The Ishkama Global Change (IGC) Business Convention 2025 was a resounding success, hosted in the vibrant and welcoming setting of Trinidad and Tobago.
This year’s theme, “Co-operatives Build a Better World,” brought together global visionaries, trailblazers, and changemakers to engage in thought-provoking dialogue, share groundbreaking ideas, and spark meaningful collaboration for sustainable global progress.
From insightful keynote sessions to engaging panel discussions, the convention provided a unique platform for attendees to align their missions with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), building on IGC’s commitment to a more inclusive, innovative, and interconnected world.
Convention Highlights
July 16th: A high-level opening cocktail reception attended by Ministers, dignitaries, and the Prime Minister marked the official start of the event.
July 17th: Business networking in partnership with TTMA (Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association), giving IGC speakers and attendees an exclusive opportunity to connect with local and international businesses.
July 18th: Themed speaker sessions addressed a wide range of global issues from gender equality to healthcare, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship.
July 18th (Evening): TTMA Buyers Cocktail, where speakers and delegates mingled with business leaders and government officials.
July 19th: The IGC Global Awards Gala Night, a celebration of exceptional individuals and organizations, complete with dinner, entertainment, and dancing.
Launch of the IGC Coffee Table Book
A proud milestone at this year’s convention was the launch of the first IGC Coffee Table Book, featuring 25 eminent personalities honored for their global contributions and visionary leadership. This beautifully curated publication will be shared across IGC’s media platforms and partner networks worldwide.
Notable Attendees and Guest Dignitaries
The event saw the gracious presence of high-level leaders including:
Hon. Minister Philip Edward
Hon. Deputy PA Mr. Kishore Lutchman (representing Min. Videsh Maharaja for Foreign Affairs)
Hon. Mr. Sateesh Ramsaran
Dr. Mahindra Ramesh Ramdeen, CEO of TTMA
Keynote Speakers Included:
Prof. Amb. Dr. Abhnash Bains
Dr. Nicola Garrington
Dr. Mahindra Ramesh Ramdeen
Vanessa Haripersad
Lady Dr. Robbie
Lion Williams
Amb. Dr. Maxine Kerr
Dr. Anne Marie Ortega
Dr. Angela Soong
Dr. Leela Ramsingh
Princess Kendal Aminat
Des O’Connor
Lord Rami Ranger
HE Amb. Dr. Andrew
…and many more esteemed speakers and thought leaders from around the world.
IGC Global Awards 2025: Honouring Changemakers
Mentor Magnate Award -Min. Kama Maharaj Sacha
Ambassador of the Year -Dr. Srinivas Kaveti
IGC Super Connector Award – Dr. Mahindra Ramesh Ramdeen
Ally Award- HC Dr. Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit
Gender Parity Pioneer-Dr. Prakash Lal
Cultural Champion Award -Dr. Manju Lodha
Healthcare Advocacy Excellence- Dr. Geeta Khubchandani
Environmental Stewardship Award -Shoaib Menon Habib
International Changemaker -Amb. Dr. Minakshi Koch
Business Collaborator of the Year -Ms. Shahnaz Husain
CEO Appreciation Awards:
Nicole Farell
Shabana Aziz Rajan
Kamla Tewarie
Opening Address by Prof. Amb. Dr. Abhnash Bains
“To each one of you who have taken time out of your schedules to join us, whether in person or virtually, I extend my deepest thanks.
A special welcome to those who crossed oceans to be here, your presence is a testament to the strength of unity and shared purpose.
Today, we gather not just as individuals, but as a global collective. A community that believes international collaboration can ignite change, elevate innovation, and accelerate progress.
Each connection made here today is a step towards building lasting bridges toward a future built on mutual respect, innovation, and possibility.
Let today be a celebration of unity, purpose, and transformation.”
Acknowledgements
This grand event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our dedicated team and partners. Special thanks to:
Sandra L Blood- educator/consultant/advisor, and private external feature editor, Trinidad and Sunday Guardian, along with Ryan Bachoo (CNC3 Tv), Nikesha Alexander (CNC3 The Morning Brew), and Joel Morris (105.1FM Radio) – all under the banner of Guardian Media Ltd
Kuldeep Ganga Persad- Photography, Videography & Music
Poornawatie Sharmilla- Master of Ceremonies
Jamal Prince- Technical Support
Pat and Max-Trophies & Awards
And of course, a heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors, whose support brought this vision to life.
The IGC Business Convention 2025 was more than an event, it was a movement for global impact, one that promises to echo through the halls of industry, diplomacy, and community building for years to come.
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