The people in the arts have an innate passion for people and their development. I think it is because the artist, through the development of others, finds a canvas to paint the masterpiece that burns inside of them. Countless numbers of people have benefited from that symbiotic relationship. Whether it be between our youths and some community sport teacher, a dedicated steel pan teacher or in this case, this dancer teacher.
Torrance Mohammed, a well-known national icon of the arts, gave people all over the world a livelihood due to his teachings and administrative skills. His passion to serve, also made him a councillor, an alderman and at one point the deputy mayor of San Fernando. The manager of Arawaks Dance company; President of the San Ferando Arts council; founder of the Torrance Mohammed Arts Council, these are all elements of his impressive resumé.
People become delinquent for many reasons and all who are in the arts know this. One of the reasons that we know this is because, at some point, we did not quite fit into the one-size-fits- all academic system that existed in the past and still continues on today. Mr. Terrance Mohammed and people like us; we eventually become the safety net for the people who were born to dance or play music or do sports. We are the ones mostly responsible for those potential misfits to be able to find their place in society and support themselves while doing what they love to do. This usually means there is one less menace running around, distressing our community’s residents. We, who sacrifice our own family time to invest into our communities for little or no money, deserve the right to walk these streets without fear. That should be the least expected from others as evidence of appreciation of our work.
Mr. Torrance Mohammed, I knew you would one day leave us, but not like this. Not after all you’ve done. However, I believe that justice will be served, whether it be in this life or another.
Mr. Mohammed you did your part. We thank you. Now, please rest in peace.
Proud southerner,
Aquil Arrindell
Replies
Condolences to the family and the other extended family you so eloquently spoke of in your remembrance. May God be at his side during his transition to join the other greats there. Rest in Peace.
Brenda H.