News Releases

The UWI Honours the Legacy of Helen Bhagwansingh

For Release Upon Receipt - October 30, 2023

St. Augustine


 

 [L-R] Professor Eon Nigel Harris Former Vice-Chancellor of The UWI, and Mrs. Helen Bhagwansingh after receiving her Honorary Degree, Doctor of Laws with Sir George Alleyne Former Chancellor of The UWI and Professor Clement Sankat Former Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal of The UWI-STA at the St Augustine Campus's Graduation 2011.

 St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago – Monday 30th October 2023 - The University of the West Indies (The UWI) is deeply saddened by news of the passing of an esteemed member of our community, Helen Bhagwansingh.  As a 2011 recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Law Degree from The UWI, her legacy as a business pioneer and philanthropist will forever be a testament to her strength, resilience, and commitment to the betterment of society.

From a modest mom-and-pop hardware store in Sea Lots in 1969 to a sprawling empire with megastores across Trinidad and Tobago, her story was one of audacity, grit, and boundless faith. Helen stood out in a predominantly male-dominated business realm, not just as a woman, but as an icon who redefined the norms of entrepreneurship.

Moreover, Helen's accolades speak to her monumental achievements. Named the “Woman of the Millennium” by the Trinidad and Tobago Energy Chamber and inducted into the Business Hall of Fame by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago as its first female inductee, she carved a niche that will inspire generations to come. Furthermore, the country also recognized her unconquerable spirit by awarding her the nation’s highest honour, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

However, her contributions were not limited to the realm of business. As a dedicated philanthropist, Helen had a vision for a healthier and more informed Trinidad and Tobago. Her generosity led to the establishment of the Diabetes Education Research and Prevention Institute (DERPI) at The UWI, with an investment to the project of TT $5M to ensure future generations are equipped with knowledge and resources to combat this prevalent health challenge. At the time, she rallied for support for DERPI from other corporations because, in her words, "The real measure of a person's wealth is what they have invested in mankind" and because she derived peace from helping human beings, especially children.

Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, Campus Principal of The UWI St. Augustine, remarked, "Helen Bhagwansingh did not just dominate the business world, but she was also a shining example of what one can achieve with determination and a genuine desire to uplift others. It must be noted that Helen Bhagwansingh understood the role of The University in the community and the value of its research and education, and as a result, her contributions are immeasurable. We mourn the loss of such an impactful figure, but her legacy will indubitably live on."

As The UWI remembers Helen Bhagwansingh, we're reminded that indeed there is power in a name. Her legacy encapsulates the essence of a remarkable woman, a visionary mind, and a compassionate heart.

It is said that while many may follow the path carved out by a great woman, the honour is reserved for the one who blazes the trail. Helen Bhagwansingh has left an indelible mark, and her legacy will continue to inspire. The UWI extends our heartfelt condolences to the Bhagwansingh family and all those who knew and loved her.

 

Mrs. Helen Bhagwansingh after receiving her Honorary Degree, Doctor of Laws, at St Augustine Campus's Graduation 2011.

 

[Front L-R] Sir George Alleyne Former Chancellor of The UWI shakes hands with Mrs. Helen Bhagwansingh at the Cocktail Reception of the St Augustine Campus' Graduation Ceremonies 2011. In the background looking on are Professor Clement Sankat Former Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal of The UWI-STA [L], and Mr. Reginald Dumas Retired Head of the Public Service.

  About The University of the West Indies

The UWI has been and continues to be a pivotal force in every aspect of Caribbean development; residing at the centre of all efforts to improve the well-being of people across the region for the past 75 years.

From a university college of London in Jamaica with 33 medical students in 1948, The UWI is today an internationally respected, global university with near 50,000 students and five campuses: Mona in Jamaica, St. Augustine in Trinidad and Tobago, Cave Hill in Barbados, Five Islands in Antigua and Barbuda and its Open Campus, and global centres in partnership with universities in North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa and Europe.

The UWI offers over 800 certificate, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate degree options in Culture, Creative and Performing Arts, Food and Agriculture, Engineering, Humanities and Education, Law, Medical Sciences, Science and Technology, Social Sciences, and Sport. As the Caribbean’s leading university, it possesses the largest pool of Caribbean intellect and expertise committed to confronting the critical issues of our region and wider world.

 The UWI has been consistently ranked among the top universities globally by the most reputable ranking agency, Times Higher Education (THE). The UWI is the only Caribbean-based university to make the prestigious lists since its debut in the rankings in 2018. In addition to its leading position in the Caribbean in the World University Rankings, it is also in the top 25 for Latin America and the Caribbean and the top 100 global Golden Age universities (between 50 and 80 years old).  The UWI is also featured among the leading universities on THE’s Impact Rankings for its response to the world’s biggest concerns, outlined in the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Wellbeing; Gender Equality and Climate Action.

2023 marks The UWI’s 75th anniversary. The Diamond jubilee milestone themed “UWI at 75. Rooted. Ready. Rising.” features initiatives purposely designed and aligned to reflect on the past, confront the present, and articulate plans for the future of the regional University.

 

Learn more at www.uwi.edu   

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