Unexpected but greatly appreciated was how several awardees described receiving a national award after two years without a ceremony due to the pandemic.
The National Awards ceremony took place at the National Academy for the Performing Arts, Port of Spain on Saturday night, with 63 people from all aspects of society getting awards for their contributions to TT.
Martin Terry Rondon, the longest serving local government representative in TT, received the Hummingbird gold medal, after 27 years of public service.
The former Sangre Grande Regional Corporation chairman and councillor for Valencia East/Toco, was beloved by his constituents and was known for his assistance to other elected officials, NGOs, and citizens throughout TT.
Rondon told Sunday Newsday he “felt great” about the award and dedicated it to the people from Matura to Matelot for their support.
“I dedicate it especially to the people of Matelot, where I was born and raised, and who gave me that spiritual upbringing, who taught me how to share and give, and have respect for the elderly.
“I am humbled. I never thought I would one day reach a stage where I would be rewarded with something like this. Everything I was doing, I did it from my heart. I always pray for my people and ask God to give me so I could give to and help people because it’s a joy to help others.”
He said he had surgery on his spine earlier this year and he was having pains but that would not stop him from going to receive his award. He also planned to go to Matelot on Sunday to see what could be done about the landslide blocking the road there. He refused to let anything stop him.
Marina Salandy-Brown, founder and president of Bocas Lit Fest received the Hummingbird silver medal.
The journalist, broadcaster, and cultural activist founded the country’s only annual literary festival and had been involved in the development of TT’s literary and cinematic arts for years. As a result, many local and regional writers received support and recognition, and went on to be published and win international prizes.
Salandy-Brown, a Newsday columnist, said she was a bit surprised about the news as journalists were often overlooked for such awards because they said difficult things, but she was pleased.
“I’m pleased that the work we have been trying to do is recognised. I know many people recognise it but this is a kind of official stamp of approval. I very much don’t see this as an award to me alone, but an award to all the people I’ve worked with over the past 12 years who, without them, nothing would have happened.”
[caption id="attachment_976845" align="alignnone" width="890"] Sharon Rowley, wife of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, greets Dr Gabrielle Hosein, recipient of the Medal for the Development of Women at NAPA, Port of Spain on Saturday. - SUREASH CHOLAI[/caption]
She congratulated the past and present members of the Bocas Lit Fest team saying they believed in the work they were doing and work
