Rotary Clubs' Hats & Heels to raise funds for youth projects

The Rotary Clubs of Triidad and Tobago will host Hats & Heels High Tea and Fashion Show at the Hyatt Regency, Wrightson Road, Port of Spain on September 22, from 3-6 pm.

This inaugural fundraiser will commemorate the United Nations International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21, and aims to support Rotary’s peace building initiatives, particularly the youth empowerment and support initiatives project, said a media release.

In addition to inspirational speakers, the event will feature a fashion segment co-ordinated by creative director Richard Young. It will showcase the designs of local and regional talent, including Kooti's Couture, Charu Lochan Dass (CLD), Lisa Faye Hand Dyed Silk Clothing, The Cloth, Indigenous Designs by Dominique La Roche, Neha Karina, Elizabeth Lucas and Mark Eastman.

Miss World TT Anna-Lise Nanton will be on runway at the show, the release said.

The event’s featured speaker Prof Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, campus principal of The UWI, St Augustine, will address the audience on Empowering the Next Generation: Education as the foundation for peace and social justice.

Rotary District 7030 governor Debbie Roopchand, and United Nations resident co-ordinator in TT Joanna Kazana will also deliver brief remarks, the release said.

Master of ceremonies is Lara Quentrall-Thomas, past Rotary District 7030 governor.

Funds from Hats & Heels will also go to support impoverished students and promote conflict prevention. Over the past five years, Rotary District 7030 has contributed approximately US$1.5 million to the Rotary Foundation, multiplying these efforts through access to grants, which have funded impactful projects across the region, the release said.

The event is expected to serve as an excellent platform to celebrate peace, encourage educational opportunities, and create sustainable impacts within local communities. The Rotary said, through initiatives such as extra lessons, vocational training, and mental health support, it remains dedicated to fostering peaceful environments where young people can thrive.