The Trinbago Diaspora Outreach Network (TDON), a non-profit incorporated organization from Trinidad and Tobago, will be hosting its’ first Homecoming Celebration to coincide with the 60th Anniversary of the Independence of Trinidad and Tobago. This organization’s mission is to foster harmonious and systematic engagement between the (T&T) Diaspora abroad and communities in Trinidad and Tobago applying processes of Research, Recognition and Engagement. The organization’s Founder and Chair – Dr. Andre Phillips emphasizes that Homecoming T&T 2022 allows these processes to be integrated in a single project initiative.
The theme of this year’s event is reflective of a holiday that is designed to raise your consciousness of island pride as you; Reconnect, Rediscover and Rejuvenate. This Diamond Jubilee celebration is planned to encourage all nationals residing abroad to exhibit patriotism for their twin island state by returning home for a grand gathering that celebrates national independence and diaspora commitments to communities across the nation.
Homecoming T&T 2022 is a potpourri of events that celebrate and showcase the contributions of Trinidad and Tobago Diaspora. Events takes place from August 24, 2022 until August 31,2022. Diaspora participation is anticipated as a wide array of activities are planned. They include: Days of Service Missions (Medical Outreach Clinics, both in Trinidad & Tobago), visits to historical and natural island attractions, (both in Trinidad & Tobago gathering of Nationals and locals (Meet & Greet – Tobago), and a grand diaspora convention in Tobago which will climax the Homecoming Celebrations.
Homecoming T&T 2022 also features a special television project titled ‘Exemplars of Patriotism’. It involves the identification and chronicling of patriotic contributions of diaspora groups and individuals to Trinidad and Tobago from Independence 1962 to present day. The series will premiere in August on multi-media platforms for national and international audiences, and a recognition ceremony is incorporated into the Convention activities to honor exemplary contributors. TDON has representation from Diaspora associations on its governing board and anticipates a renewed commitment to systematic engagement with communities in Trinidad and Tobago for the foreseeable future. The second edition of Homecoming T&T is proposed for August 2024.