“When people can start and finish something in Trinidad and Tobago, that is a Revolution.” With those words, media stalwart and Director of the Lloyd Best Institute, Sunity Maharaj, cemented the significance of the unbroken 40-day relay fast for good governance organised by Project 40. Friday 21st November was the final day of the fast, and supporters gathered at 3 Canal’s the BIG BLACK BOX in a show of solidarity and appreciation for the landmark events of the past 40 days.

Ms. Maharaj was the feature speaker at the event, which also featured musical performances by top local talent. During her captivating discourse, Ms. Maharaj commended the members and supporters of Project 40 for their advocacy of model governance for Trinidad and Tobago, and urged them to prepare for the challenges ahead. “When you cut a different path, it threatens people,” she stated. “You must acknowledge that divide and create a bridge. The country needs all 40 of you and more to cross that divide. Utilise your skills and connect to people, help them realise their power”.

A lively discourse ensued, covering issues including the importance of citizens’ rights to sustainable governance, race and national identity, and classism. As she closed, Ms. Maharaj emphasised the necessity of those present taking responsibility for the change they want to see in the country. “You are now the chosen people of this generation responsible for change, because you have chosen to be,” she declared. “You must take take responsibility. You are releasing great potential in the system when you help people realise the power they have”. 

With the crowd buzzing from Ms. Maharaj’s stirring address, the atmosphere became even more electrified as a range of performers took to the stage. Chike “Bukka Roots” Pilgrim, Gerry Williams of West Indian Rhythm Konnection, Anton “Enginear” Blackman, and Richard “Solman” Solis delivered exhilerating performances which had the audience in euphoric spirits.


Photo: Freetown Collective perform at the Project 40's event ConverseNation held at The Big Black Box, Woodbrook

Freetown Collective closed the show, and their haunting melodies and powerful vocals created a resounding energy throughout the venue. Lead singer and Project 40 member Muhammad Muwakil and singer Lou Lyons were visibly moved by the outpouring of support and unity shown by the crowd, wih many in the audience remarking that it was indeed an extraordinary moment in time.


Photo: Project 40 member Gerry Williams of West Indian Rhythm Konnection sings to the crowd at the Project 40's event ConverseNation held at The Big Black Box, Woodbrook

While the relay fast has concluded, Project 40 members reiterated that their work was by no means over. Thanking supporters and all who had assisted and guided them over the past weeks, they made it clear that their movement to achieve model governance for Trinidad and Tobago would continue to grow from strength to strength.

Photo #1: Sunity Maharaj speaking at the Project 40's event ConverseNation held at The Big Black Box, Woodbrook