ROOTS CAFÉTT – Creative Academy for EduTainmenT represents a bold vision for the adaptive reuse and heritage redevelopment of the historic Tunapuna Old Post Office into a modern centre for education, creativity, innovation, and community transformation. Led by The Oral Tradition ROOTS Foundation, the project seeks to preserve the architectural and cultural significance of this national landmark while reimagining it as a dynamic learning environment dedicated to youth development, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, arts education, and lifelong learning. More than a refurbishment project, ROOTS CAFÉTT is a crime prevention, education, and nation-building initiative designed to create pathways of opportunity for underserved communities across Trinidad and Tobago.
Recognized within the National Trust Heritage Asset Inventory and endorsed under the Heritage Tax Allowance Programme (HTAP), the redevelopment of ROOTS CAFÉTT reflects a powerful intersection of heritage preservation and social innovation. Guided by the Foundation’s STREAM Model – Storytelling, Training, Reading, Entrepreneurship, Arts, and Mentorship – the space will function as a Creative Arts-Based School and Learning Commons where young people can explore their talents, build practical skills, and transform their futures. ROOTS CAFÉTT stands as a symbol of how historic spaces can be revitalized to inspire creativity, restore community pride, and empower the next generation through culture, education, and mentorship.
