Mitchell Returns as Shelter Chairman

January 8th, 2025

New Residential Wing and Youth Initiatives Led by Miss World TT

At the recent Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 28th November 2024, Colin Mitchell was re-elected as Chairman of The Shelter, A Safe House For Survivors Of Domestic Violence, for the fourth consecutive year.

During his tenure, Mitchell has worked alongside a dedicated team of volunteers to promote key initiatives, including the construction of the new WAND Wing to meet the increasing demand for additional accommodation at the safe house, as well as the launch of a nationwide youth educational campaign. Established in 1987 by Diana Mahabir Wyatt, The Shelter is a haven for women and children who are victims of domestic violence in all its forms.

With the new WAND Wing structure completed, the focus in the coming months will be on raising funds to ensure that electrical, plumbing, windows, ceilings, and furnishings are installed. Another milestone has been the launch of a youth-focused educational initiative, championed by The Shelter’s youngest new board member, Miss World Trinidad and Tobago representative Anna-Lise Nanton. The campaign aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and teach healthy relationship skills to young people through a school tour initiative.

The Chairman also noted several achievements in his report, including:

• Fundraising Success: Several profitable events in 2023/2024, such as the Shelter Sunset Soiree and the Annual Golf Tournament, which achieved record-breaking participation.

• Outdoor Space Transformation: The redevelopment of the safe house’s outdoor area into a playground and trauma-sensitive yoga park.

New Programs:

A full-time teacher for children during their stay at the safe house.

The Return to Living Program, which integrates therapy, personal development, and community support to help residents reclaim their lives.

Mitchell highlighted that The Shelter now employs nine professionals, ensuring robust support for its operations and residents.

“As Chairman, it has been a privilege to lead The Shelter over the past three years, witnessing remarkable progress, resilience, and commitment from our volunteer board, team members, volunteers, and supporters,” Mitchell shared at the recent AGM. “Together, we have accomplished significant milestones in our mission to support survivors of domestic violence and foster a safer community. This week marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a critical global initiative. Here in Trinidad and Tobago, the statistics remain stark and sobering: about forty perfect of all women (including over 60yr olds) have experienced intimate partner violence at some point in their lives, with domestic violence accounting for the majority of female homicides. These numbers remind us of the urgent need for action and accountability.”

Mitchell expressed deep gratitude to outgoing board members, in particular Sherron Harford, Vice Chair, and welcomed the new leadership team, including:

• Kim Martins: Focused on volunteer program improvements and operational audits.
• Anna Lise Nanton: Leading the youth educational initiative and sustainability.
• Stacey Ann Paty: Vice Chair.
• Neela Moonilal Kissoon: Secretary.
• Sean Medina: Treasurer.

He also thanked Dr. Maryam Abdool Richards, Dr. Camille Huggins, and Kelly Betts for their continued dedicated service.

Supporters are encouraged to attend upcoming fundraising events, including The Shelter’s Annual Golf Tournament on Sunday, 29th June 2025, and the Shelter Sunset Soiree at Casters Cove on Saturday, 25th October 2025.

To donate or learn more about The Shelter, visit www.trinidadshelter.com.
“Together, we can create a Trinidad and Tobago where every woman and child lives free from violence and fear.”