What's Happening Issue 002 (review)

l E t ’s CE l EBRAt E

womeN

It’s Internat I onal Women’s Day. What you th I nk of W hen you hear that phrase or ho W D oes I t make you feel?

ms.Debra Agong:

“Upliftment!”

ms.Candace Asha Jacob:

“It’s about the promotion of gender equality worldwide and the promotion of women in the workforce and their added contributions.”

PD CeLeBRATeS INTeRNATIoNAL womeN’S DAY

ms.Kelisha Ray:

‘I am privileged to live in a country that has come very far in acknowledging women and the role they play in accelerating progress, even though we have ways to go.”

ms.Neisha Garib:

“It’s an appreciation of women’s hard work and an acknowledgment of the role they play in society.”

ms.Sheneece Henry:

“women are indomitable. we form the lifeblood of the Personnel Department and the backbone of the Public Sector. our contribution to the continued governance of Trinidad and Tobago is truly invaluable.”

ms.ornella Packette:

“equality!”

ms.Lorraine Harper:

“ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “

ms.Roseanne Koon Koon:

“Recognition on the achievements made so far. In short, “we matter!”

ms.Franka Douglas:

“International women’s Day is a celebration of women’s achievements. It is a day of reflecting on our history while striving for a better for future for women.

ms.Adanna Lewis:

ms.Simone Bradshaw:

“I am in awe of the magnitude of their multiple contributions to society.”

“A dream attained is a beautiful achievement. Having the support of loved ones further compounds that feeling. To be loved for your truth, your femininity and your wiles is the ultimate goal. Happy International women’s Day to all the strong, soft, adventurous, introvert superwomen. Doing it by yourself is amazing but a strong team amplifies your potential.

“Recognising where women have been and where they are now. Although there have been great inequalities women have broken the glass ceiling in certain jobs, but there is still a lot to be accomplished for women and girls in comparison to their male counterparts.

ms.Geline mejias:

“when I think of International women’s Day, it calls to memory the principles of the D.C. Comics character, wonder woman. women represent the sound emotional aspect that stabilises all families with peace, equality and compassion.

PER so NNE l DEPAR t MEN t 2024 C ARNI vA l

stAFF PAR t ICIPAt E s IN BURN o U t !

The Personnel Department team ushered in the 2024 Carnival season with multiple activities and events that fostered inclusivity and celebration among its staff. The Special Events Committee’s (S.E.C) collaborative spirit and tenacity was instrumental in ensuring all planned functions were perfectly executed. These events have set the tone for a year filled with energy, camaraderie, and shared accomplishments.

The festivities kicked off with an exhilarating fitness burnout on January 25th 2024 at the Queens Park savannah. on the event day, prior to the workout, the team gathered for group shots to capture the excitement and anticipation of the moment. The infectious energy radiating from each member created an atmosphere of positivity and determination as they strolled over to the venue of the Queen’s Park Savannah . The workout, led by passionate fitness instructors, was a dynamic blend of high-intensity exercises, motivational cues, and contagious enthusiasm. From heart-pumping cardio routines and high energy performances from various Soca artistes every participant was encouraged to push their limits and embrace the challenge.

Personnel Department’s P.T.I Carlos Wilson captured with staff before the “Burnout Event” on January 25th, 2024.

Deputy CPO Ms. Wendy Barton showcasing her endurance at the Burnout on January 25th, 2024.

Ms. Earlyn DeCoteau having fun during the Burnout Event on January 25th, 2024.

Staff members pose with the winning cooler at the Interministerial Cooler Event on Febraury 1st, 2024

AnInterministerial cooler event

our, second event and shining moment truly showcased the Personnel Department’s participation at the 2024 annual Interministerial Cooler event hosted on February 1st at the Licensing Compound. ‘Team CPo’ entered the Innovative Cooler Competition and won 1st place as a direct result of the collective talent, ingenuity, and collaborative spirit of the S.e.C members. more importantly, it reaffirmed our commitment to excellence and innovation in everything that we do.

