Minister of Culture and Community Development, Michelle Benjamin, in a continued effort to engage key Carnival stakeholders, hosted meetings with, the Executive of Pan Trinbago – the world governing body for the Steelpan, Trinidad and Tobago’s National Musical Instrument and Southex Event Management Company Limited – the franchise holder for Trinidad and Tobago’s Chutney Soca Monarch competition. These meetings were held at the Ministry’s Head Office in Port of Spain on Monday May 19th, 2025.
Also in attendance at the meetings was Dr. Narindra Roopnarine, Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Videsh Maharaj, Permanent Secretary, Mr. Martel Waldron, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Keiba Jacob Mottley, Chief Executive Officer, National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago, and Mr. Peter Khanai, Advisor to the Minister on Steelpan matters.
Pan Trinbago
Minister Benjamin welcomed Pan Trinbago’s Central Executive represented by Mrs. Beverly Ramsey-Moore, President, Mr. Terry Bernard, Vice President, Ms. Ingrid Weekes, Assistant Secretary and other Central Executive members. She thanked them for their longstanding contributions to Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural development and the promotion of the Steelpan art form. Additionally, Minister Benjamin reaffirmed her commitment to open dialogue, mutual respect and collaborative action toward advancing the Steelpan community.
Key Point Discussed in relation to the Steelpan:
· Pan Trinbago Headquarters – The meeting addressed the impending construction of the Pan Trinbago headquarters whereby the Executive outlined the urgent need for a dedicated, functional space that reflects the organisation’s status and significance. Minister Benjamin acknowledged this concern and gave her assurance that viable avenues to support the development and operational needs of the organisation will be explored.
· World Steelpan Day
In recognising the global relevance of the Steelpan, discussions also included the observance of World Steelpan Day (August 11) and a potential World Steelpan Festival 2025. Pan Trinbago shared their vision for both events, highlighting the opportunity to celebrate the Steelpan’s cultural significance and impact of Trinidad and Tobago’s international recognition. Plans are already underway to mark World Steelpan Day 2025 with activities that honour the Steelpan’s legacy and connect communities at home and abroad.
· Proposal for Junior Steelpan Music Festival
Further discussions to host an Inaugural Junior Steelpan Music Festival was also raised. The proposed event would provide a dedicated platform for young pannists to perform and develop their craft – encouraging greater youth involvement within the Steelpan community. Both Pan Trinbago and the Ministry recognised the value of such an initiative in preserving traditions and inspiring the next generation of Steelpan players.
Southex Event Management Company Limited
Led by Minister Benjamin, the Ministry’s team also met with Mr. George Singh and Mr. Rajkavir Singh, Directors of Southex Event Management Company Limited, and producers of the Chutney Soca Monarch competition. Minister Benjamin recognised this competition as a cornerstone event that reflects the multicultural identity of Trinidad and Tobago, having also celebrated 30 years in 2025. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting platforms such as this that showcase the diverse voices, sounds, and talents of our culture and communities.
Key Point Discussed in relation to the Chutney Soca Monarch Competition:
· Inclusivity of the Chutney Soca genre – The meeting centred on the importance of inclusivity within the national Carnival landscape, and explored strategies to further elevate and integrate the Chutney Soca genre within the broader Carnival experience.
· Opportunities for expanding the Competition – the discussions also explored opportunities for expanding the reach of the Chutney Soca Monarch competition, particularly through youth involvement, digital engagement, and increased international promotion, ensuring that this vibrant genre continues to thrive as an essential part of our cultural expression.
Minister Benjamin thanked both entities for their insights and pledged continued engagement in the weeks and months ahead. As preparations for Carnival 2026 intensify, the Ministry of Culture and Community Development remains resolute in its mission to support the cultural pillars of the festival and to ensure Carnival’s story remains unmatched.
