About us

Ministry Overview:

The Ministry of Culture and Community Development under the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is mandated to preserve, promote and strengthen the cultural identity of Trinidad and Tobago while empowering communities through inclusive development. Our core areas of focus are Culture and the Arts, Community Development, and related matters.

Additionally, the Ministry oversees the work of respective Statutory Boards and Other Bodies under its remit that contribute to overall nation-building, development and cultural preservation.

Through targeted cultural and community-based programmes, we aim to facilitate social transformation, foster national pride and identity, all while working toward equitable access to opportunities, holistic growth and community advancement for the benefit of each and every citizen.

Vision

“To foster a culturally rich, cohesive, and empowered nation through the preservation of heritage, the promotion of the arts, and the advancement of inclusive and sustainable community development.”

Minister’s Bio

Appointed on May 5th, 2025, The Honourable Michelle Benjamin serves as Minister of Culture and Community Development for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

A proud daughter of Moruga/Tableland, Minister Benjamin brings to the portfolio a deep sense of community, an unwavering commitment to public service, and a strong belief in the power of culture to unite and uplift. Her early education at Cowen Hamilton Secondary School and Southern Community College laid the foundation for academic success, culminating in a Diploma in Computer Studies from the School of Accounting and Management, and a BSc in Environmental and Natural Resource Management and Biology from the University of the West Indies.

Her journey in public service has been shaped by years of hands-on experience across government ministries and two consecutive terms as a Local Government Councillor for the Hindustan/St. Mary’s district. She has also served as Chair of the Moruga/Tableland Constituency Executive, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to civic leadership, community empowerment, and social responsibility.

Minister Benjamin is a devout member of the Baptist faith and has been actively involved in religious, cultural, and civic organisations throughout her life. She is especially passionate about youth development and continues to champion programmes that create meaningful opportunities for young people across Trinidad and Tobago.

As Minister, she brings to the Ministry of Culture and Community Development a clear and inclusive vision rooted in equity, heritage, and transformation. Her leadership is guided by values of integrity, accountability, and service, ensuring that the Ministry remains focused on preserving cultural identity, empowering communities, and strengthening national pride.

Our Culture, Our Community

The Ministry of Culture and Community Development is mandated to preserve, promote, and develop the cultural identity of Trinidad and Tobago, while advancing sustainable and inclusive community development across the nation. The Ministry executes this mandate through strategic oversight, policy development, and programme delivery in the following areas:

Culture and the Arts

The Ministry is responsible for national cultural expression, artistic development, and heritage promotion through the administration of:

  • Carnival
  • Creative Arts
  • Cultural Products and Centres
  • Culture, including:
    • Cultural Organisations
    • National Days and Festivals
    • Steel Bands
    • Tassa
  • National Philharmonic Orchestra

Community Development

The Ministry empowers citizens and strengthens communities by facilitating grassroots development, lifelong learning, and local governance through:

  • Adult Education Literacy
  • Best Village Programme
  • Community Centres / Civic Centres
  • Community Development Projects
  • Community Development Fund
  • Community Development Policy and Monitoring
  • Community Education (Skills Training) Programme
  • Community Mediation
  • Entrepreneurship at the Community Level
  • Management of Issues relating to First Peoples
  • Regional Complexes
  • Transformation and Development Centres

Statutory Boards and Other Bodies

The Ministry provides oversight and support to the following institutions that contribute to national cultural and community development:

  • Carnival Institute
  • NAPA Hotel
  • Naparima Bowl
  • National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA)
  • Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA)
  • National Carnival Commission
  • National Museum and Art Gallery
  • National Steel Symphony Orchestra
  • National Theatre Arts Company
  • Queen’s Hall
  • National Association of Village and Community Councils
  • Village Councils

Wholly Owned Enterprises

The Ministry also has direct responsibility for:

  • Export Centres Company Limited
  • National Commission for Self Help Limited