Build confidence, clarity and control when it matters most
About the Workshop
In today’s fast-moving media and digital landscape, crises can escalate in minutes not hours. Whether you’re managing stakeholders, media enquiries, or digital backlash, organisations need communication strategies that are fast, accurate and reputationally sound.
The Public Relations Association of Trinidad & Tobago (PRATT) in collaboration with Westfield Communications presents a practical, high-impact Crisis Communications Workshop designed for professionals who need to respond with confidence, not confusion, under pressure.
Workshop Details
Date: Thursday, 19 March 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Venue: Police Credit Union Auditorium, 33-35 Eastern Main Road, Barataria
Certificate of Participation provided
Includes: Soft drinks and food
Format: In-Person, Interactive, hands-on, scenario-based training
Registration & Pricing
Cost:
- PRATT Members: TT$400
- Non-Members: TT$500
- Groups of 3 or More: TT$450 each
Who Should Attend
This workshop is ideal for:
Public Relations & Communications Professionals
Corporate & Non-profit Leaders
Public Sector & Government Communications Teams
HR, Risk, Compliance & Stakeholder Relations Professionals
Spokespersons & Media Liaison Officers
What You’ll Learn
Participants will develop real-world skills in:
Understanding how crises unfold in traditional and digital media environments
Preparing effective messaging when time is limited
Drafting key statements, holding lines, and structured responses
Responding to media enquiries and live interview scenarios
Managing misinformation, rumours and digital backlash
Aligning internal teams and leadership during high-stakes moments
Protecting reputation and trust after the crisis
Programme at a Glance
8:30 – 9:00 AM
Participants check in and complete a short pulse assessment to gauge their current confidence and readiness in crisis situations.
9:00 – 10:00 AM
Facilitated by Nicole Duke-Westfield
Explore how crises unfold, why the first hours matter most, and how regional media and digital platforms influence escalation.
10:00 – 11:15 AM
Learn how to build effective crisis protocols, rapid-response teams, and internal escalation pathways.
Includes a focused session on digital crisis escalation led by LaShaun Ramdin and insights on media monitoring and social listening from Media InSite.
11:15 – 11:30 AM
Break
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Develop practical skills in writing holding statements, communicating with empathy and authority, and responding when facts are still emerging.
Includes discussion on leadership dynamics during crises with Paul Charles.
12:30 – 1:15 PM
Lunch
1:15 – 2:45 PM
Participants take part in a live, evolving crisis scenario designed for the Trinidad and Tobago context. Teams will assess risk, assign roles, update messages, and respond to media queries in real time.
2:45 – 3:45 PM
Practical guidance on handling interviews, avoiding messaging pitfalls, and maintaining leadership presence. Includes on-camera mock interview practice.
3:45 – 4:00 PM
Break
4:00 – 4:30 PM
Focus on post-crisis recovery, rebuilding trust, managing rumours and digital narratives, and strengthening organisational learning.
4:30 PM
Key takeaways, participant reflections, distribution of resource materials, and presentation of certificates from PRATT and Westfield Communications.
What You’ll Leave With
Attendees will walk away with:
A crisis response checklist you can use immediately A Holding Statement template ready for your organisation A Crisis Roles & Responsibilities matrix A Digital crisis guide: do’s & don’ts for social platforms Access to workshop materials for ongoing reference Certificate of Participation
Interview tips and Media preparation
Facilitator — Lead ExperT
Nicole Duke-Westfield
Principal Consultant, Westfield Communications
Nicole Duke-Westfield is a seasoned strategic communications expert with decades of experience in crisis and issues management, reputation and change management, and public relations. Her extensive career includes leading diverse, cross-functional teams in global organizations to deliver impactful communications that align with business and marketing objectives. With deep expertise in the Caribbean region, including both English and Dutch-speaking markets, Nicole has crafted comprehensive employee communications and PR strategies tailored to multicultural audiences.
Known for her critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and journalistic skills, Nicole is a results-driven leader who excels in agile environments. A skilled public speaker and presenter, she remains passionate about storytelling, social media, and embracing new technologies. She holds an MSc in Global Strategic Communication, Mass Communication, and Media Studies from Florida International University, reflecting her dedication to continuous learning and professional growth.
Featured Session: Digital Crisis Communications
LaShaun Ramdin
President, PRATT | Digital Strategist
Digital platforms are now frontline crisis channels. In this session, LaShaun will cover:
- Why digital matters in crisis response
- How misinformation spreads across platforms
- What to do and what to avoid online during a crisis
- Real examples and practical tips
Official Sponsor
FAQs
Yes. Whether you’re new to crisis communications or looking for a refresher, this workshop is structured for practical learning at all levels.
Yes, all participants receive a Certificate of Attendance.
Light food and soft drinks will be provided.
Yes, discounted group rates apply for teams of 3 or more. Please contact us at info.pratt@gmail.com if interested.
Registered participants will receive venue confirmation via email. It will also be shared on our social media channels.
Update: We are pleased to announce the Venue: Police Credit Union Auditorium, 33-35 Eastern Main Road, Barataria