Raj Ishmael on Guyanese Leadership in Schenectady

As part of Guyana’s 60th Independence celebrations, we spoke with Raj Ishmael, Schenectady County Legislator for District 2, following the city’s historic Guyana flag-raising ceremony. In this conversation, Raj reflects on the growth of the Guyanese community in Schenectady, the importance of civic engagement, and the role immigrants and their children continue to play in strengthening the communities they call home. He also shares a message of encouragement for future generations: carry your heritage with pride, contribute to the communities you enter, and never underestimate what is possible. This interview is part of After the Makers, a series by The Corriverton Co. exploring identity, leadership, belonging, and the experiences of Guyanese people across the diaspora. Berbice Peace® 🇬🇾 The Corriverton Co. https://thecorrivertonco.com/2026/06/... #AfterTheMakers #GuyanesePeople #Guyana60 #GuyaneseDiaspora #Schenectady