CHILDREN CALL FOR PEACE AND UNITY IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

CHILDREN CALL FOR PEACE AND UNITY IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

CHILDREN CALL FOR PEACE AND UNITY IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

18th September, 2023 – Port-of-Spain: Children in Trinidad and Tobago are boldly championing peace and unity at the Heroes Foundation in Woodbrook, Port-of-Spain. The striking mural now adorning the Heroes Headquarters is the outcome of a communication and advocacy initiative by thirty local and migrant participants in the Heroes Development Programme (HDP). Their aim is to inspire positive societal change.

HDP is a comprehensive three-year program designed for secondary school students in Forms 1-3 and migrant youths aged 11 to 17. Developed with support from UNICEF, this Caribbean-focused curriculum blends psychosocial development and sustainability education with child and youth-led advocacy and action. The mural project is part of the WebPal integration activity, supported by the Pan-American Development Foundation (PADF) and Protec Group, where participants learn about each other’s cultures, share experiences, understand different languages, and build a sense of community in safe spaces.

Brian Lara with young cricket fans at the SAVE launch with the Heroes Foundation

Leorbeidys, 13, a participant in the Heroes Development Programme

Among these budding changemakers is Leorbeidys, a thirteen-year-old who played a pivotal role in conceptualising the mural. Her favourite message,

“One Planet, One People – Peace Is What We Need,”

embodies her vision of a harmonious world rooted in mutual respect. She explained,

“I believe that we can coexist peacefully, without problems and discrimination, if we respect one another. I hope this mural encourages people to make our country better, just like Heroes Foundation encourages and supports us to do better together.”

Lawrence Arjoon, Chief Executive Officer of the Heroes Foundation, emphasised the potential and essential role of young people in shaping a brighter future, stating,

“While young people often remain silent observers in our society, they possess profound insights from their unique perspectives and lived experiences. Here at Heroes, we are unwavering in our commitment to listen to their voices and empower them with the skills and knowledge necessary to pave the way for safe and sustainable lifestyles. The more we invest in their growth today, the more promising our future becomes.”

Hard at work – Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation CEO at the SAVE launch

Lawrence Arjoon, CEO of the Heroes Foundation

Hard at work – Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation CEO at the SAVE launch

Heroes CEO, Lawrence Arjoon, PADF Program Manager, Hannah Gabrielle Katwaroo, and Heores Generation to Generation Council Chair, Jovanna Khan.

Hannah Gabrielle Katwaroo, PADF Program Manager, added,

“The Pan American Development Foundation has been supporting the holistic, positive development of both local and migrant children through its partnership with the Heroes Foundation for over 3 years. Through HDP and its curriculum, we have managed to create innovative, shared and safe spaces for all children to acquire key life skills, learn a new language, participate in service-driven projects and develop their understanding of social issues that impact their sense of safety, livelihood and well-being. Through advocacy projects such as this mural painting exercise, as a society, we are able to visibly witness these acquired skills in practice and interact with their passion as young agents of social change.”

Marvin Tewari, Chairman of the Protec Group, emphasised the crucial role of peacebuilding initiatives with children and youth in combating crime. He explained,

“Adults are profoundly influenced by the values and behaviours they acquire during childhood. By guiding young people along positive developmental paths, fostering teamwork and camaraderie, and enhancing their skills through fun and creative means, we not only significantly reduce their likelihood of engaging in criminal activities but also contribute to shaping a more skilled and responsible future workforce and citizenry. We are happy to support the exceptional efforts of the Heroes Foundation and hope that more corporate entities will join us in supporting the development of children and youth in Trinidad and Tobago.”

PARTICIPANTS IN THIS PROJECT WERE FROM THE FOLLOWING GROUPS

  • Belmont Secondary School
  • Diego Martin North Secondary School
  • Heroes Generation to Generation Council

 

  • Marabella North Secondary School
  • Southeast Port-of-Spain Secondary School
  • Woodbrook Secondary School
  • The Heroes Foundation Child Friendly Spaces
CHILDREN AND YOUTH SCORE BIG AT THE REPUBLIC BANK CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE

CHILDREN AND YOUTH SCORE BIG AT THE REPUBLIC BANK CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE

CHILDREN AND YOUTH SCORE BIG AT THE REPUBLIC BANK CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE

9th September, 2023 – Tarouba:  Five hundred (500) young people are all in for the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) thanks to Bank’s Power to Make a Difference (PMAD) and The Heroes Foundation.  Filling the stands at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy with youthful excitement, energy, and rhythm, young people from fourteen (14) secondary schools, community groups, and children’s homes united in their shared curiosity and passion for cricket.

