The IIC mentioned above has identified an unexpected benefit related to their programming and hiring practices, which gives some preference to applicants from local indigenous communities. What IIC has observed is that in addition to individual benefits related directly to their programme involvement, a meaningful number of these former staff and students have subsequently gone on to influential positions in their communities. With such relationships between the centre and nearby community leaders established over time, IIC is in a very good position to support broad and powerful community-based ESD within traditional channels. This programme has drawn participants from school-based eco-clubs which are common in the country, and is part of a tiered approach to ECHO’s work with communities that also includes the establishment of eco-teams involving adults and community leaders to support student and youth activities (Kaieteur News 2010).