BAVINA SOOKDEO
Inspired by the stories of both her grandmothers’ struggles against a patriarchal society and her own experiences of facing discrimination, Anu M Bissessar became actively involved in advocacy initiatives.
Bissessar is a mindfulness psychologist, with a master’s in psychology and the neuroscience of mental health.
Her upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping her values and aspirations. Raised in a family where education was highly valued, with a psychiatrist father, a high-school-teacher mother, and an obstetrician/gynaecologist sister, Bissessar was immersed in discussions on various topics from politics to sports.
She attributes her sense of purpose to her family’s influence, particularly her father’s academic guidance and her mother’s nurturing nature. Bissessar’s sister served as a role model for integrity and determination.
“I became actively involved in psychology by volunteering in the Rape Crisis Society and the Domestic Violence Coalition” she said. “I thought that reinforcing women’s mindsets and cognitive capabilities is the key to an overall healthier lifestyle being achieved.”
Currently, Bissessar is in establishing an NGO focused on promoting mental strength, peace and safety among women and girls through mindfulness practices. Men can also join the cause.
Additionally, she is a director of CrownHerTT, the NGO led by Dr Nadira Rambocas. “Our mission is to educate young girls and women on menstrual hygiene and period poverty that is prevalent in TT, in a nutshell.”
She prioritises inclusion and diversity.
“This is not hard to do in Trinidad, in my opinion,” she noted. “We have many races, ages, abilities, faiths, body images and identifications in our country.
“As such, whenever events are held, I make sure that all activities are easily accessible and friendly. I disclaim before every event that discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated, and persons with such an agenda will be asked to leave. I also hold online mindfulness sessions that anyone can join in on.”
Despite facing scepticism from some quarters, particularly men, Bissessar remained undeterred.
“I have encountered men trying to discourage my drive to bring mindfulness mainstream to Trinidad, as I was told that my profession was not feasible nor logical. I just ignored their verbal comments, and pressed on to create something that I knew was needed here.”
Bissessar’s personal motto, “Kindness and respect, always,” guides her approach to life and advocacy work. She envisions a world where mindfulness is embraced by all genders, leading to increased awareness, improved cognitive capabilities and greater inclusion of women and girls. Through peace within oneself and the environment, she believes meaningful change can be achieved.
Asked to share her most significant accomplishments or milestones, Bissessar said, “Checking in on my clients and hearing that they have improved and are thriving because of my analysis and encouragement. For example, there are many clients I see with high amounts of
