The Caribbean Centre for Human Rights (CCHR) is delighted to announce the appointment of Sheldon Sookram as Legal Officer for Strategic Litigation, a key role within the organization. This significant addition to the CCHR team is made possible through the generous support of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Open Society Foundation (OSF), whose contributions empower CCHR’s mission to advance human rights across the Caribbean.
Mr. Sookram will be based at CCHR’s head office located at Plaza de Montrose, Chaguanas, where he will lead efforts to promote impactful human rights litigation and advocacy throughout the region.
Professional Background
Mr. Sookram brings a robust legal background with extensive experience in public law, constitutional law, and judicial review. His legal career includes work with renowned law firms and institutions such as:
- Vivek Lakhan-Joseph and Associates
- Alexander Jeremie and Company
- Freedom Law Chambers
In these roles, he has successfully addressed cases involving:
- Workers’ rights
- Personal injury
- False imprisonment
- Malicious prosecution
His responsibilities have included drafting pleadings, witness statements, legal opinions, and court advocacy.
Academic Achievements and Human Rights Engagement
Mr. Sookram holds:
- A Bachelor of Laws (Hons.) from the University of the West Indies (UWI)
- A Legal Education Certificate (LEC) from Hugh Wooding Law School, where he was recognized for outstanding academic achievements
- He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Corporate and Commercial Law
His commitment to human rights is reflected in his previous involvement in the Hugh Wooding Law School Human Rights Committee, and his representation of Trinidad and Tobago at the Global Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., and New York.
Executive Endorsement
Mary Jo Marsden, Executive Director of CCHR, remarked:
“Sheldon’s appointment marks a significant step forward for the Caribbean Centre for Human Rights. His expertise in strategic litigation will be critical in addressing systemic human rights violations and ensuring greater accountability across the region. Sheldon has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice, and we are thrilled to have him on board.”
Strategic Focus
In his new role, Mr. Sookram will drive CCHR’s Strategic Litigation efforts. This work involves identifying and addressing systemic human rights issues across the Caribbean through high-impact legal actions, reinforcing CCHR’s mission to protect and promote fundamental freedoms in the region.
