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T&T Consul General Dr. Anil Ramnanan Visits Atlanta

Contributor/Columnist – Elaine Grant-Bryan

Dr. Anil Ramnanan, Consul General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago: His achievements are great examples of my “What, What, What Approach to Success – what you do with what you have determines what you become™”.

ATLANTA – On Saturday, April 16 Consul General Dr. Anil Ramnanan successfully completed his first assignment in his new role. At a meet and greet organized by the Trinidad & Tobago Association at the Karibbean Kultural Konnection Center, the president of the association, Alan Simpson, introduced the Consul General to the audience.

Consul General Dr. Anil Ramnanan and his team shared information about the new computerized passport application process with over one hundred and fifty guests. The five day visit to Atlanta was quite productive as he and his team assisted the Trinidadian-Americans Community with passport and other concerns.

Dr. Ramnanan is a trailblazer from whom everyone can benefit. After completing his veterinarian degree, he has worked in public service for over fifteen years. Dr. Ramnanan spent a few minutes speaking with me prior to the start of the proceedings:


Dr. Anil Ramnanan

Question: Is this your first assignment in the diplomatic/consular service, if not where were you posted before?

Dr. Ramnanan: Yes, This is my first assignment. I was appointed Consul General two months ago.
Question: How has your academic training prepared you for the responsibility you now have?

Dr. Ramnanan: I have been in public service for over fifteen years and during that time I received intensive training by the Ministry of Tourism, Finance Ministry, Human Resources, and Foreign Affairs in protocol and diplomacy. After completing a Veterinarian Medical Degree, I received additional training in Business Management with a focus on Project Management and I obtained a certificate in this field.

Question: As someone representing your country at one of the highest levels, how does that make you feel?

Dr. Ramnanan: It is a challenge, a great responsibility and an opportunity. I welcome the challenge and enjoy serving my county and developing trade and investment opportunities.
Question: How would you describe a good leader and what would you say to young people who see themselves as future leaders?

Dr. Ramnanan: A good leader is someone who can take all the positive aspects of people and lead by example. The new Prime Minister started a revolution by empowering and appointing some younger leaders in key positions. For example: Ambassador Neil Parson. The first female Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, is a great leader who leads by example, she also values the talents of young leaders. A good leader also leads in the front so that others will see and are willing to come on board. Be inclusive of everyone not only the involvement of a few people; speak directly to all groups.

Question: June is Caribbean American Month; would you like to send a message to the Caribbean people?

Dr. Ramnanan: The Caribbean people should promote economic partnership and culture. Trading as a community is vital to the economic survival and progress in the region. Our geographic location in relation to the United States gives us great bargaining power. We should also promote Cricket throughout the United States as this tells a story of our history and is an important part of our culture in addition to our food and music. Focus on Trade and this begins by bringing the people together, include all the islands while trading as a unit with the United States. By the way, I would also like to commend Trinidadian Jennifer Caroll who made history as the first woman elected as Lieutenant Governor in the state of Florida, who the Consul General also mentioned in this interview.

It is great to see young, forward –thinking leaders such as Dr. Ramnanan being given the opportunity to represent the people of Trinidad & Tobago in such a high capacity.


L-R: Alan Simpson, Elaine Bryan and Dr. Anil Ramnanan


Elaine Bryan(LSS Alumni Council Member & Columnist) & Alan Simpson (President T&T Atlanta Assoc.)

Elaine Grant-Bryan is a Gleaner Financial Columnist, Empowerment Speaker, 2010-11 Georgia Counselor of the Year, District V1 LSS alumni council member, recipient of the Atlanta Mayor’s Phoenix Award and Governor’s Commendation for her contributions to Educational & Civic Leadership. Visit www.elainebryan.com

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