Alicia Bess Anderson, Advisor for ExxonMobil Guyana, highlighted the profound impact of the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) during a recent episode of the Energy Perspectives Podcast. This initiative, a collaboration between Stabroek Block co-venturers Exxon, Hess and CNOOC, aims to bolster Guyana’s economic development with a US$100 million investment over ten years.
Anderson, who joined ExxonMobil in 2021, discussed her journey in the energy sector and her current role leading the initiative. “I started out as a human resource representative for Guyana, Trinidad and the Caribbean, for one of the prime contractors,” she said. “Then I was employed as a workforce development advisor… helping to leverage the development of our local workforce through initiatives and programs in support, primarily, of the offshore population on the floating, production storage and offloading vessels.”
GGI is focused on capacity building across various sectors. Anderson outlined several key projects, including partnerships with the University of Guyana, to enhance technical education and support STEM initiatives.
“We have several programs there, infrastructure developments as well as just overall aspect to enhance the technical field,” she said. GGI also supports the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) space, improving programs in electrical and welding disciplines.
Moreover, Anderson emphasized the importance of diversity in the projects, mentioning efforts in hydroponics and poultry rearing that align with Guyana’s 2025 food security goals. A notable success is the Center for Local Business Development (CLBD), which aids in supplier capacity building and entrepreneurship. “Our projects are widespread, or I should say, really embraced to ensure that every element of Guyana is covered,” Anderson remarked.
“Look to our women population” – CLBD Director urges, to bridge 53,000 skilled worker gap
GGI also focuses on empowering women in the oil and gas industry. Anderson explained, “All of our projects have female beneficiaries.”
She highlighted the AccelerateHer project through the CLBD, which offers female entrepreneurs training in safety, finance, leadership, and mentorship. “It’s about ensuring that females are given the support to not only leverage the growth of their business but leverage the growth of their personal self,” she added.
Addressing the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry, Anderson acknowledged the barriers but noted significant progress. “I’ve really seen aspects of the glass ceiling being broken and basically barriers being removed,” she said. She also shared her personal experiences in the sector, stressing the importance of time management, networking, and a strong support system.
Women represent 52% of Exxon’s workforce in Guyana
Anderson offered advice to other women balancing career and family life: “Think big. If you can dream it, you can achieve it… Step out of your comfort zone. And remember that you’re not just doing this for yourself, but for the benefit of your little ones, and your family, overall.”
The Stabroek Block co-venturers have set a very high bar for investments in social projects. GGI was launched in 2021 – a GY$20 billion (US$100 million) commitment to programs aimed at expanding capacity building and sustainable development in Guyana.
