Saturday, March 1, 2014

Feature: T&T High commissioner presents Diaspora book to Toronto library

L-R: Cherrone Mokund, Consul at the T&T Consulate in Toronto, Linda MacKenzie, Director Research and reference Libraries and High Commissioner Philip Buxo
--> Trinidad and Tobago’s High Commissioner to Canada, Philip Buxo on Monday presented two copies of the Commemorative Publication “Trinidad and Tobago in Canada, Together We Aspire, Together We Achieve, 1962-2012” to the Toronto Central Library for use in its reference divisions.

This book is a publication of the High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago that was published to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar launched the book during her Official Visit to Canada in April 2013.

The book has details of the historic relationship that has existed between Canada and Trinidad and Tobago and tells the stories of many of the T&T Diaspora who have contributed significantly to their communities and professions in Canada.

The High Commission calls it "an inspirational collection of biographies that depict a common theme of discipline, production and tolerance" - the watchwords of Trinidad and Tobago." 


The title of the book is based on the country’s National Motto, “Together we Aspire, Together we Achieve.”

In a brief address Buxo expressed his pride in representing "such a diverse and talented group of individuals who have added a unique Trini vibrancy to the multiculturalism of Canada, and have contributed, and continue to share their expertise, to the improvement of their communities, and to Canada."
 

Canada was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Trinidad and Tobago after Independence in 1962. 

Today, both countries share bilateral relations covering a wide spectrum of sectors including trade, education, science and technology, security, culture, environment, sport and health. 

They also share common values including democracy, defence of human rights and freedom of press. But most importantly, Trinidad and Tobago and Canada are forever connected and strengthened by their Diaspora.
High Commissioner Buxo with 12 members of the Diaspora featured in the book

A letter of appreciation:

Mr.Phillip Buxo,
High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago,
High Commission of Trinidad and Tobago,
200 First Avenue, Ottawa, Ont K1S 2G6
Canada.

Dear Sir ,

Thank you for hosting the presentation of the Commemorative Book: Trinidad and Tobago in Canada, Together We Aspire, Together We Achieve 1962-2012 at the North York  Public Library on Monday February 24,2012. I appreciate that you took the time from your busy schedule to host this presentation in conjunction with the Toronto Public Library, and it was very welcoming and hospitable .

I would like to express my gratitude for your vision in undertaking this challenging task, which has come to such successful fruition delineating the achievements and contributions, of 250 plus of the members of the Diaspora from Trinidad and Tobago to Canada; which provided the infrastructure and welcoming ambiance, for the growth and achievement of one's potential in many fields.

My family and I are are proud and humbled to included in such august company.  Your inclusive words of appreciation and your gracious acquiescence in posing for many pictures, added the the feeling of belonging again to the T&T family.

Mr. Capil Bissoon was a competent an oasis of calm competence and professionalism, as he dwelt with problems as they arose . My thanks to all your staff who worked on this project.

You have raised us from the ordinary to extraordinary, and by the presentation this book to the Toronto Reference Libraries and other venues you have assured us of a place in history and immortality.

Thank you again for your altruism in completing this beautiful and vibrant "labor of love".

Respectfully,

Imogen Foster-Algoo

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Jai & Sero

Jai & Sero

Our family at home in Toronto 2008

Our family at home in Toronto 2008
Amit, Heather, Fuzz, Aj, Jiv, Shiva, Rampa, Sero, Jai