In a powerful address to the 2025 graduating class of the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), Sieunarine Persad Coosal, Executive Chairman of the Coosal’s Group of Companies and honorary doctor of entrepreneurship and innovation, urged graduates to embrace their role as change-makers in an era of unprecedented transformation. Coosal emphasized that the world is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, artificial intelligence, climate change, economic uncertainty, and social inequality. He challenged the graduates not to passively adapt to these changes but to lead them with purpose and innovation. Coosal highlighted the importance of resilience, creativity, and a mindset focused on solutions rather than problems. Drawing inspiration from historical figures like Thomas Edison and Malala Yousafzai, he reminded the audience that failure is a stepping stone to progress and that true success lies in uplifting others. Coosal called on the graduates to use their education to make a meaningful impact on their families, communities, and nation, urging them to dream boldly and act with purpose. He concluded by celebrating their achievements and potential, describing them as the architects of a resilient and prosperous future.
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Brightstar empowers Memisa Centre with learning technology
Brightstar Lottery celebrated International Men’s Day on November 19 by making a transformative technology donation to The Memisa Centre, a residential facility in Arima, Trinidad and Tobago, dedicated to supporting adult men with intellectual disabilities. The donation, facilitated through Brightstar’s After School Advantage (ASA) programme, included digital projectors, Samsung tablets, and Smart TVs, aimed at enhancing the centre’s vocational training and life skills programmes. Brightstar employees also volunteered their time to install the equipment and engage with the trainees, fostering meaningful connections and encouragement. The Memisa Centre, which currently serves 15 trainees, focuses on areas such as food preparation, agriculture, beauty, and remedial education. Michelle Baptiste-Games, acting manager of the centre, emphasized the impact of the donation, stating that the new technology would bring lessons to life, promote interaction, and build confidence among the residents. Desmond Sydney, Brightstar’s retail manager, highlighted the company’s commitment to inclusion and community development, viewing International Men’s Day as an opportunity to serve as positive role models. This initiative marks another milestone in Brightstar’s ongoing partnership with The Memisa Centre, which began in 2016.
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Bryden pi supports animal welfare organisations
In a heartwarming display of corporate compassion, Bryden pi, through its newly launched Pawfect Pets brand, has extended its support to local animal welfare organizations with a generous donation of $10,000 and a dedicated volunteer day. The initiative, which took place on November 21 at the Trinidad and Tobago Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TTSPCA), underscores the company’s commitment to community and care.
The donation, part of Bryden pi’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, was distributed among several local animal welfare organizations. The TTSPCA received $5,000 to support ongoing shelter operations and animal rescue initiatives, while the Mustapha Project and Animals Alive TT each received $2,500 to aid in rescuing, fostering, rehoming, and providing veterinary care for animals in need.
Sheena Alexander, TTSPCA supervisor, accepted the donation from Wendy Mahabir, division manager at Bryden pi, on behalf of Pawfect Pets. The event also saw Bryden pi team members actively participating in animal care, feeding, and maintenance activities at the TTSPCA, embodying the company’s belief that corporate responsibility begins with personal action.
Nabila Lackhan, senior brand manager at Bryden pi, emphasized the company’s dedication to animal welfare. ‘Pawfect Pets was created to care for animals, and this initiative allows us to take that care one step further – by giving back to the organizations that dedicate their time and resources to animal welfare every day,’ she said. ‘Through donations and active volunteering, we are proud to help create a better, kinder community for all creatures, big and small.’
The Pawfect Pets line, which includes Waterless Shampoo, Puppy Shampoo, Oatmeal Shampoo, and Whitening Shampoo, is designed with love and protection in mind, reinforcing Bryden pi’s message of empathy and responsible care. The company’s CSR philosophy, centered on ’empathy in action,’ continues to drive meaningful initiatives that align with its core values and connect with the community.
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Wintering in the Caribbean
As winter approaches, the boreal forests and tundra of the far north signal the start of a remarkable natural phenomenon: bird migration. In the southern Caribbean, this annual event brings a flurry of avian activity, with species like the spotted sandpiper and blackpoll warbler making their way to warmer climes. These birds, driven by ancient instincts, traverse vast distances, some covering the equivalent of a lunar journey over their lifetimes. The spotted sandpiper, for instance, arrives in Trinidad and Tobago in August, shedding its spotted plumage for a more subdued winter look, only to regain its vibrant appearance by April in preparation for its return north. The migration is not just a visual spectacle but also an auditory one, with warblers adding their melodic chirps to the Caribbean soundscape. However, this natural rhythm faces challenges from human activities and extreme weather events, which can disrupt migratory paths. Despite these obstacles, the resilience and adaptability of these birds underscore their role as true global citizens, offering lessons in sustainability and ecological balance.
