture Queen wasn’t spontaneous. As a pageant enthusiast who has followed the competition since its inception, she was encouraged by many to apply. But her decision came from something deeper: “I believe in the power of culture to transform and as a patriotic Guyanese, I’m passionate about celebrating my roots.”
If crowned, her focus would be clear: “tackling youth unemployment and preserving our culture through education by implementing and supporting youth-led initiatives.” It’s a vision that combines her understanding of community needs with her belief that cultural preservation and economic development go hand in hand.
The pressure of following two consecutive Miss Caribbean Culture Queen winners doesn’t intimidate Shadiamond, it motivates her. “It shows the authenticity of our Guyanese representatives,” she says. “I see it as a challenge to carry on that legacy but once given the opportunity I will do it with pride.”
Her competition number, 7, holds special significance. “In both pageants I’ve entered previously I’ve been the last contestant which was either number 7 or 8. I’m super grateful to be number 7, especially because I prayed for it. Saves the best for last.”
As coronation night approaches on June 21st, Shadiamond’s message to Guyana is both simple and profound: “Your culture is your power and strength so embrace it fully.” It’s a message that comes from someone who has lived the beauty of cultural diversity in her own community and seen how unity can transcend differences.
“To me, ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’ means our greatest strength as Guyanese is our unity,” she reflects. “It’s a reminder to portray togetherness and inclusivity in everything we do.”
Whether she wins the crown or not, Shadiamond wants to be remembered as “the young woman who stood for something meaningful. Driven with passion and represents my home Guyana, with purpose.”
From the community celebrations of Melanie Damishana to the grand stage of the National Cultural Center, Shadiamond Assanah carries with her the lessons of unity, the beauty of cultural fusion, and a deep commitment to lifting others through healing and opportunity. In her journey, we see not just a contestant, but a young woman whose roots run deep and whose dreams reach high, embodying the very best of what it means to be Guyanese.
As she prepares to take the stage as Contestant #7, Shadiamond knows that win or lose, she’s already carrying forward the legacy of her community and her culture, one dance step and one healing touch at a time.