For Rajendra Debah

1978 - 2026

Raj Debah made art in the name of joy and truth. He was a director, writer, photographer, and DJ. A loyal husband, brother, son, and friend. His presence grounded every room he entered, and his knowing smile was the quiet, steady comfort for so many who loved him. Raj was one of one—a legend forever.

His work centered stories the world had lost, overlooked, or never told; from Beyond Greenwood, his Webby-nominated film, to Berbice, intimate photographs of his Guyana, along with multimedia exhibitions, print projects, and work for Supreme, Levi’s, and Patta. He was a founder and builder with a wellspring of ideas. His interests and record collection ran deep, rare, and very, very good – just like him.

Raj died suddenly on October 24, 2026. He leaves behind his wife and closest collaborator, Shaniqwa Jarvis, a community of friends and comrades who adored him, and a body of work with much left unrealized—scripts and adaptations in development, films taking shape, an archive of unseen photographs, shows yet to be mounted. Raj had so much more to say.

Now Shaniqwa, Raj’s conspirator and muse of nearly two decades, is called to carry his work forward—and needs the resources to do so. Your gift will help shepherd his creative projects, giving Shaniqwa the space and time to recalibrate, transmute, preserve, and bring forth his and their shared dreams.

A memorial exhibition and celebration of life is currently being planned. Its format will reflect Raj’s approach to life. It will be designed to travel and grow wings, holding the door open to life’s possibilities. Development, archival, legal, and production costs shouldn’t stand between Raj’s best work and the world he left too soon.

Raj spent his life building and fostering community, making sure the people around him could shine, dance, and thrive. May we continue this legacy and spread his love in return.

In gratitude for your support,