A creative pursuit that began during the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into an award-winning business for Julia Gomes Persaud.

Her handmade honey candle recently earned her business, Our Village Shop, the Best Innovative Product award at HoneyFest 2026.

What started as a way to occupy her time while confined at home soon developed into a passion for creating unique, handcrafted products.

With the encouragement and support of her daughter and niece, Julia began experimenting with different ideas, gradually turning her interest in handmade creations into a small business.

Today, Our Village Shop offers a range of products, including scented candles, soaps and other handcrafted items.

Persaud said the business reached a significant milestone at HoneyFest 2026, when its Honey Candle was recognised for its innovation and creativity.

She said the product was developed to combine creativity with natural ingredients.

“Creating the Honey Candle was a way for us to bring creativity and natural ingredients together. We wanted to make something unique that not only looks beautiful but also highlights the benefits of using beeswax,” she said.

Persaud explained that beeswax is a natural alternative to conventional candle wax, known for its longer burning time and clean-burning properties.

“We love incorporating natural materials into our products and creating something special with them. Winning Best Innovative Product is truly an honour, and it means so much to see our creativity recognised,” she added.

Persaud expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) for providing a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products, promote innovation and gain recognition.

Persaud noted that As Our Village Shop continues to develop it remains committed to creating products with care and creativity, guided by the brand’s motto, “Handmade with Love.”

Julia Gomes Persaud