Championed by the Heroes Foundation, this initiative is designed to expose children and youth to experiences beyond their regular environment, while fostering relationship-building and a sense of community within a fun and safe space.  The Heroes Foundation empowers children and youth to find the hero within themselves to overcome life’s challenges and collaboratively enhance their communities and country.  They achieve this through a blend of long-term development and mentorship programmes, facilitating access to life and technical skills development opportunities, and empowering youth to spearhead education and behaviour change projects in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Brian Lara with young cricket fans at the SAVE launch with the Heroes Foundation

Heroes Foundation particiants at the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League

Lawrence Arjoon, CEO of The Heroes Foundation, shared his thoughts on the impact of this collaboration:

“Many of the young people joining us this weekend may not have had the chance to experience international events like the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League on their own. For some, this is their very first major event outside their immediate community. We are deeply grateful when partners such as Republic Bank and CPL recognise the immense value and lasting impact such opportunities have on the lives of our young generation.”

Arjoon further elaborated on the event’s significance, stating,

“Bringing together diverse groups and individuals with whom we work allows them to uncover commonalities and shared interests while fostering national pride and unity. These CPL games offer them a platform to celebrate, share, and learn together while establishing connections for future collaborations through our programmes, youth-led projects, and their personal interests. This weekend is all about enabling cricket-loving youth from across our nation to witness the potential that can be unlocked in the sport through perseverance, commitment, and dedication. It also provides them with a glimpse into the array of skills and talents required to support grand events like this, from officials and medical personnel to ground support, creative performers, and professionals in hospitality, media, logistics, security, and many other important functions they see. Together, we are inspiring young minds to dream big and appreciate the significance of teamwork, professionalism, and kindness in every facet of life.”

Hard at work – Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation CEO at the SAVE launch

Reena Panchorie (Republic Bank), Lawrence Arjoon (Heroes) and participants at the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League

Reena Gopaul, Manager, Group Brand Management, Group Marketing and Communications at Republic Bank, offered insight into the collaboration, saying,,

“Given our substantial investment in the future of cricket as the Title Sponsor and Official Bank of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League and our flagship Power to Make A Difference corporate social responsibility initiative, it was only natural that we marry the two to create an unforgettable and impactful experience for these children. This partnership with the Heroes Foundation is just one of the many ways in which we aim to foster youth development and enrichment through sport via our PMAD programme”.

Republic Bank PMAD and The Heroes Foundation are proud to be driving positive youth engagement and grateful for the partners helping to share brighter futures for the Caribbean through the power of sports and community.

OUR PARTICIPANTS

  • D Eastern Cricket Academy
  • Diego Martin North Secondary School
  • El Dorado Police Youth Club
  • Heroes Generation to Generation Council
  • Marabella North Secondary School
  • Mayaro Past Student’s Association
  • Mayaro Secondary School
  • Sangre Grande Development Foundation
National Queens with children at the Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation SAVE launch

Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago with Heroes participants at the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League

  • Shockers Sports Club, Guayaguayare
  • Siparia Deltones
  • Siparia Police Youth Club
  • Dominic’s Children’s Home
  • James Police Youth Club
  • The Heroes Foundation Child Friendly Spaces
  • WHYFarm
National Queens with children at the Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation SAVE launch

Stephon Flemine with Heroes particants at the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League

British High Commission and Heroes Foundation “Conversations on sports and mental well being”

British High Commission and Heroes Foundation “Conversations on sports and mental well being”

British High Commission and Heroes Foundation “Conversations on sports and mental-well-being”

9th August 2023 – Port-of-Spain: British High Commission and Heroes Foundation hosted “Conversations on Sports and Mental Health” at Queen’s Hall, which brought together sporting greats from Trinidad and Tobago and Commonwealth Youth Games athletes from Trinidad and Tobago, England, Scotland and Anguilla. The event was
sponsored by Proman, with its brilliant team of 30 volunteers and Angostura.

The Heroes Foundation, which inspires and empowers children and youth to find the hero within themselves and to build a safe and sustainable future brought over 400 youths from 14 organisations throughout Trinidad and Tobago, including rural communities to the sessions. It was one of the largest sessions of this nature in recent times and showed the value of collaboration and coming together in empowering and supporting youth for a better future.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from Her Excellency, British High Commissioner Harriet Cross who said “ Sports can have a profound and positive impact on mental well-being, including improving your mood and fostering discipline. It can bring together communities, help forge lifelong friendships and take you to different places. The athletes will share with you how they have dealt with successes and failures and how sports play a role in their mental well-being.” David Roberts, Permanent Secretary (a.i) of Ministry of Sports and Community Development, in his remarks, reminded the youth that “they were all winners and have much to contribute to wider communities and
society”.

