Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, will host the National Awards Ceremony 2025 at the Winifred Atwell Auditorium, Queen’s Hall on Wednesday September 24th, 2025 at 6pm.
Awardees will be presented with medals in five categories:
1. The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in Gold only.
2. The Chaconia Medal in Gold, Silver and Bronze.
3. The Hummingbird Medal in Gold, Silver and Bronze.
4. The Public Service Medal of Merit in Gold, Silver and Bronze.
5. The Medal for the Development of Women in Gold, Silver and Bronze.
Please see below for the list of awardees, the sphere in which the award is given, and a short biography.
ORDER OF THE REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago may be awarded to any person (citizen as well as non-citizen) who has rendered distinguished and outstanding service to Trinidad and Tobago. It may be awarded posthumously, but a deceased recipient does not become a member of the Society. It shall be awarded only in Gold. The maximum number of awards in any one year shall be five (5).
Mr. Hochoy Charles (Posthumously) in the sphere of Politics: Mr. Hochoy Charles has rendered distinguished and outstanding service to Trinidad and Tobago mainly through his lifelong commitment to governance, community empowerment, and the advancement of Tobago. As a former Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly, he played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s structure. He has contributed to the island’s political and administrative landscape, advocating tirelessly for autonomy and equitable development. His leadership fostered stronger institutions, improved opportunities for Tobagonians, and advanced national dialogue on governance and democracy. Mr. Charles’ legacy is defined by service, advocacy, and an enduring contribution to the welfare and progress of Trinidad and Tobago.
Professor Selwyn Cudjoe (Professor Emeritus) in the sphere of Education: Professor Emeritus Selwyn Cudjoe has rendered over five decades of distinguished service to Trinidad and Tobago as an educator, and national leader. He contributed greatly to Africana Studies and Caribbean literary thought. As a literary scholar, cultural historian, and public intellectual, Professor Cudjoe has led the proverbial charge in decolonising the Caribbean’s intellectual tradition, primarily through the elevation and edification of the Afro-Caribbean voice. His body of work is as expansive as the volume of intellectuals whom he has impacted. Through his widely lauded monographs, essays, public lectures, newspaper columns, and contributions to academia as a Professor, he has woven together an intricate and deeply humanistic narrative of historic and contemporary Pan African resistance.
Professor Kenneth Ramchand (Professor Emeritus) in the sphere of Education: A previous recipient of the Chaconia Medal (Gold) (1996), Professor Kenneth Ramchand is a renowned lecturer, scholar and author from Trinidad and Tobago. He is best known for his contributions to Caribbean literature, particularly in the field of West Indian culture. Born in the 1930s at Edward Street, Bonasse Village, Cedros, he is considered a “real literary critic” who has authored and edited numerous publications in his field including “The West Indian Novel and Its Background” (1970), which is recognised for its transformative influence on the literature syllabus at the University of the West Indies.
THE CHACONIA MEDAL
The Chaconia Medal may be awarded to any person (citizen as well as non-citizen) who has performed long and meritorious service to Trinidad and Tobago tending to promote the national welfare or strengthen the community spirit. It may be awarded posthumously, but a deceased recipient does not become a member of the Society. It may be awarded in Gold, Silver or Bronze in accordance with the assessed value of the service rendered. The maximum number of awards in any one year shall be ten (10).
CHACONIA MEDAL GOLD:
Dr. Adesh Sirjusingh, (Director, Women’s Health, Ministry of Health) in the sphere of Healthcare: Dr. Adesh Sirjusingh is a distinguished obstetrician and gynecologist. He has worked in the public service for over 35 years and is currently the Director, Women’s Health at the Ministry of Health since May 2017. He has been the driving force to redesign healthcare for women and babies to develop maternal, perinatal, and neonatal health in Trinidad and Tobago. He has spearheaded the development of National Policies for public and private sectors such as – National Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy, National Breastfeeding Policy and the National Gender-Based Violence Clinical Guidelines and Policy.
