GFF establishes First Instance Body to strengthen Club Licensing Framework

Press Release from the Guyana Football Federation

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has officially announced the formation of its First Instance Body (FIB), an independent decision-making committee mandated to evaluate club licensing applications in accordance with Article 11 of the Concacaf Club Licensing Regulations.

This development marks a significant milestone in the GFF’s efforts to professionalise domestic football and ensure that clubs adhere to internationally recognised standards for operational, financial, and sporting excellence.

The establishment of the FIB aligns with the broader objectives of the Concacaf Club Licensing System, a regulatory framework launched in 2013 to raise the standards of football clubs across the region.

The system evaluates clubs based on six core criteria: sporting, infrastructure, personnel and administrative, legal, financial, and social responsibility.

Only licensed clubs are eligible to participate in Concacaf-sanctioned regional and international competitions, including the prestigious Concacaf Champions Cup.

The FIB is tasked with evaluating applications submitted by local clubs and determining whether they meet the minimum criteria for licensing.

This includes validating documents, assessing compliance, and rendering reasoned, impartial decisions.

The committee also plays a critical role in promoting transparency and accountability across the footballing landscape. Members of the newly appointed body will serve for a term of two years.

They are expected to maintain detailed records of all deliberations and decisions and submit reports to the GFF Club Licensing Manager for onward transmission to Concacaf. The FIB is not just a regulatory tool but a catalyst for growth and development within club football in Guyana.

The Federation believes the licensing process should be viewed as an opportunity for clubs to improve their internal structures, governance practices, and long term sustainability.

The GFF has appointed three distinguished professionals to serve as members of the First Instance Body:

Shellon Bess

Ms. Shellon Bess currently serves as the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health.

She brings a wealth of experience in governance, human resources, and administrative oversight, having led divisions responsible for personnel management and scholarship administration.

A meticulous and results-driven professional, Ms. Bess has also held roles in the education and private sectors, demonstrating adaptability and leadership across diverse environments.

Her academic qualifications include a Naster’s Degree in Business Administration – University of Bedfordshire; a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration – University of Guyana; an Associate Degree in Education – Cyril Potter College of Education; a Certificate in Industrial Relations and Social Studies – Critchlow Labour College and a Certificate in Small Business Management – IDCE.

Ms. Bess is known for her interpersonal acumen, effective communication, and ability to manage complex operations in both public and private institutions.

Julius Nathaniel David

Mr. Julius David is a respected educator and sports administrator, currently serving as a Lecturer II and Coordinator of the Agricultural Science Department at the Cyril Potter College of Education.

A native of Kuru Kuru, Mr. David has over two decades of experience in education, sports development, and youth engagement.

After beginning his career as a teacher, he earned his Trained Teacher Certificate, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

His commitment to sport led him to complete a programme in Sports Administration through the Guyana Olympic Association.

He has also served as a Programme Director at Al Sport and Tour Promotions, overseeing windball cricket activities in schools nationwide.

Mr. David has played an integral role in curriculum development, school sports coordination, and technical officiating.

He previously served as Acting Administrator for the NGO Generation Next and continues to work actively in shaping youth development initiatives.

His leadership philosophy is summed up in his life motto: “Where there is a will, there is a way.”

Lemar Williams

Mr. Lemar Williams is an Attorney at Law and the current Corporate Legal Officer I at Banks DIH Limited, one of Guyana’s leading corporate institutions.

He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from the University of the West Indies, where he also undertook specialized studies in Sports and Entertainment Law.

An advocate for youth development and civic engagement, Mr. Williams previously served as Chairperson of the Sports Committee at UWI, where he fostered greater student participation through inclusive athletic initiatives.

He is also a former Opposition Youth Parliamentarian and Maritime Debate Champion, known for his eloquence, critical thinking, and leadership capabilities.

In addition to his legal qualifications, Mr. Williams holds certifications in Legal Research, Information Technology, and Electrical Wiring and Installation, underscoring his interdisciplinary expertise.

Outside the courtroom, he is passionate about football, athletics, chess, and travel. Mr. Williams’ approach to leadership is grounded in integrity, service, and institutional development, values that will guide his contributions to the FIB.

The GFF, through its President Wayne Forde and the GFF Council, has extended its sincere appreciation to the members of the First Instance Body for stepping forward to serve football in this pivotal capacity.

The Federation reaffirmed its full support to the FIB, including access to all necessary training, documentation, and technical resources to facilitate the effective execution of their mandate.

The establishment of this body is a critical component of the GFF’s commitment to good governance and the long-term development of club football in Guyana.

As the local game continues to evolve, the First Instance Body will play a key role in ensuring that only clubs that meet the established standards are permitted to compete, thereby preserving the integrity of the sport and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.