NCPD Principal reflects on a landmark moment for disability advocacy

The National Centre for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) has long been a pillar of support and empowerment for individuals with disabilities in Trinidad and Tobago. The institution is no longer “the country’s best-kept secret”—thanks in part to an unforgettable moment with Soca superstar Machel Montano.

In a recent interview on Altos, Principal Kahaya Puckerin shared her excitement over the NCPD’s recent success in a competition organised by Montano, which led to the music icon visiting and performing at the Centre. The competition, meant to promote his song ‘Pardy’, brought a wave of national attention to the organisation.

Puckerin reflected on the organisation’s rich history, emphasising its humble beginnings and remarkable growth over the years.

“We recently celebrated our 60th anniversary in December,” she shared. “We are a vocational training centre, but before evolving into that, we started as a pilot project during the polio outbreak, with just seven clients. The need was great, and what began as a small initiative to support those affected quickly developed into a more structured organisation, committed to addressing the educational and vocational needs of persons with disabilities. Today, in 2025, we have over 200 students registered, each with unique dreams and ambitions that we strive to nurture.”

The Centre’s expansion over the decades reflects its ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive society. At the heart of NCPD’s mission is a dedication to holistic education.

The Centre offers training in a variety of vocational skills, including woodworking, welding, agriculture, food preparation, beauty culture, office administration, garment construction, printing, and bookbinding. These skills provide students with the tools to build careers in industries that recognise their capabilities rather than their limitations.

However, NCPD’s work extends far beyond vocational training. “We offer life skills, computer literacy, independent living skills, music, and art because we believe in providing a holistic education,” she explained. “We want our students to not only be competent in their chosen trade but also to develop the confidence and independence necessary to navigate everyday life.”

This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates of the Centre are well-rounded individuals, capable of advocating for themselves and integrating seamlessly into their communities.

The inclusion of creative arts, for example, allows students to express themselves, build self-confidence, and engage with the world in ways that go beyond traditional employment opportunities.

Breaking barriers and building confidence 

Despite the significant progress made over the years, Puckerin acknowledged that persons with disabilities still face major societal challenges. “There’s still a stigma. People see them as vulnerable, and they are often taken advantage of,” she noted. “Many are underestimated, excluded from opportunities, and overlooked in workplaces. This is why our mission goes beyond skill-building—it is about self-esteem building.”

By fostering an environment where students feel valued and empowered, the NCPD helps them develop the confidence to push past barriers. “We want them to feel good and proud about themselves,” Puckerin stated. “They need to know that their contributions to society are just as meaningful as anyone else’s. Our job is to give them the tools, the training, and the belief in themselves to go out into the world and thrive.”

The Centre’s advocacy efforts extend beyond its student body, as it continuously works to educate the public on the importance of inclusion and equal opportunities. Through sensitisation sessions, awareness campaigns, and collaborations with companies, the NCPD strives to dismantle misconceptions about disability and encourage a more accepting and supportive society.

A celebration to remember 

Winning Montano’s competition was a pivotal moment for the NCPD, and Puckerin made it clear that it was a deeply emotional experience. “Words cannot express how exciting and fulfilling it was to see Machel here,” she said. “The students stood in that sun for almost two hours just enjoying themselves and partying. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

But what stood out most was Montano’s genuine interaction with the students. “Machel and his entire team didn’t just come to perform. He invited the students on stage—something that usually doesn’t happen,” she recounted. “Some of them didn’t want to leave the stage, and he just let them stay. He wanted them to fully enjoy the experience.”

She also described a touching moment when students who are deaf were seen dancing. “Some people asked me, ‘They can’t hear, right? So how are they dancing in tune?’ I had to explain that they feel the beats,” she said. “It was really an exciting experience.”

The competition victory and Montano’s visit provided the NCPD with unprecedented exposure, something Puckerin plans to capitalise on. “This is what we needed to break that barrier—not just for NCPD, but for the entire disability community,” she said. “We’ve always done sensitisation and advocacy sessions, but this gave us that big push.”

Interest in the Centre has surged since the event. “Every day this week, I’ve had an interview. People want to learn more about NCPD and the disability community, and that’s exactly what we need,” she said.

With growing interest, Puckerin encouraged the public to get involved. “If you want to contribute, you can reach out to us at 652-4880 or email us at ncpd.trinidad@gmail.com,” she shared. “We’ll provide bank account details for financial contributions, or you can call if you want to volunteer.”

For Puckerin, the experience reinforced a powerful message: “See the ability, not the disability.”

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