Transforming people through arts in Fyzabad

Hi

I am Andrea Encinas, birthed at No 123, No 22 Road, Fyzabad, Trinidad and Tobago, in 1958. I went to Fyzabad Primary and Intermediate School, where I learned to dance, sing, debate and perform. Sixty six years later, I am back home, having lived for 40 years in London, United Kingdom. I have come home with an MBA (Arts Management) having spent over 30 years in the field of performing arts in everything from singer, vocal coach, event organiser, stage manager, producer, musical director, music educator, arts programme curator to an arts development volunteer now that I am home.

Giving to my hometown what I have imbibed over the years to transform the lives of the community, especially the youth, is very important to me. The arts scene in Trinidad and Tobago is not as developed as in the UK, understandably, as we are a young nation. But the talent, the raw talent that is here, surpasses much of what I have seen in the UK. What is lacking is career pathways to professional spaces, and the funding for that development.

I want to help create a funding resource for these organisations so that they can focus on the training and not worry about where money is coming from for costuming or venue hire or professional tutors.

So please help me with this project. In return, I will keep you updated on the work.

Much appreciated,

Andrea