Mr. Fazal Karim (Former Member of Parliament for Chaguanas East Constituency and former Senator and Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training) in the sphere of Education: Mr. Fazal Karim was a transformative leader in education and skills development in Trinidad and Tobago. Over four decades, he pioneered programmes bridging academic and vocational training, expanded access to higher education, and created national frameworks like the National Qualifications Framework and Caribbean Vocational Qualification. As Minister, CEO, Parliamentarian and Educator, he exemplified public service at its highest calling as he established training centres, introduced new fields such as aviation and energy, championed youth empowerment, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. Mr. Karim has left a legacy which lies in uplifting underserved communities and reshaping the nation’s human capital development.
CHACONIA MEDAL SILVER:
Mr. Kenny Phillips (Producer/Arranger/Engineer/Broadcaster/Media Executive) in the sphere of Arts & Culture: Mr. Kenny Phillips has dedicated over 40 years to strengthening and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago. He is a visionary producer, engineer, and entrepreneur who founded the KMP Music Lab and Publishing, producing landmark productions for top local and regional artists and elevating the sound of Calypso, Soca, Chutney, Gospel, and Steelpan. In 2004, he established WACK 90.1 FM and WACK.TV, the first radio and digital television station from San Fernando. Through his leadership roles as Vice-President of the Copyright Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago, and Acting President of the Recording Industry Association of Trinidad & Tobago, he has played a pivotal role in shaping policies to protecting intellectual property rights, and ensuring fair practices for artists and industry professionals across the nation.
Mr. Ernest “Che” Rodriguez (Filmmaker/Director/Producer Film,Media) in the sphere of Journalism: Mr. Ernest Che Rodriguez is a well-known Filmmaker, a revered veteran theatre practitioner and a Media/Communication Specialist with a fifty-three (53) year span of performance, experience and training. Mr. Rodriguez has combined his three (3) distinct areas of endeavors to give to the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the region an artistic treasure trove of some two thousand, five hundred mass media products, thirty-seven of which comprise feature films and documentaries, all of which he himself wrote, produced and directed for use in Public Broadcasting and Public Education.
Mr. Ivan Toolsie (Journalist) in the sphere of Film & Media: Mr. Ivan Toolsie is a distinguished journalist in Trinidad and Tobago with a career spanning several decades in print and broadcast media. As a respected media professional, his reporting has shaped public opinion, influenced civic discourse and brought critical social, political and cultural issues to the forefront of national attention. His work has influenced policymakers and decision-makers by shedding light on underreported issues affecting rural and underserved communities. Through his dedication to fair and balanced reporting, Mr. Toolsie helped build trust in local media, promoting media literacy and encouraging citizens to engage with national development processes.
THE HUMMINGBIRD MEDAL
The Humming Bird Medal may be awarded to any person (citizen as well as non-citizen) who has rendered loyal and devoted service beneficial to Trinidad and Tobago in any field of human endeavour or for gallantry or other humane action. It may be awarded posthumously, but a deceased recipient does not become a member of the Society. It may be awarded in Gold, Silver or Bronze in accordance with the assessed level of the service rendered. The maximum number of awards in any one year shall be fifteen (15).
HUMMINGBIRD MEDAL GOLD:
Mr. Garfield “Ras Shorty I” Blackman: (Posthumous) in the sphere of Arts & Culture: The late Garfield Blackman, widely known as Ras Shorty I, was a cultural pioneer who transformed Trinidad and Tobago’s musical identity. In the early 1970s, he created Soca music, blending calypso with Indian rhythms to produce a distinctly Trinidadian art form that fostered unity across ethnic lines. His innovation not only redefined Carnival and inspired generations of musicians but also strengthened cultural tourism and national pride. Through his music, Ras Shorty I promoted social change, uplifted communities, and left a legacy that continues to shape the creative industry and enrich the spirit of Trinidad and Tobago.
Mr. Leon “Smooth” Edwards (Professor in Practice of Music/ Steelpan Arranger) in the sphere of Arts & Culture: Leon “Smooth” Edwards has devoted over five decades to advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s culture through his transformative work and dedication to the progression of our national instrument- the steelpan. As the most decorated arranger in Panorama history, with 10 victories and 26 top-three finishes, he elevated the Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra to legendary status and brought immense national pride. Mr. Edwards is a pioneer as he introduced new sounds, mentored countless pannists, and served as an educator at the University of Trinidad & Tobago, developing curricula to preserve and grow the art form. Internationally, his performances and lectures promoted the steelpan’s global recognition. His lifelong service has strengthened cultural identity on a local and international stage.