Brian Lara with young cricket fans at the SAVE launch with the Heroes Foundation

PHOTO: Ryan Bachoo, in conversation with Thema Williams; Cleopatra Borel Brown; Jehue Gordon; and Rayad Emrit

The first session was facilitated by multimedia journalist, producer and anchor, Ryan Bachoo, in conversation with Thema Williams, the first gymnast to represent Trinidad and Tobago at a world championship; Cleopatra Borel Brown, shot putter and 2014 Sportswoman of the Year Award recipient; Jehue Gordon, multiple medalled track and field athlete and team leader of the Trinidad and Tobago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games; and Rayad Emrit, West Indies all-rounder, who toured India with the squad, and who was included in Stanford Superstars squad for the Stanford 20/20 for 20.

Hard at work – Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation CEO at the SAVE launch

PHOTO: Chinali Patel, in conversation with multiple medal winners, Nikoli Blackman; Matthew Ward and Holly McGill; Nick Finch and Skye Carter; and Sage Connor

The second session was facilitated by British High Commission Head of Political and Press, Chinali Patel, in conversation with multiple medal winners, Nikoli Blackman from Trinidad and Tobago; Matthew Ward and Holly McGill from Scotland; Nick Finch and Skye Carter from England, who also set new Commonwealth Youth Games records; and Sage Connor from Anguilla who qualified to the semi-final stages in athletics at the Games.

Speaking at the event, Heroes Foundation CEO thanked the athletes for sharing their powerful and inspiring stories and encouraged the young participants to work hard towards their dream.

He noted, “Young people have the power to shape an extraordinary world. It starts by believing in yourself, and then, by collaborating and by being responsible global citizens. The impact of sports goes beyond just the games. You’re building communities, your developing critical skills, and you’re doing it together. Imagine what else you can achieve by working together, learning from one another and those who have gone before you, sharing your diverse perspectives and skills to help solve complex problems.”

The sessions received an overwhelming response. Various questions were put to the athletes from youth on how they dealt with anxiety, daily pressures, leading a happy life, effects of social media and preparing for games to more light hearted questions on music they like listening to get them motivated ahead of a game, diet of a sportsperson and their favourite memories of Trinidad and Tobago.

There was also a short and engaging quiz, testing the youth on what they had learned from the sessions including some fun giveaway prizes. The energy, community spirit and love for sports was felt throughout which made the sessions hugely memorable.

OUR PARTICIPANTS – AUDIENCE

  • The Heroes Foundation
  • Scouts TT
  • WHYFarm
  • Mayaro Past Student’s Association
  • No Youth Left Behind
  • Ryu Dan Empowerment Foundation
  • St. Dominic’s Children’s Home
  • D Eastern Cricket Academy
  • Birdsong Academy
  • Sangre Grande Development Foundation
  • NiNa Young Women’s Leadership Programme
  • UWI Guild
  • St. James Police Youth Club
  • Tranquility Secondary School

PHOTO: Nikoli Blackman with PROMAN Foundation

National Queens with children at the Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation SAVE launch

PHOTO: Dr. Maryam Abdool-Richards and Nikoli Blackman with D Eastern Cricket Academy

Brian Lara and the Heroes Foundation launch “SAVE”

Brian Lara and the Heroes Foundation launch “SAVE”

“Sport Against Violent Energy” introduces 1,500 young people to cricket.

24th July 2023 – Port-of-Spain:  Cricket legend Brian Lara and the Trinidad and Tobago-based Heroes Foundation have joined forces for a transformative sport and youth development initiative called ‘SAVE’ – Sport Against Violent Energy.

The initiative was launched during the West Indies vs India test match at the Queens Park Oval in Trinidad on Friday, where fifteen hundred (1,500) local and migrant youth attendees were introduced to the wonderful world of cricket.

United by a shared vision to leverage sport and youth development to create positive change, SAVE aims to highlight the pivotal role that sports play in nurturing future generations, fostering vibrant communities, and ultimately making significant strides in curbing negative influences.

The launch received overwhelming support from what was the largest youth crowd in the oval, with young attendees coming from thirty-two (32) Secondary Schools and Civil-Society Organisations from across the country.

This united front of young people and communities emphasised the appeal and value of sports in empowering youth while rallying thunderous support and pride for both the West Indies and Indian cricket teams.  The event also provided an incredible opportunity for attendees to engage with local and international icons, including the legendary Brian Lara himself, former West Indies Cricketer, Dinanath Ramnarine, Miss World Trinidad and Tobago Aché Abrahams, and Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago Faith Gillezeau.

