Trinidad and Tobago is once again on the prestigious map of global creative excellence, as daughter of the soil Tenille Clarke, has been named the recipient of the Cultural Impact Award for the 2025 edition of the Toast Gala in the British Virgin Islands.
The star-studded affair – which is scheduled for Saturday 2 August, and hosted by social impact organization Kickin It – will also present awards to acclaimed American actress, producer and writer, Issa Rae; content creators Skylar Marshai & Temi Ibisanmi; photographer Michael Winter; singer/songwriter Iyaz and fashion designer, Igdahliah Pickering.
During a press conference on June 10th, in Tortola, Ms. Clarke was hailed as one of the region’s most recognized storytelling architects. Clarke’s work in the public relations industry and communications landscape has shaped global perceptions of the Caribbean region, and amplified voices within the diaspora.
Tenille has penned powerful pieces for legacy publications such as Forbes, British Vogue, ELLE Magazine, InStyle, Essence, National Geographic Traveller, The Guardian and Teen Vogue, among others. Her compelling sit-down interviews include global icons such as Ms. Tina Knowles, The Little Mermaid star Halle Bailey and Erykah Badu. In 2024, Tenille was named the Travel Journalist of the Year at the VICtor Awards by the Black Travel Summit in Florida. The NEDCO Female Entrepreneur of the Year is also credited by the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism and Tourism Trinidad with securing Trinidad and Tobago’s place on Lonely Planet’s esteemed Best in Travel 2025 list – as featured on Good Morning America.
“Everything we create as Caribbean artists is rooted in legacy and identity: echoing the resilience of those who have come before us and carving the pathway of aspirations of our brilliant people,” shared Clarke, in a statement. For Tenille, the honour from the organizers, Kickin It VI, carries deep-seeded personal meaning. “Receiving this honour from my own region – where my roots and power are deeply grounded – is one of the most meaningful acknowledgements of my career. The Caribbean continues to rise to the occasion, and I’m humbled to play a part alongside my peers in creativity in our collective global storytelling journey.”
Well known event promoter, Glenroy Watson, has passed away. He died of natural causes on April 1st, in Port -of- Spain, Trinidad.
Watson’s legacy in the event landscape in Trinidad and Tobago stands as one rooted in the philosophy of delivering value to patrons, something that was the benchmark of every ‘I Am Legend’ concert in T&T and certainly countless other events hosted across the region and internationally.
Hands on and meticulous in his approach, Watson prided himself as a no nonsense promoter.
Most recently, in the aftermath of Carnival 2026, he hosted the Majah Hype comedy show, ‘Majah Issues’, at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts, in Trinidad and was preparing for a major concert event in Trinidad, at the time of his passing.
At this time, the bereaved extends gratitude to well- wishers and asks for privacy and understanding as preparations for Watson’s home-going ceremony get underway.
All further details will be relayed at a later time.
“If this sharing that I’m doing touches anyone, I’m truly grateful. None of us are perfect. Some days you’ll feel good, some days you won’t, but it’s all part of the journey. Sometimes what you’re looking for is right on the horizon, and the moment you give up, you miss it. If my testimony makes anyone feel something, then my work here is done.” – DESTRA GARCIA
Trinidad and Tobago received a musical showcase of spiritual awakening yet again this past Saturday, at Destra’s ‘Reflections: Sound. Spirit. Surrender.” The event took place at Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s and proved to be a truly inspiring and uplifting musical experience.
From the onset, the show set a standard that fans of good music with powerful lyrics, would rave about for weeks. David Rudder – a cultural icon of Calypso music out of Trinidad and Tobago, welcomed the audience as he hit the stage first delivering the very fitting, ‘High Mas.’ It was a powerful blessing no doubt – something that would lead into a seamless spiritual production. He was subsequently joined on stage by Destra, something that created a full-circle moment that drew immediate emotion from the audience.
Destra with King David Michael Rudder.
Known for her unmistakeable vocal ability, Destra took her audience on a carefully curated musical journey, opening her set with Free Again before transitioning into slowed-down, soul-stirring renditions of some of her most beloved songs, including Love Somebody and Fly and with each performance, she revealed a different layer of her artistry, offering vulnerability, reflection, and strength.
One of the night’s most touching highlights came as Garcia shared the stage with her daughter, Xaiya, for a heartfelt duet of The Prayer. Beginning at the piano, Xaiya gently set the tone before joining her mother in song, creating an intimate moment that resonated deeply with the audience.
Destra’s daughter, Xaiya on the piano.
The production, which was creatively directed by Zara Bartels and Isoke Edwards, also showcased the incredible talent of father and son pan duo Martin and De’jean Cain as well as the Maria Regina Grade School and St. Joseph’s Convent Port- of- Spain choirs, whose vibrant and polished performances brought a refreshing, youthful energy to the stage. Gospel artiste, Nisa joined Garcia for a powerful duet of Bridge Over Troubled Water. She also performed her original composition Make Me Over, adding another layer of spiritual depth to the evening.
As the show built toward its finale, Garcia delivered a commanding rendition of Ella Andall’s Bring Down the Power, followed by classic hymns including A Little More Oil in My Lamp. This climactic segment was elevated by the presence of traditional belle dancers and African drummers, creating a rich, cultural fusion that brought the audience to its feet. Beyond the performances, the overall production, brought to life through Bridgette Wilson’s choreography and Atiba Borde’s costuming, stood out for its seamless execution, immersive ambience, and thoughtful storytelling, reinforcing Reflections as more than just a concert, but a transformative experience.
Reflections certainly delivered a powerful blend of music, filled with deep messages and meaning. In what is a very spiritual season, Destra, through the delivery of ‘Reflections,’ has carved out a space for inspiration and connection within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape – something that many would agree, is a necessity more than an option.
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