Maroc - NEWSDAY.CO.TT - A la Une - 09/Aug 17:04

Arts activist Walid Baksh has died

Well-known educator and playwright Walid Baksh has died. Baksh, 74, an executive member of the San Fernando Arts Council (SFAC), received the Humming Bird Medal (silver) for community service, culture and education in 2022. He died on August 8. On August 9, the SFAC offered its heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. "Baksh was a stalwart of the SFAC and a dedicated supporter of the arts, particularly in the realms of theatre and drama. His passion for the arts was evident in his work as a writer, producer, and director, where he inspired countless individuals to pursue their creative endeavors," a statement said. "His vision and dedication to the performing arts contributed significantly to the vibrant cultural landscape of our community." Throughout his tenure with the council, Baksh is said to have worked tirelessly to promote local talent and foster an appreciation for the arts in the community. The statement added, "His leadership and commitment made a lasting impact on both artists and audiences alike. He will be remembered not only for his artistic contributions but also for his unwavering support and encouragement to those around him. "As we reflect on his life and achievements, we encourage everyone to honour Baksh's legacy by continuing to support the arts in our community." One of his sons, Micah Baksh, who works with Newsday, provided a statement about Baksh. He described his father, a retired primary schoolteacher, as an astute cultural activist. Baksh served at SFAC for over 25 years and was part of the team that successfully petitioned for the refurbishment of the Creative Arts Centre at Circular Road in San Fernando. He wrote, produced and directed popular theatrical productions such as Thorns in the Roses, Christmas Spirits, Mere Dost and Jahaaji. Baksh, who lived in Marabella, held many titles. "As treasurer, and later director, of the National Junior Arts Festival, Baksh was instrumental in securing sponsorship for the festival from the National Gas Company of TT, which enabled the festival to blossom into the success it is today," Micah said. "He served his community as a past member of the management committee of the San Fernando Hill and the Carnegie Free Library management committee, and also served on the San Fernando Carnival Committee as judge and judges' co-ordinator." Baksh was also the founder of the Artistic Cultural Troupe, based in San Fernando, and served as a Best Village judge (Drama) for over 20 years. Baksh encouraged and mentored others in the arts, leading various workshops for ages. In 2022, this reporter interviewed Baksh about receiving the national award. The father of two recalled working 12 years at Libertville Trinidad Muslim League (TML) primary school in Rio Claro and later at San Fernando TML. He worked as a teacher for 38 years and retired in 2010. He recalled teaching standard five students and preparing them for the Common Entrance examinations (now called Secondary Entrance Assessment). Baksh said he was the first teacher in a TML school to get 100 per cent passes for three consecutive years, around 1977, 1978, and 1979. A former Naparima Boys' College student, he shared memories of taking part in secondary-school festivals with classmates like Ralph Maraj, and the late Devindra Dookie and Tony Hall – major contributors to culture and the arts. Baksh also praised his literature teacher, the late James Lee Wah, founder and first chairman of the SFAC. The post Arts activist Walid Baksh has died appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.