Ms. Patricia Stollmeyer, (Retired) in the sphere of Community Service: Mrs. Patricia ‘Pat’ Stollmeyer has dedicated over four decades to voluntary service in the field of hospice and palliative care in Trinidad and Tobago. Her work began in 1983 at Trinidad’s first hospice and has since evolved to encompass both institutional and home-based care to support patients and their families. As co-founder of Vitas House Hospice, she played a pioneering role in establishing a facility that provides free, compassionate medical and nursing care to terminally ill patients. By training under global pioneers and sharing her expertise with local doctors, nurses, and caregivers, she has raised professional standards and inspired a new generation to pursue this vital field. Her advocacy and quiet dedication have left a lasting legacy, influencing national attitudes and policies around terminal care.
Mrs. Drupatee Ramgoonai-Persad, (Entertainer) in the sphere of Arts and Culture: Mrs. Drupatee Persad is a household name in the Caribbean. She has been very influential in the promotion of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture locally, regionally and internationally through her music. Mrs. Persad has broken cultural barriers as a renowned East Indian Female Entertainer who created and named the genre of Chutney Soca with her album ‘Chatnee Soca’. A true pioneer of the genre, she is widely regarded as the” Queen of Chutney Soca”.
Mr. Anil Bheem (Singer/Radio Announcer) in the sphere of Arts & Culture: A cultural icon, entertainer, producer and radio announcer, Anil Bheem was one of the country’s most recorded artistes. Coming from a family with a rich musical tradition, he started his musical career at a very young age. He preserved and popularized East Indian culture in Trinidad and Tobago by performing devotional and Chutney Soca music, mentoring young talent, and producing original songs. As decades-long radio presenter on 103.1FM, he promoted cultural expression connecting with diverse communities. His legacy includes nurturing upcoming artists, inspiring fans through his music, and enhancing national identity through cultural pride. His sudden passing in 2023 shocked the nation and left a significant void in the local music and media landscape.
Al-Haj Imam Ahamadh Ali Aziz (Imam) in the sphere of Culture: Haji Imam Ahamadh Ali Aziz is a past President of the Trinidad Muslim League (TML). During the 1960s he introduced inter-faith meetings and generally taught Islam. During his leadership in the mid- sixties the TML became an affiliate of the Ahmadiya Anjuman Ishaati-Islam of Lahore, Pakistan.
HUMMINGBIRD MEDAL SILVER:
Mr. Mtima Solwazi (General Manager, ROOTS Foundation) in the sphere of Arts & Culture: Mr. Mitma Solwazi has emerged as a change agent for youths of Trinidad and Tobago. Mr. Solwazi has spent more than two decades constructing a social movement that utilises spoken word poetry and oral traditions as cultural expressions. At a time when the young people of our country are facing violence, fractured identities and limited opportunities for authentic self-expression Mr. Solwazi has provided a platform to nurture young poets some of whom are mentors, educators and leaders. The ROOTS Foundation has also partnered with other youth organisations which demonstrate Mr. Solwazi’s commitment to embedding creative methodologies into institutions that often lack them.
HUMMINGBIRD MEDAL BRONZE:
Mr. Michael Wiggins (Facilities Attendant) in the sphere of Gallantry: Mr. Michael Wiggins, a facilities attendant, demonstrated an extraordinary display of courage when he sprang into action to save the lives of a few persons on the shores of Damian Bay in Blanchisseuse in September 2024. Drawing on his decade of experience in lifeguard training and working aboard fishing vessels, Mr. Wiggins selflessly entered the raging waters three times to rescue the endangered individuals. Recognising the need for greater water safety awareness, he has become an advocate for swimming education and rip current awareness. He is currently pursuing advanced lifesaving certification, determined to be better prepared should he ever find himself in a similar situation.
Mr. Terrance David (Labourer) in the sphere of Gallantry: Mr. Terrance David, together with Mr. Deshawn Hamilton, risked his life to save the life of another gentleman who was trapped in a vehicle that was in flames, due to a vehicular accident on the Beetham Highway in September 2024. Despite the instructions from authorities to keep a safe distance, they rescued the victim and carried him to safety. Mr. David was on his way to the market at the time. However, the selfless act displayed by both men serves as an inspiration to all and a reminder of the profound difference that ordinary individuals can make when they choose to act in extraordinary ways.
