In a world where achievements often go unrecognised, the Human Resource Management Association of Trinidad & Tobago (HRMATT) Legacy Awards stands out as a beacon of honour, celebrating individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to the profession and who exemplify the increasingly strategic role of HR in business today. Established in 2022 the HRMATT Legacy Awards has honoured HR professionals, advocates and organisations from a wide array of companies who have helped shape work and business for employees across T&T.
In 2024, as dramatic change continues at workplaces everywhere, it’s even more important to point out those who are innovating and reinventing HR for the good of the industry.
As HRMATT celebrates 35 years this year, the board of directors chose to celebrate this momentous occasion with the launch of a commemorative anniversary logo competition. Designs were received from nine designers, with Smith Designs emerging as the winner. The winning design was unveiled at the HRMATT Legacy Awards Media Launch on August 14, 2024, at HYATT Regency Trinidad.
Now in our third year, the HRMATT Legacy Awards recognises the impact that HR professionals deliver to their organisations. Through rigorous review of applications across multiple categories, our awards have consistently raised the bar for HR professionals by putting a spotlight on HR’s demonstrations of excellence. The primary objective of the Legacy Awards is to highlight the importance of altruism, innovation, and leadership in HR and its related fields. It seeks to inspire others to commit to positive change by showcasing the stories of those who have paved the way with their exemplary work. The awards celebrate a diverse range of achievements that reflect the essence of legacy-building.
At the media launch, HRMATT declared nominations open to local and regional practitioners and companies for the following nine awards, six of which are named after the founders of the association:
- Maxine Barnett Award for HR Excellence
- Glenn Wilson Award for Industrial Relations Excellence
- Gordon Draper Award for Transformation
- Lisa James Award for Learning and Development
- Coreen Jones Award for Best Place to Work
- Anthony Watkins Award for Advocacy
- Outstanding Volunteer Award
- HRMATT Regional HR Champion Award – INDIVIDUAL
- HRMATT Regional HR Champion Award – ORGANISATION
And, drum roll please … HRMATT announced the introduction of its Hall of Fame, which will be added to the annual Legacy Awards, in recognition of the association’s 35th anniversary. Five deserving individuals who have contributed to the development of human resources and/or related professions evident by their success in making positive change to the fraternity, will be honoured on November 9th, 2024.
The Legacy Awards ceremony is an annual gala attended by a diverse audience and features inspiring keynote speeches, performances, and the presentation of awards. It serves not only as a night of celebration but also as a platform for networking and collaboration among like-minded individuals committed to creating positive change. This year will be even more special, as it is the inaugural induction of the five Hall of Famers. This prestigious event will be held at HYATT Regency Trinidad.
Beyond the formal recognition, the Legacy Awards aims to create a ripple effect. Award recipients often find increased visibility and support for their causes, enabling them to further their efforts. The Legacy Awards also inspire the next generation of leaders and activists by showcasing role models who have successfully pursued their passions and made significant contributions.
As the Legacy Awards continue to grow in prominence, they serve as a vital reminder of the power of individual actions and collective efforts. In celebrating those who dare to dream and act, the awards foster a culture of volunteerism, innovation, and resilience. Each year, the Legacy Awards not only honours remarkable contributions but also ignites the spirit of legacy in each of us, encouraging us to build a better world for future generations.
