United Way Trinidad and Tobago is pleased to share key moments from the past quarter, highlighting continued work in youth development, community resiliency, and regional solidarity. This update also reflects some of the important initiatives that took place earlier in the year, providing a full picture of the journey so far.
Youth Opportunity: Creating Pathways for Learning and Growth
Supporting young people remains one of the most important pillars of United Way’s mission. Earlier this year, 13 teachers across 7 Building Bridges schools completed the NOW (Neurodevelopment of Words) refresher training, strengthening their ability to help children read to learn by age eight. Participating schools included Cocorite Government, Belmont Boys RC, Patna River Estate Government, St. David’s RC, Patience Hill Government (Tobago), Mt. D’Or Government, and Nelson Street Boys RC Primary Schools.
These efforts form a critical part of long-term youth opportunity, ensuring every child has a fair chance to succeed.
Community Resiliency: Empowering Families and Supporting Homes
Community strengthening continued throughout the year, including targeted support for residential homes.
In January, Woodside Energy generously donated 8 dozen bed sheets, which were distributed to Sophia House, Rainbow Rescue, Raffa House, and Casa de Corazon. This contribution benefitted 50 children, improving the comfort and care provided within these community residences.
Investments like these help build resilience at the household level, supporting the wellbeing of families and children across the country.
Fostering Creativity: Music at St. David’s RC Primary School
In partnership with MIC-IT, UWTT supported the St. David’s RC Primary School in expanding its music programme. Students received a set of steelpan instruments on loan, and MIC-IT further pledged a volunteer instructor to strengthen the school’s growing music initiative.
This collaboration nurtures creativity, discipline, and cultural pride, giving students direct access to music education and performance opportunities.
Strategic Session 2025: Planning for Impact
The volunteer Board and Staff of United Way Trinidad and Tobago convened for the 2025 Strategic Session to distill research and refine approaches that will strengthen service to communities nationwide.
Present were leadership including Chair Ian L Benjamin, Vice Chair Vincent Pereira, and Board Directors Karen Darbasie, Jean Andre Celestain, Karen Yip Chuck, Simon Aqui, Mitchell De Silva, Hazel Douglas, Simone Thorne, and Colin Wharfe.
This session ensures the organisation’s work remains grounded, focused, and aligned with evolving stakeholder needs.
Standing with the Region: Our Hearts Are With Jamaica
The devastation in Jamaica continues to impact families across the Caribbean. United Way Trinidad and Tobago stands in solidarity with Jamaica during this difficult time. Our support remains steadfast, guided by compassion and the belief that regional unity is essential in moments of crisis.
A Night to Remember: The United Is The Way Gala
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact
On Sunday, October 19th, 2025, supporters gathered for a historic moment:
United Way Trinidad and Tobago’s first-ever gala, marking 25 years of service dedicated to strengthening communities, transforming lives, and building a brighter Trinidad and Tobago.
Your presence, enthusiasm, and generosity made this milestone celebration unforgettable.
With Heartfelt Gratitude
A sincere thank you to our Platinum Sponsors:
Atlantic LNG, First Citizens, Hyatt Regency, Republic Bank, Scotiabank
Our Bronze Sponsors:
Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago, The Massy Group, Pan-American Life Insurance Group
And our Additional Sponsors:
Citi, Naughty Grape, Massy Distribution, Vintage Imports Ltd, Southern Sales & Service Co. Ltd., Angostura Limited, LOOK Opticians Limited
We also extend special appreciation to partners who supported production, logistics, and event execution, including Another Idea, Media 22, Necessary Arts, Devi Nath Photography, Kevon Carter, Iceman, MITTCO, Meena House, The BRIX, Sew-Rite Variety Store, CARIB Brewery, Nestlé, and Very Exciting Things.
Together, each contribution helped bring this celebration to life.
Looking Ahead
These past months have shown what is possible when communities, sponsors, partners, volunteers, and supporters come together with purpose.
From strengthening classrooms to uplifting families, from embracing regional unity to celebrating 25 years of impact—the journey continues with gratitude and optimism.
Together, we look forward to building a future filled with hope, unity, and opportunity for all.