Mr. Akil Des Vignes (Electrician) in the sphere of Gallantry: Mr. Akil Des Vignes, is an electrician by profession and a true hero. What started off as a fun Sunday in July, 2025 with his children turned into a battle for life as Akil risked his life to save a four-year-old child who was clinging for his life from a Ferris Wheel at the Carousel Park, Movietowne, Port of Spain. With quick thinking and courage, Mr. Des Vignes selflessly rescued this child. His bravery highlights the strength and unity that exist within our communities and serves as an inspiration to us all.
Mr. Dashawn Hamilton (Market Vendor) in the sphere of Gallantry: Mr. Deshawn Hamilton together with Mr. Terrance David, risked his life to save the life of another gentleman who was trapped in a vehicle that was in flames due to a vehicular accident on the Beetham Highway in September 2024. Despite the instructions from the authorities to keep a safe distance he rescued the victim and carried him to safety. Mr. Hamilton was on his way to work at the time. His selfless act serves as an inspiration to all and a reminder of the profound difference that ordinary individuals can make when they choose to act in extraordinary ways.
THE PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL OF MERIT
The Medal of Merit may be awarded to citizens only for outstanding and meritorious service in the Public Services, the Defence and Protective Services or service with Statutory Bodies performing national functions. It may be awarded posthumously, but a deceased recipient does not become a member of the Society. It may be awarded in Gold, Silver or Bronze according to the length or merit of the services rendered. There is no limit to the number of awards in any one year.
MEDAL OF MERIT GOLD:
Dr. Colin Furlonge (Medical Practitioner) in the sphere of Healthcare: Dr. Colin Furlonge is a dermatologist who has served over thirty-four (34) years in the public service of Trinidad and Tobago. Eight of these years he spent serving as the country’s Chief Medical Officer. He founded and led the Medical Professionals Association of Trinidad & Tobago. During his career Dr. Furlonge also spent many years internationally serving in different capacities. He conducted research in London on the first HIV licensed drug, AZT. Dr. Furlonge lectured on HIV. and was able to set up the first genital skin clinic in STD services in the UK. Many of his publications include the determinants of gonorrhea infection among STD clinic attendees in Trinidad and Tobago.
Mr. Samraj Harripaul, SC (Attorney) in the sphere of Public Service: Mr. Samraj Harripaul S.C. was previously the Chairman of the Law Reform Commission of Trinidad and Tobago. At a time of increase in cyberattacks in companies, Mr. Harripaul played an integral role at the Office of the Attorney General in the preparation of a legislative package to replace the existing Computer Misuse Act, in the fight against cybercrime.
Master Sharlene Jaggernauth (Posthumous) in the sphere of Public Service: The late Master Sharlene Jaggernauth’s legal career was one renowned for an unwavering commitment to justice, specifically for children. During her tenure as the Head of the Legal Unit at the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, she passionately advocated for the rights of children, and shaped legislative reforms to safeguard the welfare of children. In 2021, she took her seat as Master in the Family Court of the Judiciary of Trinidad and Tobago, where she presided with fairness and compassion over matters of domestic violence, custody, and maintenance. Her legacy reflected a career dedicated to addressing the systemic challenges faced by women and girls, particularly those living with HIV in the Caribbean. She has truly left an impact on human rights and by extension national welfare.
Dr. Allen Sammy (Retired) in the sphere of Public Service: Dr. Allen Sammy has rendered over sixty years of dedicated service to Trinidad and Tobago. He has held key leadership positions, including Deputy Mayor of the San Fernando City Corporation and Chairman of the Penal/Debe Regional Corporation. In his role as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Land Settlement Agency, he was instrumental in shaping and implementing the National Policy on Squatting and Land Regularization. Beyond public service, Dr. Sammy has demonstrated a lifelong passion for sport, making significant contributions to the cricket fraternity, where he continues to mentor and nurture young talent.
