It was a show of strength, unity and hope.
Family, friends and well-wishers gathered in Woodford Square, Port of Spain, to remember the life of 9-year-old JLayna Armstrong, who lost her life tragically on April 19th, 2026.
It started with prayer, with everyone dressed in bright pink T-shirts featuring JLayna Armstrong’s smiling face and the phrase “Crowns Not Casualties” in diamond and gold lettering.
Although tragedy brought them together, the mood was far from somber as they celebrated JLayna’s vibrant personality two days after her official 40-day memorial.
The little girl who won the hearts of those she encountered was remembered in song, spoken word and poetry.
JLayna’s mother, Shahna Clement-Muhammad, said the gathering was not just about reflecting on her daughter’s life.
“We’re just trying to bring peace, togetherness, unity because we don’t want her to have to keep showing up for situations like this. We want to keep showing up for things that instil betterment, better values and just a better environment for our children. So it’s her 40 nights but it’s her hope, prayers for hope in a better direction.”
Anger, sadness and confusion are still felt 40 days later; however, Shahna said she continues to trust God and trust the process.
“Let your child, let your children be the strength that you need, look at them and think, Amata, how can you use me? Use me, every time you feel like you want to leave your child to do something else, use me as a remembrance that you always have tomorrow. Tomorrow is not always promised. So, spend time with your children, instil better values in them, but most importantly, fill them up so that the next generation doesn’t have to suffer the way our generation is suffering.”
“Crowns, Not Casualties” is a declaration demanding that Trinidad and Tobago’s young people be protected, educated and celebrated rather than lost to crime and tragedy.