August 22nd, 2026 | Scarborough, Tobago: – The Tobago Regional Health Authority (TRHA) celebrated the successful conclusion of its 2026 Student Internship Programme with an inspiring closing ceremony on Friday, August 21st, 2026, at the Learning Resource Centre, Scarborough General Hospital.
Held under the theme, “The Next Gen Service Provider: Leading with Purpose and Innovation,” the event, now in its fourth edition, honoured fifty interns who successfully completed eight weeks of hands-on training, mentorship and professional development.
In her feature address, Deputy Chief Secretary and Secretary with responsibility for Health and Wellness, Dr. Faith Brebnor, challenged the interns to use their experience to shape their futures, encouraging them to learn more about themselves and recognise that “your response reveals your character” as they grow into “Next-Gen Providers.” She also thanked the TRHA staff who dedicated their time and expertise to mentoring the interns while continuing to fulfil their regular duties. Dr. Brebnor called on the cohort to help shape Tobago’s future, declaring: “Together, we will make Tobago the greatest little island on the planet.”
TRHA Board Director, Ms. Alana Alleyne, emphasized that the programme is a deliberate investment in the island’s future. “We want people who want to change the world, change-makers, innovators, and problem-solvers,” she stated. Ms. Alleyne highlighted the word ‘build’ as the key focus for the departing interns, encouraging them to return and contribute to the Authority in the years to come.
Acting TRHA Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Michelle Edwards-Benjamin, praised the energy and fresh perspectives the students brought to the TRHA’s Head Office and various departments. She encouraged them to adopt a mindset of continuous improvement: “Great opportunities come once in a lifetime, but small opportunities surround you every day.”
Intern from the 2024 cohort, Ms. Cydney De Coteau, delivered the Introduction to the Reflections segment in both English and Spanish, adding a distinctive element of inclusivity to the programme.
A key moment of the ceremony was the presentation of appreciation tokens and awards, recognising the achievements of the 2026 interns. The group “Stardust” claimed first place in the TRHA Next Gen TikTok Jingle Challenge, while “Beauty & Brains” took the top prize in the TRHA Next Gen Think Tank Innovation Challenge. Individual excellence was also recognised, with Mr. Azareel George and Ms. Chevonne Sandy named Most Outstanding Male and Female Interns, respectively. Ms. Amelia Blackman received the Young Leader Award, while Mr. Terrelle Che Guevara was honoured with the Unsung Hero Award.
In keeping with the programme’s focus on preparing interns for their next chapter, this year’s prizes included practical support for tertiary life, such as vouchers and grocery hampers.
The ceremony concluded with a vibrant musical medley performed by talented past interns, reinforcing the programme’s message to lead with purpose, innovate with courage and serve with compassion.
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Corporate Communications Department | Tobago Regional Health Authority
Level 2, #7 Montessori Drive, Glen Road, Scarborough, Tobago
660-4744 ext. 7540