Trinidad and Tobago Mental Health Conference & Award Ceremony (TTMHC2025) Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2025

Trinidad and Tobago Association of Psychologists Hosts Inaugural National Mental Health Conference and Awards Ceremony

Port of Spain, Trinidad – The Trinidad and Tobago Association of Psychologists (TTAP) successfully hosted the Trinidad and Tobago Mental Health Conference and Awards Ceremony (TTMHC) at the Radisson Hotel, marking a landmark event in the advancement of mental health awareness, collaboration, and recognition in Trinidad and Tobago.

The conference was conceived to strengthen partnerships across sectors, promote evidence-based practice, and celebrate outstanding contributions to mental health and wellbeing. This biennial event brought together leaders and practitioners from psychology, psychiatry, social work, medicine, and nursing, as well as cultural and community advocates, to engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of mental health in the nation.

The opening ceremony, live-streamed to a regional and international audience, featured a moving rendition of the national anthem by the Solaris Choir, followed by a welcome address by TTAP President Kelly Mc Farlane. Greetings were then delivered by Dr. Maysa Akbar, Chief Diversity Officer of the American Psychological Association (APA); Dr. Katija Khan, President of the Caribbean Alliance of National Psychological Associations (CANPA); Dr. Ava Thompson, Secretary-General of the International Union of Psychological Science (IUPsyS); Samantha Griffith, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Social Workers; and Dr. Varma Deyalsingh, Independent Senator and Past President of the Trinidad and Tobago Psychiatric Association.

In his opening remarks, The Honourable Dr. Lackram Bodoe, Minister of Health, commended TTAP for its continued leadership and collaboration in advancing mental health care across the country. He highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing initiatives to improve mental health services and access to care, citing the U-Matter Chatline, the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, and the upcoming 24/7 Community Crisis Response Teams. The Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to “breaking barriers and building resilience” as part of a collective national movement to ensure mental wellbeing is accessible to every citizen. He also expressed support for establishing licensure for psychologists in Trinidad and Tobago.

The day’s proceedings continued with a full schedule of research presentations, informative discussions, and dynamic panel sessions featuring leading professionals in mental health, medicine, education, and labour from Trinidad and Tobago, other Caribbean islands, and the USA. Dr. Hollis “Chalkdust” Liverpool and Mr. Wendell Manwarren shared powerful reflections during a panel discussion on the relationship between culture and mental wellbeing.

Distinguished panelists included Professor Gerard Hutchinson, Head of Psychiatry, The University of the West Indies; Dr. Hazel Othello, Director of Mental Health, Ministry of Health; Dr. Samuel Shafe, Consultant Psychiatrist; Dr. Dianne Douglas, Clinical Psychologist and Organisational Consultant; Mr. Michael Anisette, President of the Seamen and Waterfront Workers Trade Union; Dr. Navi Murudali, Medical Doctor and CEO of Patient Connect; Dr. Shelene Gomes, Sociocultural Anthropologist; Dr. Talia Esnard, Sociologist & Department Chair, Behavioural Sciences at UWI; Mr. Rhondall Feeles, President of the Single Fathers Association; and several other established professionals. The conference was hosted by seasoned broadcaster and journalist Dike Rostant, whose moderation brought insight and cohesion to the day’s discussions.

The event culminated in a national awards ceremony celebrating the contributions of individuals and organisations that have made a meaningful difference in advancing mental health and social wellbeing in Trinidad and Tobago. Awards were presented across multiple categories, recognising excellence in service to youth, advocacy, research, public education, and community service. The ceremony offered an uplifting conclusion to a day filled with inspiration, gratitude, and renewed commitment to building a healthier, more resilient nation.

The TTMHC was conceptualised and project-led by TTAP President Kelly Mc Farlane and brought to life through the dedication of the TTMHC Planning Committee, comprising Victoria Siewnarine-Geelalsingh, Idrees Hosein, Isaiah Lutchman, Shivana Hosein, Stephanie Sam, Vishal Boodram, Shani Friday, and Denielle Placide. The committee expressed heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming participation and support from both local and international attendees.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Mc Farlane stated, “This event was truly a collaborative effort, a testament to what can be achieved when professionals unite under a shared purpose. Our goal is to keep breaking barriers, reducing stigma, and fostering a culture where mental health is valued as an essential part of national development.”

The Trinidad and Tobago Association of Psychologists extends its gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and attendees who contributed to the success of the event, and looks forward to an even larger and more impactful conference in 2027.

Media Contact:
Trinidad and Tobago Association of Psychologists (TTAP)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (868) 794-8827
Website: www.psychologytt.org

AWARD WINNERS
Service to Child & Youth Psychosocial Development – Dr. Katija Khan
Youth Mental Health Champion – Ronia Swan
Community Impact Award in Mental Health – NiNa Young Women’s Leadership Program
Public Education, Awareness & Advocacy in Mental Health – Dr. Alina Williams
Service to Vulnerable Populations – Dr. Krystal-Jane Verasammy
Excellence in Mental Health Research – Professor Gerard Hutchinson
Technological Innovation in Mental Health – UMatter Trinidad & Tobago
Media & Journalism Advancing Mental Health Awareness – Dike Rostant

NB: In addition to the above nominees who received awards, several associations also presented their own presidential awards, and special TTAP figures were recognized.