Three distinguished Trinidad and Tobago nationals are among this year’s National Award recipients, with the country’s highest honour, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, being conferred on Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh, President of the Senate Wade Mark, and former government minister and diplomat Dr Surujrattan Rambachan. The three are being recognised for their significant contributions to the country through the judiciary, public service, parliamentary service and community development.
Here is the list of the 2026 National Award recipients:
THE 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).
1. The Honourable Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh:
The Honourable the Chief Justice, Mr. Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh was admitted to practise as an attorney-at-law in Trinidad and Tobago on 30 October, 1992, and appointed a Judge in Supreme Court of Judicature of Trinidad and Tobago in September 2007. Justice Boodoosingh served as a High Court Judge in both the Criminal and Civil jurisdictions. In 2020, Justice Boodoosingh was elevated to Judge of the Court of Appeal of Trinidad and Tobago. Prior to be being appointed as a Judge, Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh was employed as a Lecturer at the Hugh Wooding Law School in 2001 and in 2007 was appointed as the Course Director of the Trial Advocacy Programme. He also serves as Coach and Adviser to schools’ Mooting Teams including the CCJ Moot Team. Justice Boodoosingh is the holder of a Bachelor of Laws degree, a Legal Education Certificate, as well as a Master of Laws in International Dispute Resolution. Justice Boodoosingh has notably published The Complete Advocate, a textbook on Advocacy in the Commonwealth Caribbean, and in 2020, Advocacy in Point Form and Advocacy in Verse, as well as a Practical Guide to Evidence in Civil Cases. Since attaining high office, Chief Justice Boodoosingh has focused on reducing the backlog of cases and improving the accessibility of justice for the general public, for example by resuming in-person hearings.
2. Senator the Honourable Wade Stephen Mark:
Mr. Wade Mark was elected President of the Senate of the 13th Republican Parliament on Friday May 23, 2025. He first entered Parliament as an Opposition Senator in 1990, eventually becoming one of the longest serving Senators in the history of Trinidad and Tobago. Mr. Mark served as Minister of Public Administration and Vice-President of the Senate in the 6th Republican Parliament. From 2002 to 2010 and again from 2015 to 2025, he served as Leader of Opposition Business in the Senate. Mr. Wade Mark was elected Speaker of the House on Friday June 18, 2010. As Speaker of the House, Mr. Mark served as Joint President of the Trinidad and Tobago Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and also served as Regional Chairman of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. From 1983 to 200, Mr. Mark was the Education and Research Officer for the Bank and General Workers Union. He served as Editor of the Union’s newsletter and as a Trustee of the Trinidad and Tobago Labour Congress. Mr. Mark has published a History and Development of the Trade Union Movement in Trinidad and Tobago and has produced working papers on globalization, regional integration and the rights of workers for and on behalf of the International Labour Organization.
3. Dr. Surujrattan Rambachan:
Former Member of Parliament and Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Service, Dr. Surujrattan Rambachan was elected to the House of Representatives as the Member for Tabaquite in the 11th Parliament. He served as a Senator and Minister in the Ministry of Industry and Tourism and as an Ambassador to Brazil during the 3rd Republican Parliament (1987-1991). He was appointed an Opposition Senator in the 9th Republican Parliament. Dr. Rambachan was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2010. He was also Chairman of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group and led a delegation to the Maldives. He is also a former mayor of Chaguanas and is a prominent academic and cultural activist, developing social institutions and community service organisations voluntarily for over 60 years. Dr. Rambachan is an outstanding Ramayan scholar, Bhajan singer and politician. He played a vital role in the formation of Indian Arrival Day as a national celebration, constructing in Cedros a commemoration of the arrival of Indians to this country.
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).
THE CHACONIA MEDAL GOLD
1. Dr. Paul Elias Alexander:
Dr. Paul E. Alexander is an accomplished Epidemiologist, research methodologist, and evidence-based medicine expert with over 20 years of experience in public health, clinical research, and evidence synthesis specifically in his role as former COVID-19 advisor for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He has served with leading organizations including the World Health Organization, Pan American Health Organization, Health Canada, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and McMaster University. His expertise spans epidemiology, biostatistics, systematic reviews, meta-analysis, guideline development and the progress of artificial intelligence. A member of the GRADE Working Group, Dr. Alexander has contributed to more than 40 peer-reviewed publications and has trained and mentored health and research professionals internationally by means of hosting seminars and panel participation including the study of infectious diseases.