A number of P.D staff members were among two thousand plus patrons completely relaxed, free and fully engrossed in the cultural activities at the event.

The Personnel Department celebrates after 1st place VICTORY!!!

TEAM CPO VICTORY!

TPERsoNNEl DEPARtMENt Hosts

STAFF KAISO & BRUNCH

he final installment of the Carnival Trifecta was the Soca and Brunch wind down hosted by the Special events Committee at the Fitness and wellness Center. This event offered all staff the option to write and sing a composition, or sing an existing song with confidence all in the name of fun. This provided an opportunity for all staff members to unwind, showcase their musical talents, and revel in the infectious rhythms of Soca music. Hot doubles was provided to all in attendance in addition to, a variety of brunch dishes arranged by staff and their respective Divisions decorated each table. Staff was able to share in the joys of congregating with food, fun and laughter.

As we bid farewell to this unforgettable series of events, let us carry forward the sense of joy, camaraderie, and creative expression that defined the Carnival season and the importance of coming together to celebrate life’s moments, both big and small.

Here’s to many more memorable gatherings in the future, filled with laughter, music, and the indomitable spirit of Carnival!

food & entertainment

Susan Rajnauth - Houllier

mrs. Susan Rajnauth Houllier’s recognition as the CPo employee of the month for January 2024 is truly well-deserved. Her exceptional support to the Chief Personnel officer and her leadership in the absence of a Divisional Head within the Benefits management Division highlights her exceptional skills and dedication to the team’s success. Leading in such circumstances requires not only competence but also a strong sense of initiative.

She provided stability and direction during what could have been a challenging period for the Division, ultimately contributing to its resilience and effectiveness.

Thank you for your Leadership!

Nadira Bhim

The Chief Personnel officer nominated ms. Nadira Bhim as employee of the month for January 2024. ms. Bhim joined the Personnel Department in December 2023 and has already demonstrated her ability to be a team player and a focused worker. within a short few months, ms. Bhim assisted the Department in accelerating a backlog of complex increment issues to ultimately assist Public officers with receiving their rightful benefits in a timely manner. Successfully managing intricate matters like these indeed demand a combination of attention to detail, analytical prowess, and effective collaboration with colleagues. Nadira’s ability to navigate such challenges underscores her competency and commitment to her role.

A Job Well Done!

Mickelle George - Modeste

mickelle George-mosdeste’s recognition as the employee of the month for February 2024 is well-deserved. Her contributions in coordinating and successfully delivering Performance management & Assessment System (PmAS) Training to Public officers across various ministries/ Departments are commendable. mickelle has played a vital role in improving performance and productivity within the Public Service through the PmAS training.

Additionally, her involvement as an important liaison on the UNImeD Committee and the employee Assistance Programme (eAP) further highlights her dedication and commitment to supporting the well-being and welfare of Public officers. Her multifaceted role demonstrates her versatility and effectiveness in facilitating initiatives that contribute to a positive work environment and employee satisfaction in the Public Service.

Thank you for your Outstanding Contributions!

Mrs. Mickelle George - Human Resoruce Management Services

Ms. Nadira Bhim - Human Resource Unit

Mrs. Susan Rajnauth - Houllier Benefits Management Division

S.E.C. HOSTS INTERNAL ELECTIONS NEW EXECUTIVE SELECTED

on January 19th, 2024, the special Events Committee conducted its internal elections to select its newest executive members. Held at the CPo wellness and Conference Centre, the event proved to be a vibrant showcase of organisational democracy, drawing participation from all twenty-one (21) special Events Committee members.

Hopeful candidates vying for key executive positions stepped forward offering themselves to serve was indicative of their commitment to the well-being and interests of all members of staff within the Personnel Department. The electoral group represented a diverse mixture of talent and perspective that is commonly witnessed within the Department. For each member present, the act of voting served as both a privilege and responsibility.

