Mark Ayen,
TTCBA President
From the grand stage of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival to international platforms of cultural discourse, Mark Anthony Ayen has solidified his reputation as a dynamic leader, innovator, and advocate for the preservation and evolution of mas. His journey began at just two years old, competing in the Individual of the Year category before ascending to the ranks of Junior King of Carnival, a title he claimed, cementing his status as a celebrated figure in the Carnival arts.
A Legacy of Leadership in Mas: Ayen’s passion for mas evolved into leadership when he was appointed Band Manager for Carnival Babies TT, transforming the band into a powerhouse in Junior Carnival, securing its first Junior (Large) Band of the Year title in 2013 and earning numerous accolades throughout his tenure. His commitment to youth engagement and excellence saw the brand thrive from 2010 to 2020, winning multiple titles, including Junior King, Junior Queen, Individual of the Year, and Spirit of Carnival. Determined to create his own legacy, Ayen founded Dirty Medics Carnival Ltd. in 2017, debuting Dirty Medics J’ouvert in 2018.
Today, the brand has grown into a Carnival staple, catering to over 3,000 masqueraders annually in Port of Spain. Not stopping there, he launched DMC Kids Mas in 2020, merging his passion for youth development with mas. His first presentation welcomed 500 children, securing 2nd Place (Large) Band of the Year and multiple category titles. By 2023, DMC Kids had expanded its influence, winning Downtown Band of the Year and various Large Band competitions. At just 30 years old, Ayen celebrated a historic achievement, winning his first Junior Band of the Year title in 2024. Education, Service, and Cultural Innovation: Beyond his contributions to the Carnival landscape, Ayen has his head on. He is a graduate of St. Mary’s College and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in International Relations from the University of the West Indies (UWI). Additionally, he has further honed his expertise in event execution with a Postgraduate Certificate in Executive Events Management. A dedicated Trinidad and Tobagonian, Ayen has also had the privilege of serving in the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) before assuming the leadership of the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association (TTCBA). His service to both national security and cultural development highlights his unwavering commitment to his country and its people.
Expanding the Reach of Carnival: In response to the global pandemic in 2021, Ayen conceptualized Design Me TnT (DMTT), a groundbreaking virtual competition that provided a platform for 40 young designers, preserving the Carnival spirit while adhering to COVID-19 regulations. Recognized and sanctioned by the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association (TTCBA), DMTT set a precedent for creative adaptation in the industry. His Education Through Culture initiative, launched in 2020, continues to empower young minds by fostering mas-making skills across Trinidad and Tobago. Partnering with the TTPS Youth Club of Bagatelle, the programme engaged 40 children aged 8-17, ensuring the next generation remains deeply connected to the art form. Under Ayen’s visionary leadership, Dirty Medics Carnival has expanded beyond local borders, offering J’ouvert, Adult, and Children’s Mas presentations in Toronto, Miami, New York, and the UK. His influence is further amplified through his role as President of the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association (TTCBA)\, making history in May 2023 as the third and youngest individual ever elected to the position.
Global Recognition & Future Contributions: In 2024, Ayen’s impact was formally recognized on an international scale. He received a Citation and Certificate of Recognition from Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston for his dedication, passion, and commitment to uplifting Caribbean culture abroad. His expertise in Carnival’s cultural and economic landscape has also earned him a Keynote Speaker position at the International Carnival Convention in Miami (January 2025), where he addressed the theme “Balancing Culture vs. Economics in Carnival" and introduce the International Kings and Queens of Carnival Competition conversation. A true cultural ambassador, entrepreneur, and thought leader, Mark Ayen continues to shape the future of Carnival, ensuring that the legacy of Trinidad and Tobago’s greatest festival not only thrives but expands to greater heights.