2. Mr. Joseph Toney:
Mr. Joseph Toney served in several Ministerial capacities during the 3rd Republican Parliament, where he was the elected representative for Toco/Manzanilla during the National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR) Administration, (1986-1991). He is an attorney and former parliamentarian with decades of public service. His leadership extends to chairing boards of major state enterprises, including the Port Authority of Trinidad & Tobago, First Citizens Bank Limited, and directing the National Energy Corporation.
3. Mrs. Keshmani Dhaniram-Gosine:
Mrs. Keshmani Dhaniram-Gosine is an educator, leader and community servant with a career spanning over four decades. Her outstanding teaching record includes three first-place, two second-place and one third-place position in the Secondary Entrance Assessment, with more than 215 students placing among the Top 200 between 1999 and 2024. As Principal of Gandhi Memorial Vedic School from 2009 to 2025, she spearheaded major developments in teaching, community mobilisation and infrastructure. Mrs. Dhaniram-Gosine has supported families and vulnerable communities by providing food, books and other assistance, while encouraging students to participate in charitable initiatives. Her contribution to education and community service has earned her numerous awards and commendations over the years. A first-class graduate of the University of New Brunswick, Mrs Dhaniram-Gosine is also an author and educational content creator. Although she retired as Principal in January 2025, she continues to teach and mentor students, including those requiring additional academic support.
4. Dr. Maukesh Basdeo:
Dr. Maukesh Basdeo is a distinguished political scientist, educator, researcher, and public commentator with more than two decades of service at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. He holds a PhD in Political Science and has made significant contributions to the study of parliamentary governance, public administration, public policy, constitutional affairs, and Caribbean political development.Dr. Basdeo has presented his research internationally and has published his research in respected scholastic journals, books, and encyclopaedias. He has also supervised postgraduate research, contributed to institutional development, and provided valued public service through parliamentary studies, election analysis, and civic engagement.
5. Justice Allan Mendonça (Retired):
Mr. Justice Allan Mendonça is a retired distinguished jurist with over four decades of experience in the law. Born in Woodbrook in 1955, he studied at the University of Toronto and the University of the West Indies before completing his Legal Education Certificate at the Hugh Wooding Law School. Justice Mendonça was admitted to practice in Trinidad and Tobago in 1981. He rose to partner at the law firm of de Nobriga Inniss & Co., before being appointed to the Bench. He served as Judge of the High Court from 1999 to 2004 and as Justice of Appeal from 2004 to 2024, acting as Chief Justice on several occasions. Justice Mendonça played a pivotal role in implementing and monitoring the Civil Proceedings Rules. He is an Honorary Patron of the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and remains active as an arbitrator. Justice Mendonça is married and the father of two children, Sean and Kimberly.
6. Haji Churchill Azad Akaloo (Posthumous):
Haji Churchill Azad Akaloo was a visionary Trinidad and Tobago entrepreneur and philanthropist who built Sheik Lisha Ltd., from a humble family venture into a major Caribbean manufacturing enterprise. He rose from childhood financial hardship, helping his father sell curry powder by bicycle for a penny a packet, into a successful manufacturing and distribution enterprise expanding from vermicelli, split-peas powder and curry powder to per and plastic packaging. Guided by his Islamic faith, Mr. Akaloo dedicated his life to community building and humanitarianism. He quietly provided monthly food hampers to over 150 families and his 120 plus employees. In 2018, he sheltered 78 Cuban refugees in his warehouse and provided critical relief during regional hurricanes to Dominica and Grenada. His public service included roles on the National Insurance Appeals Tribunal and establishing the Warrenville Masjid. Recognized with numerous honours, including the 2021 TTMA Manufacturer of the Year, he passed away in September 2026, fulfilling his life’s philosophy: “My living must not be in vain.”
