The NAPS Auditorium was abuzz with a blend of fashion, music and food as the first-ever Poor Man’s Dinner was held on the evening of June 24, 2023. The event was organized by friends of the Naparima College Past Students Association in collaboration with Inclusive Hope which brought together members of the local and international community, sponsors, and performers for a memorable evening filled with remembrance, entertainment and showcasing the differently abled within our society. Over 25 sponsors and donors contributed to the event making the evening a heartwarming testament to the power of unity and compassion.
The event commenced with a musical Interlude and featured the talented NAPS Steelpan Ensemble, setting the tone for the rest of the evening. The Master of Ceremonies took the stage and guided the audience through the evening. Mr Richard Small a driving force behind the event shared about the cause and the impact of the late Brian Peters. The evening was tinged with sadness as Brian, who was initially involved in the planning, passed away just days before the dinner. His memory was honoured and his spirit of compassion was remembered throughout the night.
As dinner was served, the Representative of the Mayor of San Fernando extended heartfelt greetings to all attendees, appreciating their dedication to the cause of the physically challenged of our community. The event showcased the talent of local designers with Rhoni Designs and Jaden Laurel. The ‘runway’ models displayed exquisite creations modelled by various differently-abled persons to the applause of the audience. The event also featured soulful musical renditions by Mr Anslem Walters and Mr Ancil Valley.
As the event drew to a close, Mr Joel Simmons, President of the Past Student Association delivered closing remarks & the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all attendees, performers, and sponsors for making the evening a grand success.
The inaugural Poor Man’s Dinner was a resounding triumph, bringing to focus that those within our community who are visually or physically impaired still have something to offer their community.
