tidings
Corey Connelly
ANNETTE NICHOLSON-ALFRED hopes being made an Honorary Fellow by the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) will inspire other Tobagonians.
Nicholson-Alfred, 76, one of the island’s best-known cultural figures, was awarded the distinguished fellow at a ceremony at the National Academy for the Performing Arts in Port of Spain on Tuesday.
RC Archbishop of Port of Spain Jason Gordon, businessman Langston Roach and the late flute arranger and educator Desmond Waithe also received the award.
Nicholson-Alfred said she knew Roach and Waithe.
She told Newsday on Wednesday, “Langston Roach and I were in the same year at Bishop’s High School and I met Desmond Waithe at Mausica Teachers’ College during the 1970s because he was involved in music and singing.”
Nicholson-Alfred, who received the Public Service Medal of Merit (Gold) in 2005, has had a distinguished career in culture, community service and education.
She is a former independent senator and founder of the Mt Pleasant-based Itsy Bitsy Playhouse and Folk Theatre, which serves as a platform for many up-and-coming artists.
She is also the author of several books, including Come Sing With Ti Netty, a compilation of folk songs from Tobago and other parts of the Caribbean. Launched at Scarborough Library in October 2021.
Nicholson-Alfred, from Charlotteville, first worked as a civil servant and later went into teaching
While teaching, Nicholson-Alfred also worked extensively in culture and was awarded a scholarship to New York University, where he spent several years. Upon her return, she returned to public service as a cultural officer.
“I was always part of a group that did cultural things because I had the Tobago Academy of Performing Arts. I still work with the Charlotteville Heritage Performers. I have the Itsy Bitsy players. So I’ve always been involved in that kind of work with some groups and churches.”
On Wednesday, Nicholson-Alfred said she is extremely grateful to have been accepted.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the award of the Honorable Fellow. I feel honored that my work and contribution has been recognized by UTT.
“I would like to thank, not only UTT for choosing me, but I am happy to know that my life’s passion has resonated with others.”
She also thanked her husband and family, the 1970s group Plymouth Best Village, Mausica Teachers’ College, Charlotteville Heritage Performers and the Tobago cultural fraternity for supporting her work over the years.
