In a show of unity and community spirit, residents from several neighbourhoods in East Port of Spain and environs came together for a day of fun, family and friendly competition.
The community fun day attracted residents from communities including Mango Rose, Duncan Street, George Street, Nelson Street, St. Joseph Road, St. Paul Street and John John.
One of the organisers, Natalie Drakes, said the initiative was designed to create positive experiences for young people and strengthen relationships among communities often linked by negative headlines.
“Despite the negativity in the community, the neighbouring communities, we want to always give kids a reminder when they’re growing to adults that, hey, there’s always something good within every negative. And we always want to give them that memory because, come on, they’ve been through a lot, they’ve been seeing a lot. Why not? Just why not give them a good memory?”
The event featured a range of activities including sprint races, relay competitions, football matches, tug-of-war contests and family games.
One of the most popular activities saw children and parents teaming up in relay races, reinforcing the day’s theme of family and community involvement.
Ms. Drakes said the event’s success was made possible through the collective efforts of residents.
“The turnout was expected as usual because, again, despite the negativity we have within the area, we always show up for each other. We always show up for each other, regardless of what. So, you know, I appreciate everything, and it’s not just us that did it. Yeah, we probably did the main part of organising, but the community came together and pulled this off. Without them, this would not be.”
Participants were also divided into red and blue teams, creating friendly competition among residents from different communities.
Another organiser, Derrick Samuel, said the real victory was seeing children from areas often separated by social divisions playing side by side.
“Some from Mango Rose, some from Duncan Street, some from George Street, from Nelson Street, St. Joseph Road, St. Paul Street, and John John, and they’re all playing together. Nobody would believe this happening with all these young kids. They’re playing together and that’s to show you that we could do it as adults, you know?”
Mr. Samuel said they are hoping to make the fun day an annual event, bringing even more families together in the years ahead.