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San Fernando chamber seizes new opportunities for wealth creation
The Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative poised to reshape the economic landscape of southern Trinidad. The Southern Investment and Marketing Co-operative Credit Union Society (SIMCO-OP), set to launch early next year, aims to provide tailored financial solutions for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative is expected to unlock new opportunities for financing, wealth creation, and business growth in the region.
Kiran Singh, president of the chamber, announced the initiative during the annual Christmas charity event, ‘Mix and Mistletoe,’ held on November 15 at Achievors Banquet Hall in La Romaine. Singh emphasized that SIMCO-OP will not only facilitate business development but also foster job creation and wealth generation. The cooperative plans to host pop-up markets and workshops to support entrepreneurs and the broader community.
In addition to SIMCO-OP, the chamber is rolling out a comprehensive health plan for its 153 members and introducing a multi-faceted discount card to reduce operational costs. These efforts underscore the chamber’s commitment to enhancing its role in the national financial system and bolstering the economic resilience of its members.
The chamber is also expanding its international presence, with members participating in global trade events such as the Consumer Electronics Show in the US, a pharmaceutical expo in India, and trade forums in China. A recent seminar on ‘doing business with India,’ hosted in collaboration with the Indian High Commissioner, further broadened international trade opportunities.
Regionally, the chamber has forged ties with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce in Guyana, with a trade mission planned for the new year. Exploratory engagements with the Jamaican market are also on the horizon for 2026. These partnerships aim to provide southern businesses with access to shared information networks and new markets.
The chamber is collaborating with the San Fernando City Corporation to upgrade public spaces like Harris Promenade and enhance security measures. Two televisions were donated to the TT Police Service for improved monitoring in downtown San Fernando, with local businesses contributing CCTV cameras.
Singh highlighted the chamber’s efforts to restore San Fernando’s status as Trinidad and Tobago’s industrial capital. He encouraged members to explore opportunities in the global services sector, a trillion-dollar industry with significant potential for export diversification and foreign-exchange earnings.
Neil Gosine, parliamentary secretary at the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism, commended the chamber for its dual focus on economic leadership and social responsibility. He outlined several government projects under the TT Revitalisation Blueprint, including a waterfront redevelopment in San Fernando, a new highway, and the transformation of a legacy hospital into a modern health city. These initiatives aim to create over 50,000 jobs and position Trinidad and Tobago as a global investment and tourism hub.
Gosine also announced the upcoming launch of the Private Sector Organisation of TT (PSOTT) and a ‘Buy Local, Build Trinbago’ campaign to reduce import dependency and boost domestic production. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting private-sector growth as a cornerstone of national development.
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Laurentum Gardens: Finding freedom off-grid, unplugged
Nestled in the lush, serene forests of Matura, far removed from the relentless grind of urban life, the Laurence family has crafted a life of purpose and sustainability. Isha and Stephon Laurence, along with their children Zuri and Kulture, have transformed their vision into Laurentum Gardens, a thriving hub of farming, agro-processing, and off-grid living. Named after the Latin form of their surname, Laurentum Gardens stands at the intersection of Toco Main Road and Carib Street, offering a unique blend of nature and enterprise.
Isha, a former insurance professional, recalls the monotony of her daily commute and the stress of city life. ‘Life felt like it was on repeat,’ she says. Four years ago, the family made the bold decision to leave behind the chaos, embracing a simpler, off-grid lifestyle devoid of modern distractions like electricity and television. This shift not only brought them closer as a family but also allowed their eldest daughter to excel academically, achieving 12 CSEC passes.
Today, Laurentum Gardens is a testament to their hard work and ingenuity. The family cultivates their own produce, cold-presses coconut oil, and crafts an array of pepper sauces, dried spices, and herbal medicines. Their products, infused with honey from their own beehives, have gained popularity among locals and tourists alike. What began as a modest roadside stall has blossomed into a well-stocked shop, attracting visitors who seek the authenticity and warmth of the Laurence family.
Their journey is not just about self-sufficiency but also about community impact. Isha, who completed a tourism course and collaborated with Nature Seekers, highlights the eco-tourism potential of Matura, a major leatherback turtle nesting site. The family’s efforts have created a ripple effect, supporting both the local economy and environmental conservation.
Stephon reflects on the broader significance of their work: ‘Not everyone will be a police officer or a doctor. We need the shoemakers, the carpenters—the people who keep society running.’ For Isha, the greatest reward lies in the positive influence they have on others. ‘A lot of people depend on us now,’ she says with pride.
Laurentum Gardens is more than a business; it’s a beacon of sustainable living, proving that peace and purpose can flourish under the forest canopy. For those venturing through Matura, the scent of pepper and honey will guide you to a family who chose green over grey.
