Mentorship in Motion: HRMATT’s Youth Programme Inspires a New Generation
On Saturday, April 11, 2026, the Cipriani College of Co-operative and Labour Studies was filled with pride, reflection, and celebration as the Human Resource Management Association of Trinidad and Tobago (HRMATT) hosted the graduation ceremony for its Youth Mentorship Programme.
The event, chaired by Desmond Lawrence, HRMATT PR Director, was more than a formal ceremony. It was a testament to the transformative power of mentorship. Over the past six months, mentees engaged in structured masterclasses, one-on-one guidance, and collaborative projects, all designed to nurture clarity of purpose and professional growth.

A Call to Nation Building
In her opening remarks, HRMATT President Cavelle Joseph St-Omer urged attendees to pause and reflect on the journey. She described mentorship as a “strategic intention in nation building,” emphasizing the four Cs — Connection, Clarity, Compassion, and Commitment. These values, she explained, are not only essential for personal success but also for building stronger communities. She praised Programme Coordinator and HRMATT’s Assistant Secretary / Assistant Director, Adesia Orie for her stewardship, noting that the programme’s success was rooted in teamwork and dedication.
Her words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding mentors and mentees alike that they are “carriers of the legacy,” charged with passing on knowledge, values, and opportunities to others.

Lessons from a Village
The featured speaker, Angelo Austin, CEO of Xtra Foods Supermarket Ltd, delivered a powerful and personal address. He traced his own journey through mentorship, beginning with his mother, who instilled faith, perseverance, and spiritual grounding. He recalled lessons from business leaders and community figures, including the late Vindra Naipaul-Coolman, who taught him that “success and greatness are for all of us and in all of us.”
Austin emphasized that mentorship is not a solitary act but a collective responsibility: “It takes a village to raise a child.” He reminded mentees that while technology and artificial intelligence provide tools, “nothing happens if you don’t do the work.” His message was clear; success requires humility, discipline, and a deep connection to one’s roots.

Celebrating Achievements
The ceremony also highlighted HRMATT’s broader mission of professional development. Allsha Long presented information on HRMATT membership, encouraging mentees to continue their growth within the Association’s network.
Certificates of completion were awarded to mentees by HRMATT Directors, marking the culmination of months of dedication. The presentation was followed by closing remarks from Adesia Orie, who expressed gratitude to mentors, sponsors, and partners. Tokens of appreciation were presented to the featured speaker and masterclass hosts, underscoring HRMATT’s culture of recognition and collaboration.
Corporate Support and Community Impact
The programme’s success was made possible through the support of corporate sponsors. Prestige Holdings Limited (KFC and Subway), Acado Limited, and Damian Luk Pat contributed to the initiative, while special prizes were coordinated by Georgia Donaldson. Their involvement highlighted the importance of private-sector partnerships in youth development.
By investing in mentorship, these organizations demonstrated a commitment to nurturing future leaders who will shape Trinidad and Tobago’s workforce and society.

A Legacy of Excellence
As the morning concluded with group photos, the atmosphere was one of pride and optimism. Mentees left not only with certificates but with renewed confidence, clarity, and purpose. Mentors, too, found their own sense of fulfillment, having guided the next generation through a journey of growth.
The HRMATT Youth Mentorship Programme stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when intention meets action. It is a reminder that mentorship is not the end of a journey, but the beginning of a legacy – one that will ripple across workplaces, communities, and the nation.

Thank you to our amazing mentors and masterclass facilitators
Thank you to our mentors and masterclass facilitators

Mentors Natasha Graham-Joachim, Denise Zephrine, Lisa Ramjattan, Makada Joseph, Savita Olivia Harrylal, Shelly Colai, Charlene Pedro, Oneika John, Stacey-Ann Roopchand, Devika Sammy, Hyacinth Guy, Indira Couch, Malika Shade, Nicolette Brathwaite, Natalia Joseph, Kelly-Anne Amin, Nadini Mahabir, Fallon Estrado, Keisha Alexander ,Samantha Boisselle, Shannah Salick, Marlene Gomez

Facilitators
• Althea O’Garro
• Amelia Samai-Nicome
• Keisha Alexander
• Wendy Joseph
• Irwin Williams
• Akaash Mohan
• Candace Monique Magloire