THE CHACONIA MEDAL SILVER
1. Ms Omatie Lyder:
Omatie Lyder is a veteran journalist and newsroom leader whose distinguished career spans 43 years at the Trinidad Express Newspapers, including 15 years as Editor-in-Chief. Beginning as a trainee journalist and reporter, she rose through the ranks, serving as columnist, News Editor, Features Editor, Business Editor, Sunday Express Editor, Managing Editor, Op-Ed Editor and Editor-in-Chief. She also served for a year as Editor of the now-defunct Independent newspaper. Throughout her career, Ms Lyder has provided editorial leadership in covering the full spectrum of national life, from politics and elections to crime, social issues, business, culture and major national events. As Op-Ed Editor, she provided a platform for diverse perspectives and voices from across society. She has also mentored and helped develop generations of journalists during her long newsroom career. Ms Lyder retired in February 2026 and is currently Consulting Editor at the Trinidad Express Newspapers.
2. Ms Ria Taitt:
Ria Taitt is a veteran journalist whose career spans more than four decades. She graduated from the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and English Literature, and later earned a Master of Arts in History. Her journalism career began at the Trinidad Express in September 1984 as a feature writer for the Sunday paper before moving to the political desk. Over the course of 42 years, Ms Taitt has reported extensively on parliamentary affairs and covered 11 General Elections. Her assignments included visits by world leaders such as Fidel Castro, Hugo Chávez, Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and Narendra Modi. She also covered the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Nassau and reported from Grenada in 1985 following its political upheaval. Ms Taitt served as Political Editor for approximately 20 years before retiring from journalism in March 2026.
3. Ms Andrea De Silva:
From the lively Trinidad Carnival masquerade to urgent news stories, from official ceremonies to community events, Ms. Andrea De Silva’s camera has captured it all, in her thirty-three years of experience as a photojournalist. Ms. De Silva’s work has significantly contributed to national civic discourse. She has reported on breaking news, political changes, community crises, and development issues with the journalistic integrity and sensitivity essential for national coverage. Her photographs of local leaders, officials, and ordinary citizens during extraordinary moments have helped foster public dialogue and accountability. One of her most significant accomplishment is being the Caribbean’s first and leading photojournalist to obtain long-term accreditation with Thomson Reuters, a prominent international news agency. Since 2007, Ms. De Silva has served as Reuters’ official photographer in Trinidad and Tobago, a position that requires high technical skill, credibility, reliability, and strong editorial judgement.
No other photographer in Trinidad and Tobago has achieved such a distinguished and influential career.
4. Mr. Jai Parasram:
Jai Parasram is a veteran journalist, author, and consultant with five decades of service across the Caribbean and Canada. He began his career in 1972 at Trinidad and Tobago Television, where he worked as a reporter, editor, producer, anchor and News Director. In 1988, he earned a Master of Journalism from Carleton University and joined the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. The following year, he was part of the team that launched CBC Newsworld, serving as its first Lineup Editor. Mr Parasram has received numerous journalism awards, and was a producer on the news team that won a Gemini Award for coverage of the Swissair disaster. In 2021, York University’s Robarts Centre honoured him as a Distinguished Fellow. He is the author of “Beyond Survival – Indians in Trinidad and Tobago 1845-2017” and “Far From the Mountain.” His distinguished career reflects a lasting commitment to journalism, cultural preservation and public service.
THE HUMMINGBIRD MEDAL
The Hummingbird 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
1. Mr. Shamsudeen Ayube:
Hunters Search and Rescue Team Commander Shamshudeen Ayube is a dedicated community leader and founder of the Hunters Search and Rescue Team. He has demonstrated exceptional commitment to helping others and serving his community. Since establishing the registered non-profit organization in February 2021, he has provided leadership and direction in search and rescue operations, coordinating volunteers, and emergency response efforts. His work includes assisting in searches for missing and vulnerable persons, supporting individuals and families during times of crisis, and promoting preparedness, teamwork, and community awareness. Through his selfless character, he has made community safety and emergency assistance a vital part of his service to others.
