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Nalini Pariag is no ordinary woman. She’s referred to as a template for love, peace and resilience. Born and raised in Central Trinidad in Caroni, Savannah Road, Chaguanas, she said she came from a humble, middle-class family, and grew up in a loving home alongside her sisters and one brother.
“Life was filled with fun, strong family values, and togetherness,” she recalled. “My mother, Adillo (Shirley), was a housewife, and my father, Nanan (Babwah), was a cane-cutter for one of the best and still missed industries, Caroni (1975) Limited. From a young age, I understood responsibility, not from merely doing house chores while growing up, but to gain independence and help out my family. At 14 years, I began working; for a short time, I was employed at Leans Supermarket in Chaguanas. This early experience helped shape my independence and work ethic.”
Five years later, Pariag was married and became the mother of four beautiful daughters—Karissa, Ariann, Venesha, and Annya—all while trying her best to make the marriage work. “It was a very difficult one,” Pariag recalled. “The heavy price I paid was being unable to raise my daughters as mothers should, so their grand-mom and aunt did, which I’m grateful for. After 14 years, I made the brave decision to leave, and reflecting on that experience, I’m strongly advising women to truly understand what marriage involves before committing, as it requires patience, sacrifice, and mutual respect.”
A proud Pariag boasted about her daughters: Karrisa, a business owner contributing to the economy; Ariann and Annya, housewives, managing the home; and Venesha, a teacher, offering children a good education, which she (Pariag) didn’t fully receive.
Pariag did not, however, give up on romance and marriage. She said she trusted the process and her heart, which led to a second marriage to Mark Pariag. Though estranged now, the couple share a son, Ashvin. She described her husband as supportive and encouraging, especially when she expressed her desire to start her own business.
“With his backing, I opened my roti shop—right at home—one I always dreamt of, given my passion for cooking, and despite this relationship also facing challenges, I continue to reflect and grow from every experience.”
Despite her daughters being raised between their aunt and grandmother, Pariag recalled some of the ways she imparted motherly knowledge to them as siblings: live lovingly, love each other and respect each other despite differences.
“I also encouraged them to go to school and get a good education, and in whatever little way, I made ends meet to ensure they were ok. We also went to the beach and parks,” recalled Pariag.
The grandmother of five “beautiful grandchildren—Sophie, Emma, Abigail, Reanna and Amara,” said, just like her daughters, grandchildren and siblings, her son holds a very special place in her life. She described him as loving and caring, and as her world. She said motherhood and being motherly are two qualities that could never easily die, no matter the circumstances.
“It has been a journey of learning and growth. While my early experiences as a young mother were challenging, I learned the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and resilience,” Pariag said.
She added, “Many things I missed as a mother when my children were very young, I embrace with my grandchildren. But I never forget how warm yet powerful it felt when holding my children or hugging and kissing them. Today, I teach my son the importance of respecting women, being faithful, and showing love and commitment in relationships.”
The mother of five also had a message for mothers and women in general.
“Women and mothers are the most resilient elements of life. I cherish Mother’s Day, which is in place for others to remember our values, and for women and mothers to remember their purpose and worth. My life story is one of strength, growth, and determination.
“I want my life experiences to inspire both genders—to live in love, value themselves, stay strong through challenges, and never give up on building a better life.”
