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Viola BurnhamGuyanese politician, wife of Guyana's President Forbes Burnham
Date of Birth: 26.11.1930
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Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Marriage and Political Involvement
- First Lady and Government Leadership
- Parliamentary and Diplomatic Career
- International Recognition
Early Life and Education
Violeta Burnham was born into a large family in Guyana. With the support of a government scholarship, she pursued a Bachelor's degree at the University College of Leicester in the United Kingdom, graduating with honors. She later earned a Master's degree in Education from the University of Chicago in the United States.
Marriage and Political Involvement
In 1967, Violeta married Forbes Burnham, leader and founder of the People's National Congress (PNC) and Guyana's first Prime Minister. They had two daughters together. Violeta became an active member of the PNC, playing a significant role in women's rights advocacy.
First Lady and Government Leadership
As Forbes Burnham's wife, Violeta served as First Lady of Guyana from 1980 to 1985. She continued her work in women's empowerment, launching economic projects focused on education and employment for women.
After Forbes Burnham's death, Violeta was appointed Deputy Prime Minister in Desmond Hoyte's cabinet. She subsequently became Vice President, overseeing education, social, and cultural development in the country. She was a vocal advocate for gender equality in all spheres of governance.
Parliamentary and Diplomatic Career
In December 1985, Violeta was elected to the National Assembly of Guyana. She resigned from Parliament and the cabinet in October 1991.
Beyond Guyana, Violeta was a founding member and First Vice President of the Caribbean Women's Association (CARIWA). She led Guyanese delegations to CARIWA conferences in St. Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago.
International Recognition
Violeta's contributions to women's development in Guyana were recognized with the Cacique Crown of Honor, Guyana's second-highest national award, in 1984. She also received honors from Guinea, North Korea, and Bulgaria.