2. Mr. Vallence Rambharat:
Hunters Search and Rescue Team Founder of the Hunters Search and Rescue Team on February 2, 2021, Mr. Vallence Rambharat has led a dedicated team of volunteers who have conducted over five hundred (500) search and rescue operations throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Although some of their search and rescue operations ends tragically (as in the case of the missing female Ms. Andrea Bharatt). With the expertise of Mr. Rambharat, the team has reunited many families with their loved ones. The team’s vision is to work with law enforcement to assist families whose loved ones go missing as they firmly believe in their motto “Closure Matters”.
3. Ganesh Utsav Foundation:
Based in south Trinidad and led by spiritual leader Pundit Sunil Seethal Maharaj, the Ganesh Utsav Foundation has developed a significant record of national service in Trinidad and Tobago. Incorporated as a non-profit organisation in 2017, the Foundation combines its religious mission with practical humanitarian and community assistance. Its national service includes providing food and support to the less fortunate and vulnerable persons, and responding to communities affected by flooding through the distribution of hot meals and essential supplies. The Foundation’s work promotes community resilience, compassion and social responsibility. Through sustained volunteerism, charitable outreach, disaster response and community welfare initiatives, the Foundation demonstrates a continuing commitment to national development and the wellbeing of citizens.
4. Chinmaya Mission:
Founded on October 2, 1997, Chinmaya Mission Trinidad & Tobago (CMTT) has grown from humble beginnings. Under the leadership of Swami Prakashananda the organization has grown from just three (3) founding members to a vibrant spiritual community of over ten thousand (10,000) across the nation. In 1997 Swamiji initiated Chinmaya Mission activities in Trinidad and Tobago. Thereafter he began the longstanding tradition of his satsangs, yajnas and camps across Trinidad, the Caribbean, the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom.
5. Mr. Rakesh Yankarran:
Rakesh Yankarran, popularly known as “The Raja” has been a celebrated voice in Trinidad and Tobago’s musical landscape for more than five decades. Born in Carapichaima in 1959, he began singing in temples and religious functions at the age of ten, following in the footsteps of his father, the late Isaac Yankarran, known as “The Man with the Golden Voice.” Mr Yankarran began performing bhajans and classical music and later learned Hindi, which he used to write his own songs. In 1990, he released his first chutney album. He won the National Chutney Monarch title in 1996 and again in 1997. In 2002, he received four 103 FM Music Awards, including Best Song and Best Male Artiste. Mr. Yankarran’s performances have taken him to India, the United States, Canada, England, Jamaica, the Netherlands, Guyana and Suriname. He remains a prominent figure in chutney, classical, bhajan and film music.
6. Mr. Shamshad Ali:
Mr. Shamshad Feisal Yaccoob Ali is a distinguished executive with over three decades of professional contribution, with discipline, transparency and foresight, in the fields of Corporate Financial Planning and Administration; Property Management; Human Resources and ICT management and Social Media Management. Through his personal and corporate resources of Center Pointe Mall and the Price Club, Mr. Ali has provided gratuitous national service to the nation. This service including distributing food hampers, building homes, providing flood relief, liquidating utility bills, donating clothing, school supplies and electronic devices to school children and donating classroom furniture to primary schools. Notable he spearheaded road and bridge repairs with the permission of Local Government and used the Centre Point Mall for the SATT Vaccination Centre during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. Shamshad Feisal Yaccoob Ali has served in the Anjuman Sunnat-ul Jamaat Association (A.S.J.A.) since 2013 and currently holds the position of Vice President.
7. Mr. Sadhruddin “Sadro” Mohammed (Posthumous):
On 4 July 1993, Trinidad and Tobago’s first 24-hour all-Indian radio station, 103FM, took to the air. The first voice listeners heard was Mr. Sadhruddin “Sadro” Mohammed, opening the station with his programme Shabnam. Coming from a family who pioneered East Indian music and culture Sadro was, in many ways, a pioneer himself in the broadcasting industry. He also became a musician in his own right, able to move between the harmonium, tabla, guitar and dholak. That grounding eventually found another home in Saarana Studios, which Sadro operated and where numerous musical recordings were produced He brought his love for culture, music and connection to his listening audience, becoming more than a voice on the radio, but family.
