TTFA Safeguarding leads Caribbean Guardians initiative
TTFA Safeguarding Manager to Lead Caribbean Guardians Initiative
A new chapter in regional safeguarding collaboration has begun with the appointment of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) Safeguarding Manager to lead Caribbean Guardians, an emerging network of safeguarding professionals and advocates across the Caribbean.
Caribbean Guardians is an initiative formed by graduates of the globally recognized FIFA Guardians Programme, bringing together trained safeguarding practitioners committed to strengthening child protection systems within sport. The initiative aims to coordinate education, training, and advocacy efforts throughout the Caribbean, while also supporting broader international safeguarding goals.
The organisation reflects a strong regional presence, with representatives from Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, the British Virgin Islands, The Bermuda, and Dominica. This diverse network allows for shared learning, collaboration, and the development of context-specific safeguarding solutions across island states.
At the helm of the organisation is President Gary St. Rose (Trinidad and Tobago), whose leadership is expected to guide the strategic direction of Caribbean Guardians. Supporting him is a dynamic executive team comprising:
- 1st Vice President: Kia Prince (St. Vincent and the Grenadines)
- 2nd Vice President: Merere Gonzales (Trinidad and Tobago)
- 3rd Vice President: Crystal Walters (Jamaica)
The formation of Caribbean Guardians signals a significant step forward in regional safeguarding coordination. By leveraging the expertise of FIFA Guardians graduates, the initiative seeks to build capacity among coaches, administrators, and organisations to create safer sporting environments for children and vulnerable individuals.
In his remarks, President Gary St. Rose emphasized the importance of collaboration:
“Safeguarding is not the responsibility of one country or one organisation—it is a shared commitment. Caribbean Guardians provides a platform for us to work together, learn from each other, and raise the standard of protection for all participants in sport across the region.”
The TTFA Safeguarding Manager’s leadership role further highlights Trinidad and Tobago’s growing influence in safeguarding development within football. Through this initiative, the TTFA continues to demonstrate its commitment to not only national but regional advancement in player welfare and protection.
Caribbean Guardians will focus on:
- Delivering safeguarding training and certification programmes
- Supporting policy development and implementation
- Promoting awareness and advocacy campaigns
- Facilitating knowledge sharing among Caribbean nations
As safeguarding continues to gain prominence within global sport, the establishment of Caribbean Guardians represents a proactive and unified approach to ensuring that all athletes—especially children—can participate in safe, supportive, and empowering environments.
