On Friday May 9, 2025 the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services joined family and friends in celebrating the 100th birthday of Hyacinth Headley, affectionately known as ‘Pounce’. The joyous occasion was held at the St. Margaret of Antioch Anglican Church, Belmont and fittingly took place on her birthday.
Born in 1925, Ms. Headley grew up on Belmont Valley Road, Belmont, where she developed the deep-rooted sense of community and faith that has guided her throughout her life.
She arrived at her birthday celebration with a smile, proudly announcing “It’s my birthday!” Her energy and warmth filled the space as well-wishers gathered to honour a life marked by love, strength and community.
Senator Dr. Natalie Chaitan-Maharaj, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry, shared in the celebration, extending heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Headley on reaching this extraordinary milestone. She praised the new centenarian for a life of resilience, faith and family, noting that her 100th birthday is a moment of national pride and personal triumph.
A proud mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, Ms. Headley remains active through reading, prayer and time spent with her extended family. She attributes her longevity to “contentment, peace of mind and belief in Christ.” Her favourite scripture, the 23rd Psalm, continues to inspire her daily. When asked to share her advice with younger generations, she simply encouraged all to “live in love.”
Ms. Headley’s legacy includes one child, six grandchildren, thirty-eight great-grandchildren and ten great-great-grandchildren, each a reflection of the values she has lived by.
The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services, through the National Centenarian Programme, honours Ms. Hyacinth Headley, whose 100 years reflect a life of strength, faith, and family devotion. The Ministry remains committed to celebrating the lives and
contributions of older persons across Trinidad and Tobago. Hampers and a birthday cake were kindly sponsored by National Flour Mills Ltd. and Kiss Baking Company Ltd.
To register for the National Centenarian Programme, please visit the Ministry’s website at www.social.gov.tt to complete the online form or print a downloadable form for completion. For more information, persons may contact the Division of Ageing at 623 – 2608, Ext. 2001 to 2009, or 800-OPIC (6742).