8. Mr. Emamool “Mamoo” Deen (Posthumous):
Doubles as a staple in local cuisine was popularized in the 1930s in Princes Town by Mr. Emamool Deen and his wife Mrs. Rasulan Deen. What began as the sale of curried chickpeas evolved into a savory dish served with chutney and other spices, and eventually served with a single fried flatbread or bara. As customers began requesting that the bara be doubled in their orders, the name “doubles” was coined. Their achievement is not limited to the popularizing of the food item but extends to the development of a sustainable model of grassroots entrepreneurship. By innovating a product design with the “double bara”, they established a replicable business model that has been embraced by hundreds of vendors nationwide. Today, doubles is considered Trinidad and Tobago’s number one street food which can be found at almost every corner.
9. Mr. Sylbert Robley:
For more than five decades, Sylbert “Bellman” Robley, 78, has been a dedicated community and spiritual leader in Indian Walk, Moruga. From his early years, he devoted his time to assisting senior citizens, supporting and guiding young people, and contributing to the wellbeing of families within his community. Alongside his years of employment with the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC), he remained committed to helping those around him. Mr. Robley has also served as a leader in the Spiritual Baptist faith, to which he has devoted more than 64 years. Through his leadership, he has provided spiritual guidance, mentorship and support to both elders and younger generations. His work extended to the United States, where he continued his ministry and service before returning to Trinidad and Tobago. Even at 78, Mr. Robley remains actively involved with the elderly and children of his community, continuing a lifetime dedicated to faith, leadership and helping others.
10. Dr. Winston Mansingh:
A graduate from the Community Bible Institute in Brooklyn, New York, and the Haggai Institute in Maui, Hawaii, Rev. Winston Mansingh is an Internationally Certified Educator on HIV, as well as a John Maxwell Leadership Trainer. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Ministry and completed theological studies at the Open Bible Institute of Theology. Since April 2011, Rev. Mansingh has served as the Senior Pastor of Poonah Open Bible Miracle Centre, a member church of the Open Bible Standard Churches Trinidad and Tobago. He is also the Elder-Director of Supportive Church Ministries on the national board of the OBSCTT, overseeing church development and kingdom expansion efforts. Rev. Mansingh holds leadership roles at both national and international levels. A former board member of the Trinidad and Tobago Council of Evangelical Churches, his work includes ministering globally in seminars, conferences, evangelistic crusades, and service engagements across countries such as South Africa, Uganda, Pakistan, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, and the Caribbean.
HUMMINGBIRD MEDAL SILVER
1. Mr. Rawle Raphael:
Mr. Rawle Raphael pioneered athletics in Trinidad and Tobago for over fifty years. Being the co-founder of the Hampton International Games, Mr. Raphael is a distinguished figure in Caribbean athletics, and is affectionately known as “Mr. Hampton”. He served as President of the Hampton Athletic Club up to 2010, a club that produced elite athletes such as Edwin Roberts and Hasely Crawford. His visionary leadership, pioneering initiatives, and commitment to athlete development have earned him regional and international recognition. In 2012, Mr. Raphael was inducted into the Central American & Caribbean Athletic Confederation (CACAC) Hall of fame for his work in the field of sport. His initiatives have provided platforms for youth development, international competition, and national pride. His commitment to excellence and innovation has left an indelible mark on athletics in Trinidad and Tobago.
HUMMINGBIRD MEDAL BRONZE
1. Mr. Junior Bisnath:
Cultural practitioner Junior Bisnath has spent more than three decades preserving and promoting Trinidad and Tobago’s Moko Jumbie tradition. Known as the “Constructive Termite”, Mr. Bisnath is the Founder and Director of the Junior Bisnath School of Arts and Kaisoca Moko Jumbies, where he has provided free training in the art of stilt walking to thousands of young people. Working particularly with children from underserved communities, he has used the Moko Jumbie to foster discipline, confidence, self-esteem and cultural pride. His students have represented Trinidad and Tobago at major international events, including the FIFA World Cup, and have travelled to countries including Germany, Zimbabwe and England. A skilled woodworker and sculptor, Mr. Bisnath has also dedicated himself to preserving traditional craftsmanship and collecting artefacts connected to the nation’s cultural history. His lifelong commitment to culture and youth development has made him an important custodian of Trinidad and Tobago’s heritage.