Brian Lara with young cricket fans at the SAVE launch with the Heroes Foundation

PHOTO: Brian Lara with young cricket fans at the SAVE launch with the Heroes Foundation

Speaking during the launch, Lara expressed his commitment to the region’s development.

“I have witnessed the transformative power of sports for young people, families, and communities across the world, especially when consistent support is provided. My stepping stone into cricket began on Sundays at the Harvard Coaching Clinic, which ignited my passion for the sport and played a crucial role in my character and skills development. I want more young people to have similar opportunities. While they have more distractions today than when I was growing up, I am excited about the positive impact we can create through SAVE and the work of the Heroes Foundation.

Together, across our region, we can foster a new generation of sportsmen and sportswomen who will make us all proud as both skilled players and responsible global citizens.  Collaboration among clubs, foundations, academies, governments, and corporates, all working in the best interest of our youth, is essential for achieving this vision. I am grateful for the support we received for this launch event, especially from our sponsors, and look forward to the work we will do together.”

Founded in 2002, the Heroes Foundation is dedicated to empowering children and youth to find the hero within themselves and become positive change agents in their schools, communities, and countries. By implementing long-term development programmes and skills-development initiatives, Heroes helps address psychosocial and socioeconomic barriers that hinder their development and creates safe spaces where they can build a sense of community, collaborate, and support each other grow.

Hard at work – Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation CEO at the SAVE launch

PHOTO: Hard at work – Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation CEO at the SAVE launch

Chief Executive Officer of the Heroes Foundation, Lawrence Arjoon, expressed appreciation for Brian Lara’s commitment to long-term development work.

We’re motivated by the positive transformation seen in the thousands of young people who have gone through our programmes in safe, supportive environments over the past twenty years. With Brian Lara’s leadership, we are excited by the expanded opportunities SAVE will provide for young people to grow and thrive.

When heroes like Brian Lara support young people by sharing their stories, experiences, and efforts, they inspire the next generation to dream big, believe in themselves, and find courage despite their challenges. The youth participation and support at Friday’s game and launch is a testament to that.”

Lara and Heroes extend their heartfelt gratitude to all supporters and partners for the launch of SAVE who believe in the power of sports to shape a brighter future for our region’s youth:

OUR SPONSORS:

  • The West Indies Cricket Board
  • National Lotteries Control Board
  • JMMB Bank
  • Visa Inc. Marketing
  • Blue Waters
  • Victor and Sally Moutet Foundation
  • Kalloo’s Auto Rentals, Taxi Service & Tours
  • The Pan-American Development Foundation
  • Gravitas Business Solutions
  • Blewstream Group
  • The Lara Agency
  • Fides Limited
  • Price Chopper Inc
Young cricket fans at the SAVE launch with Brian Lara and the Heroes Foundation

PHOTO: Young cricket fans at the SAVE launch with Brian Lara and the Heroes Foundation

OUR PARTICIPANTS

  • AMMR Child Friendly Spaces – Carapichima
  • AMMR Child Friendly Spaces – Moruga
  • AMMR Child Friendly Spaces – Penal
  • Belmont Secondary School
  • Bishop Anstey High School East
  • createfuturegood
  • D Eastern Cricket Academy
  • Diego Martin North Secondary School
  • Families in Action
  • Five Rivers Secondary School
  • Heroes Foundation Child Friendly Spaces
  • Holy Faith Convent, Penal
  • LARMS
  • Marabella South Secondary School
  • NiNa Young Women Leadership Programme
  • Rainbow Rescue
  • Ryu Dan Empowerment Foundation
  • Sangre Grande Development Foundation
  • Savonetta Primary School
  • Siparia Deltones Steel Orchestra
  • Siparia West Secondary School
  • Southeast Port of Spain Secondary School
  • St. Dominic’s Children Home
  • St. James Police Youth Club
  • St. Mary’s Children’s Home
  • Success Laventille Secondary School
  • Tranquillity Government Secondary School
  • Trinity College, East
  • Trinity College, Moka
  • We Say Yes Organisation
  • Why Farm
  • Woodbrook Secondary School

    OUR SUPPORTERS

    • Miss World Trinidad and Tobago, Aché Abrahams
    • Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago, Faith Gillezeau.
    • Top Model of the World T&T, Latifah Morris
    • Crowns and Sashes Trinidad and Tobago
    • Dinanath Ramnarine
    National Queens with children at the Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation SAVE launch

    PHOTO: National Queens with children at the Brian Lara and Heroes Foundation SAVE launch

    Heroes, BBC Foster Youth Civic Engagement and Media Exploration

    Heroes, BBC Foster Youth Civic Engagement and Media Exploration

    6th June, 2023, Port-of-Spain – The Heroes Foundation joined forces with BBC World Questions on Monday to empower young people in Trinidad and Tobago to explore their role in democracy, express their views on important issues, and discover potential careers within the local and global media industry. The BBC team is visiting Trinidad and Tobago to record an edition of World Questions, and the Heroes Foundation worked with them on a non-broadcast event to foster civic engagement, amplify youth voices, and provide valuable insights into the exciting world of media.

