Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin has issued an open invitation to everyone involved in the culture and community sectors to engage with her as she takes up her new portfolio.
Minister Benjamin made the call during Wednesday’s prizegiving ceremony for winners and participants in the 2025 Uptown Carnival competition.
Minister Benjamin described the ceremony as authentic, noting that it was one of her first engagements since taking up her ministerial portfolio.
“As the newly minted Minister, you have my commitment. I am here to ensure groups like the Uptown Carnival Committee is well funded and not just funded, but participation.”
The Culture Minister said she felt it was important to attend the prizegiving, though her schedule was packed.
“What I’m asking the stakeholders, come, meet with me. I am here to listen and to work with you and expect change. And with that change, you will get an improved product.”
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Port of Spain South, Keith Scotland, said Carnival 2026 will see at least one more event added to the calendar.
“Next year we are going to have one event; Chutney must meet Calypso here on the Greens. I’ve already spoken to Ravi B. So we’re having four events. Minister, you are newly minted; I will not approach you now; the time is not right.”
Among the events hosted for Uptown Carnival 2025 were Clash of the Tents, Bring Your Music and Come, and Friday Bacchanal.