2. Mr. Fyzool Awardy:
Fyzool “Haroon” Awardy has devoted his life to business, sport and community service, with a particular commitment to supporting young people and creating opportunities for others. Born on 18 August 1949 and raised in Thick Village, Siparia Road, Mr. Awardy began his professional career with Neal & Massy Limited before joining his family’s business, Awardy’s Hardware and General Supplies Limited, in 1975. He continues to serve as the company’s Managing Director. For more than four decades, he has contributed to the development of sport through the Southern Games Organizing Committee, mentoring and supporting generations of athletes and cyclists. His contribution to community life has been equally notable, serving as Deputy Chairman of PLIPDECO, supporting the Kolomo King Steel Orchestra and serving as President of the Thick Village Jamaat. Throughout his lifetime of achievement and service, Mr. Awardy has strengthened communities, invested in the potential of others, and helped create opportunities for generations to come.
3. Bishop Marjorie Anderson:
Bishop Marjorie Anderson has a wide and remarkable span of credentials and service to Trinidad and Tobago. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education, a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Arts and Social Services. She is a Counsellor, a Correctional Services Professional and a Registered Nurse. In the fields of education, she has developed curriculums, training manuals, policies and procedures for institutions including the Trinidad and Tobago Hotel School, Youth Training and Employment Partnership Programme and the Ministry of National Security. As a Human Resources Professional, impressively, Bishop Anderson has balanced her portfolios seamlessly, ensuring civic duties were rendered through community and spiritual services, Together with Teacher Cathy Adams, of the United Brotherhood of Time Spiritual School, extensive work have been done in the areas of Development, Mental Health, Rehabilitation and Education throughout Trinidad and Tobago for over forty (40) years, via their Emancipation program. To date Bishop Anderson continues to serve at eighty-four (84) years, improving lives and strengthening communities.
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
1. Mr. Ian Macintyre SC:
Ian Macintyre, SC has devoted more than three decades to public service through legislative drafting and legal administration. From 1988 to 1997, he served as Parliamentary Counsel and Senior Parliamentary Counsel in the Legislative Drafting Department of the Office of the Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago. He subsequently worked in the British Virgin Islands as Assistant Parliamentary Counsel, Parliamentary Counsel and Head of the Legislative Drafting Unit in the Attorney General’s Chambers. He also briefly served as Acting Attorney General. In 2010, Mr. Macintyre was appointed Chief Parliamentary Counsel in the Office of the Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, and in 2011, was admitted to the Inner Bar as Senior Counsel. Throughout his career, he has contributed to the quality and clarity of legislation, while upholding high ethical and professional standards.
2. Mr. Raymond Surujbally:
Raymond Surujbally is an educator of 40 years who has dedicated his career to education and youth development. He serves as Principal of Macaulay Government Primary School in Claxton Bay, where he has championed academic achievement and all-round development, while embracing innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Mr. Surujbally is a strong advocate for the empowerment of young people, particularly those facing social, behavioural or learning challenges. He has called for greater resources in schools, including guidance officers, social workers and teachers’ aides, as well as opportunities for skills development to improve students’ employability and engagement in society. Throughout his career, Mr. Surujbally has sought to ensure that students are given the support and opportunities they need to reach their greatest potential. His work as an educator and advocate reflects a sustained commitment to helping young people overcome barriers to learning and find their place in society.
3. Master Ralph Doyle:
Master Ralph Doyle began his legal career in 1977, when he was admitted to the practice of law. In 1986, he became Administrative Secretary to the Chief Justice and, in 1990, was appointed Master of the High Court, a position he held until his retirement in 2008. Master Doyle has served as a Guest Lecturer at the Hugh Wooding Law School and as the first Deputy Director of the Police Complaints Authority. For more than 14 years, he was a member of the Rules Committee and also served on the Ad Hoc Committee. His contributions helped lay the groundwork for specialised court management and the development of judicial research officers. Widely respected for his knowledge of legal practice and procedure, Master Doyle has been described by his peers as exceptional in these fields. He has made a lasting contribution to the administration of justice and the development of Trinidad and Tobago’s legal institutions.
