The Human Resource Management Association of Trinidad and Tobago (HRMATT) recently marked a monumental milestone with its 35th anniversary, celebrated through the prestigious 3rd Annual HR Legacy Awards at the Hyatt Regency, Port of Spain.
On Saturday, 9th November 2024, the HR community gathered to honour the remarkable contributions and innovative practices within the human resource field across the region. This distinguished event brought together HR professionals, thought leaders, and industry stakeholders for an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence and transformative contributions in HR.
A Night of Recognition and Celebration
The awards ceremony underscored HRMATT’s steadfast commitment to advancing human resource management in Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean. This year, a significant addition to the program was the launch of the HRMATT HR Hall of Fame. This new accolade honours HR professionals who have made enduring contributions to the field, recognizing five iconic leaders whose work has significantly shaped the profession.
Keynote Insights from HRMATT President
In her keynote address, HRMATT President, Mrs. Cavelle Joseph-St. Omer, commended the collective achievements of HR professionals and discussed the evolving challenges facing the field. She remarked, “This year’s Legacy Awards celebrate the powerful impact of HR in transforming lives, businesses, and communities. Together, we are redefining the role of HR as a strategic driver of organizational and societal success.”
Honouring Excellence Across Categories
The evening saw a diverse range of awards presented to outstanding HR practitioners and organizations:
Senator The Honourable Allyson West: Gordon Draper Award for Public Sector Transformation.
Ms. Gwendolyn McClaren: Maxine Barnett Award for HR Excellence.
Republic Bank Limited’s Learning and Talent Development Centre: Lisa James Award for Learning and Development.
Gachelle Gilkes-Edwards: L. Anthony Watkins Award for Advocacy.
Dr. Andre Vincent Henry: Glenn Wilson Award for Industrial Relations Excellence.
National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago: Coreen Jones Award for Best Place to Work.
Charlene Pedro: HRMATT Outstanding Volunteer of the Year
Additionally, the Regional HR Champion Awards celebrated exceptional HR practices across the Caribbean and Latin American region, with Michael Mc Anuff Jones winning in the Individual category and the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago in the Organization category.
Introducing the HR Hall of Fame
The highlight of the evening was the induction of five exceptional HR leaders into the newly established HRMATT HR Hall of Fame:
Ms. Gloria Eastman
Mr. Hollick Rajkumar
Ms. Diana Mahabir-Wyatt
Mr. Ulric Warner (posthumously)
Ms. Grace Talma
Their lifelong contributions have significantly influenced the field, setting a benchmark for excellence and inspiring future generations of HR professionals.
Community and Gratitude
With over 200 attendees, including HR directors, CEOs, government representatives, and students, the event highlighted HRMATT’s dedication to fostering an inclusive community that champions HR excellence regionally. HRMATT also expressed heartfelt gratitude to its sponsors, NLCB, Pat and Max Limited, Angostura Holdings Ltd, Xtra Foods Ltd, and Agostini’s Ltd, and to its numerous contributors and media partners whose support made the evening possible.
The 3rd Annual HR Legacy Awards not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for future advancements in human resource management, reinforcing HRMATT’s role as a leader in the field.
View photos of the event here
