The Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) extends its warmest congratulations to five veteran media practitioners who have been recognised with national awards for their decades of service to Trinidad and Tobago.
Former Trinidad Express Editor-in-Chief Omatie Lyder, former Political Editor Ria Taitt, photojournalist Andrea De Silva and veteran journalist Jai Parasram were each awarded the Chaconia Medal (Silver), while veteran broadcaster Sadhruddin “Sadro” Mohammed was awarded the Hummingbird Medal (Gold), posthumously.
For Lyder and Taitt in particular, the honour recognises careers that have become deeply woven into the history of the Trinidad Express and journalism in this country. There is, in many ways, no Trinidad Express without Omatie and Ria. Their names have been synonymous with the newspaper for decades. Lyder spent 43 years at the Express, including 15 years as Editor-in-Chief, while Taitt spent 42 years in journalism, including approximately two decades as Political Editor.
Their work has informed generations of readers and helped shape the standards of journalism in Trinidad and Tobago. MATT also seconds Lyder’s reflections on journalism as “public service” and where “the business models may change,” the public’s need for “credible, responsible journalism” must remain. That principle remains as relevant today as it has throughout the careers of these media practitioners.
Taitt’s decades of political and parliamentary reporting have given the public a deeper understanding of the institutions and people shaping the country. Her career has also reflected the value of experience, mentorship and the pursuit of knowledge that comes with a life in journalism.
MATT also celebrates De Silva, whose 33 years behind the camera have given Trinidad and Tobago an extraordinary visual record of itself. Andrea’s photographs have helped us see ourselves in some of the most powerful and beautiful ways possible. Her work as a Reuter’s photographer in Trinidad and Tobago since 2007 is a significant achievement and a reflection of the skill, credibility and editorial judgement she has brought to the profession. Parasram has given five decades to journalism across the Caribbean and Canada. His career reflects a longstanding commitment to journalism, cultural preservation and public service.
MATT also honours the contribution of Sadhruddin “Sadro” Mohammed, whose voice opened 103FM when the station became Trinidad and Tobago’s first 24-hour all-Indian radio station in 1993. MATT salutes all five recipients and recognises the decades of service, creativity, professionalism and commitment represented by these awards.
Their careers also speak to the many ways in which media serves society. It informs and holds power to account, but it also tells our stories, preserves our history, connects communities, reflects who we are and, importantly, entertains us. As the media landscape continues to evolve, MATT believes the responsibility to serve audiences with credibility, creativity and integrity remains fundamental.
MATT celebrates this well-deserved recognition of five remarkable contributions to the media and cultural life of Trinidad and Tobago. President Prior Beharry; Vice President Kejan Haynes; Secretary Phillip Matheson; Assistant Secretary Shivani Lal; Treasurer Vindhar Suraj; Floor Members Jermaine Cruckshank and Yvonne Webb.