4. Mr. Leonard Bradshaw:
Leonard Bradshaw made his contribution to public service in Trinidad and Tobago through his work in the Senate, where he participated in legislative oversight, policy deliberations and discussions on the governance framework of this country. He served as Vice-President of the Senate from 1988 to 1991 under the National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR) Government, presiding over Senate proceedings, ensuring integrity in legislative process and facilitating debate in the Upper House of Parliament. He has been a longstanding proponent of policy reform, speaking on national issues including crime reduction. His parliamentary service came during a pivotal period in Trinidad and Tobago’s political history and reflected his commitment to the functioning of this country’s legislative institutions.
5. Trinidad and Tobago Cadet Force:
The Trinidad and Tobago Cadet Force (TTCF), established on 10 May 1910, is one of the nation’s longest-serving youth development organisations. For 116 years, the TTCF has contributed to national development by shaping generations of disciplined, responsible, confident and service-oriented young citizens. Through leadership training, mentorship, community service, annual camps, adventurous and vocational training, cultural programmes and national ceremonial service, the Force develops character, resilience, teamwork, patriotism and responsible citizenship. Operating through eight Battalions in more than 75 secondary school-based Cadet Units nationwide, the TTCF currently serves more than 2,300 cadets and recruits, supported by over 250 Officers, Warrant Officers and Adult Instructors. Its contribution extends to disaster preparedness, humanitarian assistance, regional Cadet cooperation and the preservation of national traditions. The TTCF remains committed to developing youth, building character, inspiring leadership and preparing young people for responsible service to Trinidad and Tobago. The TTCF is noted for “Developing Youth. Building Character. Inspiring Leadership. Serving Trinidad and Tobago.”
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 GOLD
1. Mrs. Deborah Moore-Miggins:
Deborah Moore-Miggins has had an influential role in advancing the cultural, legal, and social development of women in Trinidad and Tobago through her work as a lawyer, politician, author, and cultural mentor. Her contributions include Political and Community Advocacy Work with a focus on the promotion of literacy and by extension, women’s empowerment through her mentorship. She founded the People’s Empowerment Party and ran for election under the Tobago House of Assembly, demonstrating leadership and encouraging women’s participation in politics. She also founded the Pepper Ants 2 Speech Band Group and has authored hundreds of speeches for local cultural presentations. Mrs. Moore-Miggins is the author of Caribbean Proverbs That Raised Us, a work preserving and celebrating Caribbean oral and literary tradition with contributions from friends and community members. Through her writings and mentorship, she promotes literacy and empowers women and youth to express themselves, preserve cultural identity, and gain confidence in public communication.
2. Mrs. Rudrawatee Nan Gosine-Ramgoolam:
Dr. Rudrawatee Nan Gosine-Ramgoolam’s contribution to the development of women in Trinidad and Tobago include being the first Human Resource Officer in the Public Service of Trinidad and Tobago. She promoted the adoption of the Strategic Human Resource Management model as opposed to Personnel Administration model in the Public Service. She also introduced the Employee Assistance Programme to manage employee wellbeing, providing support to all public officers, especially benefitting female employees. Gosine-Ramgoolam’s role as Minister of Public Administration was pivotal in launching the Green Paper “Transforming the Civil Service: Renewal and Modernisation,” which advanced the then Public Service Reform Agenda. She has been recognized by the Human Resource Management Association of Trinidad and Tobago with the Legacy Awards, highlighting her impact on the field and by extension the development of women in Trinidad and Tobago.
3. Ms Destra Garcia:
Destra Garcia has made a lasting contribution to the development and representation of women in Trinidad and Tobago through her career as a soca artiste, songwriter and motivational speaker. Known as the Queen of Soca and the Queen of Bacchanal, she has taken Trinidad and Tobago’s music to audiences across the Caribbean and internationally, while establishing herself as one of the genre’s most recognisable female voices. With more than two decades in the music industry, Garcia has used her platform to promote confidence, self-expression and female empowerment. Her bold artistic identity and commanding stage presence have challenged conventional expectations of women in soca and broadened the space for female artistes to assert themselves creatively and professionally. Beyond her own career, Garcia has served as an inspiration to emerging female soca artistes, demonstrating the possibilities available to women in the creative industries and encouraging them to pursue their ambitions with confidence.