In 2025, two National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago members quietly set an extraordinary example of commitment to heritage education. Stella Sandy, a retiree, and Audra Mitchell, a working professional, each attended 16 National Trust tours over the course of the year—demonstrating how accessible, well-curated heritage experiences can inspire sustained engagement.
Both women were first introduced to the National Trust by friends, a reminder of the powerful role word-of-mouth continues to play in building cultural communities.
Audra Mitchell, who joined the National Trust in 2024, credits the organisation’s tours with deepening her understanding of Trinidad and Tobago’s history.
“I was introduced by a friend, and from there I became addicted,” Mitchell said. “Addicted to learning more about our beautiful Trinidad and Tobago through the work of the National Trust, especially through the tours. Each one adds a new layer of understanding.”
For Stella Sandy, the tours offered not only education but connection.
“I attended the first few tours with a friend,” Sandy explained, “but what stood out was the sense of community. The tours have created a lovely environment where people genuinely look out for each other. You don’t feel like a stranger.”
Central to these experiences is Marlon Green, Senior Outreach and Education Officer at the National Trust, but also Tour Architect and Guide at the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago, whose thoughtfully designed itineraries combine historical research, storytelling and on-site interpretation to bring heritage spaces and experiences to life.
Among the many tours attended, both women spoke particularly about the Merikins Tour, where Sandy expressed admiration for the determination of the Merikin people to preserve their culture, land and identity in the face of historical challenges.
The Nelson Island Tour also left a lasting impression. The experience provided important context on the island’s layered history—from its role as an immigration and quarantine station for East Indian indentured labourers between 1866 and 1917, to its use as a detention centre during labour unrest and the 1970 Black Power Movement, as well as its earlier Indigenous and World War II military history.
Today, Nelson Island is a National Heritage Site managed by the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago, preserved as a symbol of national identity and political struggle. Guided tours explore its history alongside ongoing efforts toward sustainable eco-development and heritage education.
The National Trust also acknowledged Rural Delights, whose generous support helped recognise the dedication of these members through curated hampers presented in appreciation of their commitment.
As the organisation looks ahead to 2026, an expanded slate of tours and heritage programmes is already in development, continuing the Trust’s mission to make history accessible, relevant and engaging for all.
Members of the public are encouraged to learn more about upcoming tours and membership opportunities by visiting www.nationaltrust.tt.
About the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago
The National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago is a membership-based organization established by Act No. 11 of 1991 and amended by Act No. 31 of 1999. The Trust is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the nation’s built and natural heritage, ensuring that future generations can access, learn from, and celebrate our shared legacy.
The Trust works to:
- Identify built and natural properties and sites of interest.
- Formally list properties and sites important to our national heritage to prevent destruction or ensure consultation before modification.
- Provide access to and enjoyment of heritage properties by the public.
- Encourage research and acquire records of properties of interest and historical artefacts.
- Conduct education and awareness campaigns to promote national appreciation of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich and diverse heritage.
Through tours, exhibitions, events, education, and outreach initiatives, the Trust connects citizens and visitors to the nation’s cultural treasures while safeguarding them for generations to come.