Profiles: Heroes, Role Models and Pioneers of Trinidad and Tobago - by Nasser Khan

102 UNICEF on the plight of children and adults living with HIV and AIDS in the Caribbean. Her dream to heighten AIDS awareness in Trinidad and Tobago was realised when The Hibiscus Foundation was founded also in 1998. The name was inspired by her use of the hibiscus flowers in her hair, in the last segment of the Miss Universe Pageant. The Wendy Fitzwilliam Paediatric Hospital at Mt. Hope is named after her. • 1998 Chaconia Medal Gold GISELLE JEANNE-MARIE LARONDE- WEST (1963- ) G iselle Laronde attended St. Peter’s School, Point-a-Pierre and the University of London, England and holds a black belt in karate. At the age of 23 Laronde won the Miss World title as Miss Trinidad & Tobago in London, England, beating out 76 other contestants at the Albert Hall, London, England in 1986. She used her prize money to attend the University of London where she completed a degree in Sociology and Communication. In honour of her accomplishment, a BWIA airplane was named after her and postage stamps issued with her image. • 1987 Chaconia Medal Gold MEILING ESAU (1946- ) H er passion for fashion and fashion design started at an early age. In the early 1970’s she set up her first studio and retail outlet in a renovated garage. She is renowned for her work in fine linens and natural fabrics. Meiling has worked closely with Emmy Award-winning costume designer, Peter Minshall on his Carnival productions and other artistic presentations. This collaboration has won her accolades, notably