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What’s making First Citizens’ share price go down, and up
The First Citizens Group (FCGFH) has recently experienced significant volatility in its share prices, sparking debates among stakeholders and former government officials. Over the past months, the bank’s shares have seen a sharp decline, with former Finance Minister Colm Imbert describing the situation as ‘frightening.’ He noted a 26% drop from $42 in April to $31 in November, raising concerns about potential market manipulation. Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley also expressed alarm, suggesting that the leadership changes at FCGFH might have contributed to the decline. Despite these concerns, current Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo remained optimistic, stating that share price fluctuations are a natural part of the market. His confidence seemed justified as FCGFH shares rebounded by 4% in late November, closing at $34. The bank’s strong financial performance, including a $1.27 billion pre-tax profit in 2024, further underscores its stability. However, investor sentiment remains a critical factor, with some attributing the volatility to the controversial departure of former CEO Karen Darbasie and subsequent board changes. While the long-term outlook remains uncertain, the recent recovery suggests that FCGFH may be regaining investor confidence.
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Power play
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago showcased her diplomatic finesse during a high-profile meeting with General Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s on November 25. The encounter, marked by warm smiles and symbolic gestures, underscored the growing alliance between the two nations. While the specifics of their two-hour discussion remain undisclosed, the optics of the meeting conveyed a clear message of mutual collaboration and strategic alignment. This visit followed Persad-Bissessar’s earlier engagement with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on September 30, where discussions centered on the revival of the Dragon gas project. For General Caine, the stopover in Trinidad and Tobago served as a subtle yet pointed signal to Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, emphasizing the US’s presence in the region. The official statement from the US Embassy highlighted shared objectives in combating illicit activities, though the language left room for interpretation. Notably, General Caine’s appointment by President Trump earlier this year broke from traditional military protocols, adding an air of intrigue to his role. Amid ongoing debates about the legality of US military operations, Persad-Bissessar’s enthusiastic embrace of this diplomatic engagement reflects her strategic positioning on the global stage.
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Black Friday sales, from novelty event to local business anchor
Black Friday, a hallmark of pre-Christmas shopping in Trinidad and Tobago, continues to draw massive crowds and fuel retail activity. Known for its deep discounts and bustling storefronts, the event has evolved from a novelty to a critical driver of fourth-quarter retail performance, according to Vashti Guyadeen, CEO of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce. Speaking to Business Day on November 26, 2025, Guyadeen highlighted the significance of Black Friday and Cyber Monday in boosting year-end sales, despite ongoing economic challenges. She shared insights from the forthcoming Q4 2025 Business Outlook Index by the Arthur Lok Jack GSB, revealing that while over half of surveyed executives reported weaker financial performance in the past six months, most remain cautiously optimistic about future improvements. Guyadeen emphasized that businesses are leveraging the ‘big discount mindset’ to stimulate consumer demand, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) offering locally made goods. Kiran Singh, President of the San Fernando Chamber of Commerce, echoed this sentiment, noting that Black Friday sales provide a crucial momentum boost heading into the Christmas season and even early Carnival-related purchases. Singh highlighted the growing trend of competitive pricing, improved digital marketing, and hybrid shopping strategies, which have enhanced consumer engagement. Angie Jairam, President of the Fyzabad Chamber of Commerce, observed a yearly increase in participation across businesses of all sizes, underscoring the event’s role in energizing the retail landscape amidst economic pressures. Despite challenges such as higher operating costs and foreign exchange issues, the Chamber encourages retailers to strategically leverage the season while maintaining responsible pricing and high service standards.
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Serve citizens, not silence the critics
The recent uproar involving allegations against the family of St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves and the social media assertions made by Minister Anil Roberts highlights a critical issue that goes beyond individual political figures – the fundamental responsibility of governance and its true focus. Governments are established to serve their citizens, ensuring justice, stability, economic advancement, and overall well-being. When governance deviates from addressing national priorities to engaging in personal disputes or political distractions, it undermines public trust and weakens democratic foundations. Defensive reactions to criticism, rather than transparent engagement, signal insecurity and discourage dissent. This environment fosters fear, stifling voices from citizens, journalists, and civil society who seek to address pressing issues. Such a climate borders on tyranny, where freedom of expression is curtailed, and governance becomes self-serving rather than people-centric. The core focus of any government should remain on essential pillars of national development: education, healthcare, housing, security, economic growth, and social justice. Citizens demand action on critical challenges like unemployment, cost of living, crime, and infrastructure, not distractions from political feuds or media battles. Leadership must exhibit composure and clarity of purpose, rising above personal affronts to prioritize the improvement of citizens’ lives. It is imperative for governments in Trinidad and Tobago and across the region to refocus their efforts on governance that fosters confidence and unity. Transparency, accountability, and respect for diverse opinions must guide public discourse. When controversies overshadow progress and personality clashes replace policy, it is the people who suffer. If controversy is used to mask inefficiency or divert attention from unresolved national issues, it is the duty of citizens, media, and civil society to demand a return to focus. True leadership is not threatened by criticism but strengthened by it. Governance is about fulfilling public trust, not protecting personal interests. It is time for governments to rise above the noise and recommit to the service, development, and empowerment of their people.