BPTT workshops for a better Mayaro

The workshops, sponsored by Mayaro-based energy company BP Trinidad and Tobago, and facilitated by consultancy firm Cross and Associates, are aimed at the development of non-governmental (GGOs)and community-based organisations (CBOs) in the region.

Since the inception of the programme in 2003, more than 1,600 persons have benefitted from the series of two-day training workshops on diverse topics such as project management, conflict management, events management and leadership. Training is provided free of charge to representatives of community groups from areas across the south-eastern region, including Mayaro, Manzanilla, Ortoire, Guayaguayare and Rio Claro.

Ronda Francis, Manager, Corporate Responsibility, bpTT, explained the rationale for the community training: “These workshops are focused on building capacity in these organisations that play a significant part in laying the foundation for sustainable development. They are designed to provide the tools to develop and manage various projects aimed at self-sufficiency, economic stability and improving the quality of life for the residents of Mayaro and environs.”

Andrew Cross, principal consultant with Cross and Associates, gave his impressions of the training workshops. “NGOs and CBOs are recognised internationally as facilitators of development at the community level.

These groups are committed to addressing the economic and social issues in their communities and the workshops provide them with the necessary skills to implement their plans. From the feedback received, this bpTT initiative is paying dividends in terms of building social capital and facilitating the transformation of Mayaro into a model community,” he pointed out.

Tricia Salvary, who represented the Guayaguayare Village Council at the final workshop on conflict resolution, was full of praise for the NGO/CBO capacity building initiative. “These workshops have provided us with valuable skill sets that we utilise in order to become more functional and effective organisations. Through these workshops we have also been able to network, which makes us better able to share knowledge and work together toward building a better Mayaro for everyone,” Salvary said.