Deputy Chief Personnel officer (Ag.) ms. wendy Barton and Head of Security, mr. Patrick Sylvester served as external observers to ensure the Committee’s commitment to upholding democratic practices and that the executive was conducted in an unbiased manner.

The ballots were cast and counted resulting as President, ms. Cindy-Ann Romeo, vice s. Colleen Joseph, secretary, ms. Jodi vice secretary, ms. Akeshia white, s. Tanyika edwards - now retired and position filled by mr. Avinash Birju and vice s. Sheneese Henry.

The results were announced and each victor was congratulated, while voting participants admired the new executive members who expressed their readiness to shoulder the mantle of leadership and guide the committee to new heights of success and accomplishments. with their mandate secured one truth remains abundantly clear: that the strength of the Special events Committee lies not only in the calibre of its events or the scope of its initiatives, but in the dedication and passion of its members.

Special Events Committee members casts their ballots.

TPD HOSTS ANNUAL END OF YEAR FUNCTION

he Personnel Department hosted its annual end-of-Year event on December 15th, 2023 at the CPO Wellness and Conference Center. The occurrence of this significant gathering was a testament to the Special Events Committee’s (S.E.C) collaborative spirit and unwavering support from the Department’s staff on several fundraisers that were hosted throughout the year.

The event delivered on quality as the food, atmosphere, and entertainment exceeded expectations.

Dr. Daryl Dinidal delivers his customary welcome remarks at the event.

Following the format of the previous year, the event was blessed with a prayer delivered by S.e.C member ms. Shenesse Henry and the opening remarks being delivered by the Chief Personnel officer, Commander Dr. Daryl Dindial. Dr. Dindial reflected on the progress of the Department in 2023 and staff’s involvement in the collective success of the organisation throughout the year. Dr. Dindial also announced the employee of the Year which was shared by both mrs. Saleesha Ramjohn-mohammed of the Corporate Services Division and ms. Kristy Joseph of the Communications and events Coordination Unit for their outstanding contributions to the Personnel Department in 2023.

Congratulations to both Employees’ of the Year 2023

ENtERtAINMENt

Classically trained singer Mr. Raymond Edwards commenced the entertainment segment of the affair with a medley of classic Christmas songs that ignited the Christmas spirit in the wellness Centre and had staff singing along. Last year’s performer, Mr. Hayden Teeluckdharry of the Corporate Services Division made a highly anticipated return to the stage to perform the popular Soca Parang tune, ‘Chinee Parang,’ which heightened the excitement among staff.

The Day’s performances concluded with a mix of music genres from seasoned Calypsonian and cover artiste Mr. Sheldon Reid who brought a refreshing vibrancy to the lineup with his infectious selection of songs.

without a doubt, the Committee worked tirelessly to ensure that the event offered a higher standard, in terms of food and entertainment compared to the previous year. Committee member and appointed decorator for the event

Ms. Colleen Joseph’s attention to detail from a decorative standpoint was evident at the venue. The aesthetically modern layout of the dessert buffet, the accent pieces on the tables, and the wonderfully decorated tree highlighted that she spared no effort and utilised all available resources to make the venue exceptional.

Mr. Raymond Edwards entertains the crowd. Mr. Hayden Teeluckdharry sings “Chinee Parang”.

Mr. Sheldon Reid entertains the crowd.

Ms. Kristy Joseph of the Communications & Events Coordination Unit.

Ms.Saleesha Mohammed- Ramjohn of the Corporate services Division

gIvEAwAYs & PRIZEs

No end-of-year function would be complete without the distribution of prizes. The afternoon was filled with giveaways for best dress male and female staff members, trivia and a delectable door prize hamper donated by the Chief Personnel officer.

The Special events Committee sincerely thanks the staff for supporting the event. Your support certainly contributed to making this event a resounding success.

tHANK YoU tEAM CPo!

