The Ministry of Culture and Community Development is pleased to announce the appointment of the new Board of the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA).
Members received their instruments of appointment at a brief ceremony hosted at the Ministry’s Head Office, hosted by the Honourable Michelle Benjamin, Minister of Culture and Community Development, alongside Dr. Narindra Roopnarine, Parliamentary Secretary and other Ministry officials on Wednesday September 3, 2025.
The newly appointed Board, comprising a diverse mix of professionals in culture, business, communications and the arts, will serve for a three-year term. The members are:
· Mr. Kenny Phillips – Chairman
· Mr. Jason Sylvester – Deputy Chairman
· Ms. Trudy Jennai Thomas – Member
· Ms. Vornique Benjamin – Member
· Ms. Camille Nunez – Member
· Ms. Shirvani Ramkissoon – Member
· Mr. Clivaughn Gopie – Member
· Ms. Désirée Connor – Member
· Mr. Shawn Roberts – Member
· Mr. Trevon Jugmohan – Member
Mandate and Role
The newly appointed Board will guide NAPA’s operations as a cultural institution dedicated to showcasing both local and international performing arts. NAPA continues to serve a dual purpose:
1. Artistic Showcase: Provides a stage for theatre, music, dance and cultural expression.
2. Capacity Building: Supports young artists, students and cultural entrepreneurs.
Priorities for the New Term
The Board is expected to:
· Ensure good governance, transparency and accountability;
· Develop a clear roadmap for NAPA’s future;
· Strengthen revenue-generation strategies;
· Create opportunities for schools, community groups and emerging performers to access the facilities; and
· Enhance strategic partnerships and stakeholder relations – locally, regionally and internationally.
These priorities align with the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’s vision for NAPA to remain a hub of artistic excellence, education and community engagement while being welcoming and accessible to all communities.
In delivering remarks to the new appointees, Minister Benjamin stated, “Today begins a new chapter for the National Academy for the Performing Arts. This Board is appointed to protect and grow the pride and creativity of our people. I expect hard work, dedication and vision, because the choices you make will open doors for artists, young performers and communities across Trinidad and Tobago. I am committed with my Ministry’s executives to ensure that we keep NAPA as a space where our culture flourishes, our talent is supported and our people continue to shine brightly.”
The Ministry of Culture and Community Development congratulates the new Board and looks forward to their stewardship in ensuring that the National Academy for the Performing Arts continues to thrive for our culture, our communities and Trinidad and Tobago’s creative industry.