At 6 AM on January 12, while most of Trinidad and Tobago still slumbers, Virmala Balkaran will assume her position as the pioneering host of TTT Ltd’s groundbreaking morning program, ‘Trinidad and Tobago Today.’ The 34-year-old Chaguanas native will helm the two-hour broadcast that strategically follows the 6 AM news bulletin, incorporating subsequent 7 AM and 8 AM newscasts within its framework.
Balkaran characterizes her return to TTT as both a homecoming and a professional culmination. The program is meticulously designed to engage viewers during their morning routines—providing substantive content without the intensity of evening news formats. Through credible sources and analytical depth, the show will dissect current affairs affecting both the nation and global community, while later segments will transition toward lighter topics including birthday celebrations, Carnival culture, health, and wellness.
Her media journey began unexpectedly in 2013 following a disillusionment with politics. Although initially hesitant about media careers, a radio broadcasting course sparked her passion for human connection through broadcasting. Her breakthrough came unexpectedly in 2016 when she was thrust into anchoring coverage following the death of former Prime Minister Patrick Manning—an experience she describes as ‘destiny.’
After leaving CNMG (now TTT) in 2017, Balkaran spent eight transformative years at TT Radio Network’s Star 94.7 FM, where she developed autonomy and digital expertise. Recognizing the importance of formal credentials in a male-dominated industry, she pursued and obtained degrees in journalism and mass communication from Costaatt while simultaneously building her digital marketing consultancy.
Beyond broadcasting, Balkaran has established herself as a dedicated advocate, working with the Diabetes Association, serving as goodwill ambassador for Support Autism TT, and raising awareness about PCOS. She describes her philosophy as being ‘in the business of people,’ emphasizing that media influence should be leveraged for societal benefit.
The broadcaster attributes her success to her parents’ sacrifices and her conscious effort to overcome childhood shyness through debate and drama. As she prepares for this new chapter, Balkaran sees the morning show as the perfect synthesis of her journalistic training, advocacy work, and commitment to genuine human connection.