Dr. Indira Rampersad (Lecturer) in the sphere of Education/Public Service: Dr. Indira Rampersad has over thirty-eight years of experience as an educator at both the secondary and tertiary levels and is currently a lecturer at the University of the West Indies. Dr. Rampersad served as a Commissioner of the Equal Opportunity Commission of Trinidad and Tobago and as Chairperson of the Financial Assistance Studies Unit at the Ministry of Tertiary Education. Her reputation as a Political Scientist is known throughout the Caribbean. Dr, Ranpersad’s role in her varied capacities as an outstanding Political Scientist, lecturer, writer/columnist, media commentator, researcher, trade unionist, Attorney-at-law and advocate have contributed significantly to national and regional development.
Mrs. Angela Sinaswee-Gervais (Posthumous) in the sphere of Public Service: The late Mrs. Angela Sinaswee-Gervais dedicated over three decades of distinguished service to the Public Service, rising from Administrative Cadet to Chief Personnel Officer. She exemplified herself as a visionary leader, modernized human resource management, pioneered education policies, and spearheaded initiatives such as the School Intervention Programme, ICT Five-Star Plan, and Education Policy Paper 2017–2022. As Permanent Secretary, she advanced infrastructure, youth development, and workforce readiness, while as the Chief Personnel Officer she fostered industrial peace and strengthened governance. Mrs. Sinaswee-Gervais was respected for her display of integrity, her mentorship, and innovation and her outstanding contributions transformed public administration and education, leaving a lasting legacy of national development.
MEDAL OF MERIT SILVER:
Ms. Andria Narinesingh (Public Servant) in the sphere of Public Service: Ms. Andria Narinesingh currently serves as the Chief of Protocol of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago attached to the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs. She spearheaded numerous state events of historic significance, including presidential inaugurations, state funerals, CARICOM summits, and royal visits. She has also served as Acting Consul General in Miami, advancing national interests, protecting citizens, and deepening diaspora engagement. While her duties often operate outside of the public eye, Ms. Narinesingh is renowned for her professionalism, integrity, leadership and flawless execution of her duties as she continues to uphold the dignity of state functions.
THE MEDAL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF WOMEN
The Medal for the Development of Women is awarded to any person for outstanding contribution to the development of women’s rights and issues. It may be awarded in Gold, Silver or Bronze in accordance with the assessed value of the service rendered. The maximum number of awards in any one year shall be ten (10).
MEDAL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF WOMEN SILVER:
Mrs. Sabrina Mowlah- Baksh, (General Manager, Coalition Against Domestic Violence) in the sphere of Development of Women: For over four decades Mrs. Sabrina Mowlah-Baksh has demonstrated commitment to advancing the rights, empowerment and development of women in Trinidad and Tobago. From 1986 to 1996, she served as Project Facilitator for Women and Youth with the Collaboration for Ecumenical Planning and Action in the Caribbean (CEPAC-Network). In this pioneering role, she was instrumental in building intergenerational and interfaith alliances to address the socioeconomic and spiritual needs of vulnerable communities, especially women. Her initiatives emphasized community participation, sustainable development, and gender-sensitive approaches to social transformation
Dr. Catherine Ali, (Social Activist) in the sphere of Community Service: Dr. Catherine Ali who was born in the United Kingdom, has been residing in Trinidad & Tobago for the past 60 sixty years. She holds a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Gender and Development Studies from The University of the West Indies, where her research and scholarship have significantly advanced understanding of gender, social justice, and development in Trinidad and Tobago. She is a Social Activist who is celebrated for her transformative approach to traumatic conflict in Trinidad and has bridged theory and practice, addressing critical issues such as gender equality, restorative justice, and community empowerment. Her research has significantly advanced understanding of gender, social justice, and development in Trinidad and Tobago, laying a foundation for the next generation.
Archbishop Barbara Burke (Archbishop) in the sphere of Community Service: Archbishop Barbara Burke served as the head of the Spiritual Shouter Baptist Church and the then largely male dominated Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) of Trinidad and Tobago. Over the past decades, she was instrumental locally in advocating for legitimacy and respect for the Orisa Faith as a religious entity and in fighting for the approval of a public holiday to recognize the Spiritual Shouter Baptist community. She did this while serving as a temporary senator under two separate administrations. She has been a dedicated advocate for her community with focus on issues such as social justice, healthcare and education. She holds certificates in the areas of Business Management and Women in Development, and is a living example of what women can aspire to become, regardless of societal, religious and gender norms.