HEADS OF DIVISIOnS / unITS KPI s P RESE n TATIO n

PD COnTInuES TO FORgE AHEAD WITH KPIs AFTER InITIAl MEETIng In DECEMBER 2023

In December 2023 the Heads of Divisions/Units gathered in the Sandra marchack Conference room to present Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for their respective Divisions/Units before the Chief Personnel officer (CPo), Commander Dr. Daryl Dindial and fellow colleagues.

The premise of the initial presentation meeting was to assess the effectiveness of the format for which the KPIs were being presented to ensure that not only the content, but also the delivery and clarity of the information are optimised by the various Divisions/Units. In addition to, ensure key information is communicated efficiently through the presentations.

At the meeting, Deputy CPos, ms. wendy Barton and then, ms. Lorris Alfred presented performance metrics on behalf of the Divisions/ Units that report directly to them. Based on the information that was presented, the CPo took note of the presentations and identified areas for improvement and made on-the-spot decisions to enhance both the presentation format and the KPIs themselves, for better organisational performance tracking.

Staff of the office of Strategic management (oSm) were present to offer strategic insights on the presentations as well

as, capture feedback from the Chief Personnel officer on refining the reporting format and optimising the presentation format thus ensuring that both the reporting format and presentations become simpler to inform on.

Notwithstanding, Heads of Divisions/Units who report directly to the CPo presented for their respective areas showcasing their individual approach to capturing their KPIs and presenting them. Their presentations showcased specific challenges and successes experienced by each of the Divisions/Units that ultimately informed broader organisational strategies for improvement.

overall, the CPo was pleased with the efforts of the Heads and their staff, as the KPIs initiative is a new feature to the operations of the Personnel Department and signifies a shift towards more data-driven decision-making and a greater emphasis on measuring outcomes and results.

Heads walked away from the meeting with a bit more clarity with regards to presenting the KPI’s however, the reporting format continues to evolve given both the CPo and the oSm remain open to feedback and are dedicated to refining the processes for better outcomes.

A follow-up meeting was conducted in January 2024 and another is expected to be conducted in may 2024.

JUNI o R stAFF APPRECIAt I o N

Diane Bharose

This award is bestowed to ms. Diane Bahrosa of the Corporate Services Division, Accounts Unit. Receiving this award is a well-deserved recognition for ms. Bahrosa. Being described as that one employee who goes above and beyond to get the job done speaks volumes about her dedication and work ethic. ms. Bahrosa, demonstrates exceptional commitment to her work has a positive impact on the efficiency and success of the Accounts Unit and it’s wonderful to see her efforts being recognised.

Ms. Diane Bharosa- Account Unit

Mr. Emilkule Greene offers insight into some of the matters that were highlighted during the meeting.

Recognising Team HRac PasT and PResenT!

Excelling in Service and Commitment

The members of the team has demonstrated remarkable dedication and proficiency in their work. Specifically, where they played a pivotal role in providing invaluable comparative data, contributing to approximately 120 comparative data points in a recent project. The analysis was crucial for facilitating the JePo with timely reporting to the CPo on the ongoing Job evaluation for the Civil Service.

The team went above and beyond by meticulously analysing around 500 potential data points despite facing constraints such as limited access to our comparator database, they exhibited resourcefulness and resilience in overcoming obstacles together. Their ability to adapt to challenges and deliver comprehensive information within the required timeframe is truly commendable.

moreover, their collaborative spirit and teamwork have been exemplary. They embraced their new roles and seamlessly integrated with the Division, aligning themselves with the broader goals and objectives of the Personnel Department, renewing a sense of unity within the Division.

Congratulation on exhibiting such team spirit to drive collective success and achieve organisational goals!

L - R Back row: Mr. Nathan Thomas | Ms. Sherine Mohammed | Mr. Avinash Birju

L - R Front row: Ms. Alisha Bascombe | Ms. Tishana Rivers | Ms. Brittney Persad