    BBC World Questions is a debate series from the BBC World Service which engages audiences in conversations about democracy, governance, and current affairs. Through live events, broadcasts, and online discussions, BBC World Questions promotes dialogue and encourages diverse voices to be heard worldwide. BBC World Service English Radio broadcasts an edition of the programme every month.

    During an interactive session led by Charlie Taylor, Series Producer for BBC World Questions, secondary and tertiary level school students passionately shared their perspectives on the rights and freedoms they enjoy as citizens.  Students emphasised the importance of upholding human rights, respecting all members of society, ensuring transparency and accountability, and including youth voices in decision-making processes as critical components of a thriving democracy. They echoed a strong desire for honest and respectful engagement among all parties in Trinidad and Tobago especially towards addressing critical issues such as crime, abuse, and development for all people.

    Joining the event was Asha Javeed, Lead Editor – Investigative, Guardian Media Limited, who shared her valuable guidance with aspiring young journalists and media professionals. Drawing from her experiences and insights, Asha provided a comprehensive understanding of the local media landscape and emphasised the critical role a free press plays in ensuring democracy and fuelling critical thinking.  Her presence further enriched the event, inspiring the youth to become active contributors to society through the power of media.

    “Heroes is proud to work with BBC World Questions in this empowering and unique opportunity for youth in Trinidad and Tobago,” said Lawrence J. Arjoon, Chief Executive Officer of The Heroes Foundation. He emphasised, “Young people play a critical role in ensuring the vibrancy, resilience, and relevance of democratic systems. Their open feedback today demonstrated that they bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a unique set of experiences that enable a more comprehensive understanding of societal challenges that can foster creative solutions for positive change. As future leaders, young people have a long-term stake in shaping the direction of our society. They are more likely to consider the consequences of decisions made today on future generations, and their active engagement in democracy helps ensure that policies and actions are aligned with sustainable development and the well-being of future populations.”

    Charlie Taylor, Series Producer World Questions, noted, “It has been a privilege for all of us to work with the Heroes Foundation on this special event.  World Questions champions freedom of speech by recording public-led debates with politicians on location across the world. This is the first time we have worked with an audience drawn from schools.  I found it inspiring to engage with such passionate and articulate young Trinidadians who are ready to make their thoughts and feelings known on a number of important issues.” The Heroes Foundation’s work with BBC World Questions is yet another example of our innovative dedication to empowering youth and nurturing a culture of constructive civic engagement. By equipping young people with the necessary knowledge, skills, and opportunities, Trinidad and Tobago’s youth are poised to become informed, engaged, and active participants in shaping the future of their communities and county.

    Heroes is grateful to everyone who supported the successful delivery of this event, especially:

    • The Office of the Prime Minister – Communications
    • The Ministry of Education
    • The Urban Development Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (UDeCOTT)
    • The Bocas Lit Fest
    • Principals, Vice Principles, and Liaisons Teachers of the following schools:
      • Diego Martin North Secondary School
      • Holy Faith Convent, Penal
      • Marabella South Secondary School
      • Siparia West Secondary School
      • Southeast Port-of-Spain Secondary School
      • Success Laventille Secondary School
      • Tranquillity Secondary School
      • Woodbrook Secondary School
    • Parents and guardians of students in our programme
    • All secondary and tertiary level students who attending.
    FUTURE FORUM – SAFETY AND SECURITY

    FUTURE FORUM – SAFETY AND SECURITY

    On Monday 30th January 2023, Kaleb Palmer and Kevin Gonzales of the Heroes Generation to Generation Council engaged Minister of National Security, Fitzgerald Hinds and Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Communications Manager, Joanne Archie, on safety and security.

    Kaleb and Kevin highlighted that opportunities for youth are essential in the fight against crime. They want job opportunities and consistent engagement between the protective service and young people.

    Minister Hinds and Ms. Archie agree with them. They’ve stressed the importance of community policing initiatives and working together with communities to find the necessary solutions.

    Future Forum connects children and youth with government and industry leaders to include their voices in national development discussions. This year’s Future Forum is being delivered in collaboration with the NOW Morning Show.

    The video below contains the entire discussion.