Caption: President of the InterClub of Trinidad and Tobago Justine Aboud-Chamely, second left, with government ministers from left Paula Gopee-Scoon, Donna Cox and Pennelope Beckles. AZP News/Prior Beharry
By Prior Beharry
GIRLS make up 60% of human trafficking victims in Trinidad and Tobago.
This was revealed by President of the InterClub of Trinidad and Tobago Justine Aboud-Chamely at “An Afternoon Tea” function in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025 at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain on Sunday.
She said, “This very real situation calls for urgent action to protect our children and especially our girls, who make up 60% of trafficking victims. This is all part of our action to leave no child behind in the fight against human trafficking.”
Aboud-Chamely said the club’s interest in human trafficking began in November 2019 and has since worked closely with the Counter Trafficking Unit.
She noted, “Last July to commemorate World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and to highlight the dangers of child trafficking and sexual exploitation, we launched a powerful billboard on the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, with the message that read: ‘Stolen for Sex. This can be your Daughter.'”
Founded in 1984, the InterClub is an umbrella organisation for 17 women’s NGOs throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
Aboud-Chamely said, “The theme for this year’s IWD — “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”— is more than just a phrase. It is a powerful declaration of what we as women strive for, what we fight for, and what we demand for women and girls everywhere. We place a special emphasis on girls as they are the catalyst for lasting change moving forward.”
She said, “Further, the year 2025 is a pivotal moment as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
“This document is the most progressive and widely endorsed blueprint for women’s and girls’ rights worldwide, transforming the women’s rights agenda in terms of legal protection, access to services, youth engagement, and change in social norms, stereotypes, and ideas stuck in the past.
“Over the past three decades, we’ve witnessed transformative progress: women breaking barriers in politics, science, arts, and countless other fields. Today I have a great feeling of gratitude for the strides women have made and a very deep sense of responsibility for the challenges we still face reminding us that our journey is ongoing.”
Gina Mohammed, a founding member of the Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago, was the InterClub Woman of the Year.
A cheque of $25,000 was presented to the InterClub from an initiative with Guiltless Yogurt where 50 cents was donated from every item sold.
Radio personality Karen Dass was the mistress of ceremonies.
