As 2008 comes to a close on a fairly difficult note for us here in Trinidad and Tobago and others around the world, we take some time to reflect on  the blessings we do have, and recommit to making life easier for those less fortunate.

Here at Idakeda, we have worked many long and gruelling hours aimed at meeting our deadlines, honouring our own financial commitments and creating a nurturing, family atmosphere. And it has paid off. 

Regarding our workshops in schools, our team has worked consistently – and we can definitely say the students have responded and the teachers are pleased.  We say thank you to those who have helped us with these interventions, whether with financial assistance, providing us with space to rehearse or simply by making it easier for us to make important links in the community.

Our productions, 'Hyarima' and 'Seeking the Source of Rivers' – A tribute to Master Artist, Leroy Clarke were extremely well received and indeed, we are working on putting on a repeat performance of the Tribute by special request. 

We were able to lend our Exhibition and Event skills to the Penal/Debe Regional Corporation for Emancipation, Eintou and Dara successfully performed their poetry in New York, Eintou was honoured by the 'International Cross-Cultural Black Women's Studies Institute' and we saw the growth and development of 'Chibale' our very own drumming and performance group, comprising the children of Idakeda.

Thank you to all the consummate professionals, those who have had a long history of working with the Idakeda team and those who recently began working with us; without your commitment and input, this journey would have been considerably more difficult.

We will continue to work hard to ensure that 2009 is a positive year for us, to ensure that our dreams take flight and that everyone around us benefits.

Walk with us and contact us to let us know how you can help; even one hour a week would make a difference. 

Peace and Blessings to you from Idakeda …