Here is a list of all the First Ladies of Guyana since the country gained independence in 1966. The role of the First Lady in Guyana typically involves public service, advocacy, charitable work, and support for the President’s social and national initiatives.
All First Ladies of Guyana (1966–Present)
1. Viola Burnham (First Lady: 1966–1985)
- Wife of President Forbes Burnham, Guyana’s first Executive President.
- Served as First Lady from 1966 to 1985.
- Later became Vice President and Minister of Education.
- A powerful political figure in her own right.
2. Doreen Chung (First Lady: 1980–1985)
- Wife of President Arthur Chung, Guyana’s first ceremonial President (1970–1980).
- Served during his term when Guyana was a republic with a ceremonial head of state.
- Known for grace and public dignity.
3. Joyce Hoyte (First Lady: 1985–1992)
- Wife of President Hugh Desmond Hoyte.
- Played a quiet but dignified role during her husband’s presidency.
- Involved in charitable and social causes.
4. Janet Jagan (First Lady: 1992–1997)
- Wife of President Dr. Cheddi Jagan.
- An American-born political activist and long-time figure in Guyanese politics.
- After her husband’s death, she became President of Guyana (1997–1999) – the first female President of Guyana and in the Western Hemisphere.
5. Varshnie Singh (First Lady: 1999–2007)
- Former wife of President Bharrat Jagdeo.
- Focused on health, education, and children’s charities.
- Founded the Kids First Fund.
- Notably outspoken on social issues.
6. Deolatchmee Ramotar (First Lady: 2011–2015)
- Wife of President Donald Ramotar.
- Retired nurse and midwife.
- Promoted health and women’s empowerment during her tenure.
7. Sandra Granger (First Lady: 2015–2020)
- Wife of President David Granger.
- Known for her work in women’s development, youth skills training, and IT literacy programs.
- Advocated against domestic violence and child abuse.
8. Arya Ali (First Lady: 2020–Present)
- Wife of President Dr. Irfaan Ali.
- Active in social development through the Office of the First Lady.
- Focuses on sustainability, mental health, women’s empowerment, and beautification of public spaces.
Summary Table
| First Lady | President (Spouse) | Term as First Lady |
|---|---|---|
| Viola Burnham | Forbes Burnham | 1966–1985 |
| Doreen Chung | Arthur Chung | 1970–1980 (ceremonial) |
| Joyce Hoyte | Hugh Desmond Hoyte | 1985–1992 |
| Janet Jagan | Cheddi Jagan | 1992–1997 |
| Varshnie Singh | Bharrat Jagdeo | 1999–2007 |
| Deolatchmee Ramotar | Donald Ramotar | 2011–2015 |
| Sandra Granger | David Granger | 2015–2020 |
| Arya Ali | Irfaan Ali | 2020–present |
