Inside the Legacy of Desha Rambhajan-Malli: Trinidad’s Most Beloved News Anchor
Photo Courtesy of Desha Rambhajan
November 20, 2025
written by Carolyn Kristy Correia
Desha Rambhajan-Malli is a Caribbean woman who sees herself as part of Trinidad and Tobago’s diverse cultural fabric. Having studied and lived in Canada for six years, the news anchor says the experience deeply shaped her understanding of identity and independence.
“Back home, I was seen as ‘Indian,’ but in Canada, I was simply ‘Trinidadian’—a representative of the Caribbean as a whole.”
Rambhajan-Malli says that shift taught her the value of embracing her roots, not just as a reflection of one culture but as a blend of many. It was a reminder that Caribbean identity is multifaceted, and that in multicultural spaces, people often carry the stories of entire regions. Being away from home also pushed her to grow and learn to navigate life on her own.
“Managing responsibilities, solving problems and building a support system from scratch. It wasn’t always easy, but it made me stronger, more resourceful and confident in my ability to stand on my own.”
To be Caribbean, she says, is to navigate and thrive in a rich tapestry of cultures, blending heritage and resilience with fierce grace—“always rooted in where I come from, yet open to the world.”
Rambhajan-Malli believes she has found her purpose. Journalism, she says, has become her true professional calling, and she has willingly devoted her best working years to it. She previously held positions in retail, book publishing and corporate communications, but journalism provides an outlet to use her God-given talents—talents she believes everyone has a responsibility to use for the greater good.
Her journey to becoming the 7 p.m. anchor on Trinidad and Tobago’s leading station, CCN TV6, was a gradual one. And if she had to choose between anchoring and reporting—and she did—the journalist says that while reporting holds a special place in her heart, she chose anchoring for several professional and familial reasons.
“As the main anchor, you’re either all in or not in at all. There’s no in-between, no extended breaks, because the role doesn’t wait. I didn’t want to lose momentum. Still, there’s a unique fulfillment in shining a light on an issue, giving voice to the unheard, and knowing that a story told well can spark both personal and national change.”
Rambhajan-Malli began at the Mirror newspaper two decades ago, which she says lit a creative spark, but “television found her.” She started her TV career at World Indian Network Television (WINTV) in 2006, followed by Caribbean New Media Group (CNMG) in 2007, before landing her current position at CCN TV6 in 2014.
Back then, her typical day at WINTV included research; reporting on crime, politics and human-interest stories; hosting morning and evening shows—Conversations with the Nation and Live and Learn—and ending the day by anchoring the 7 p.m. newscast.
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After her “one year of baptism by fire” at WINTV, she moved to CNMG, where she developed the toughness she needed for the years ahead, honed her skills and deepened her commitment to journalism. She started as a field reporter and rotational anchor. In 2009, she became the C News sports anchor, and in 2010, she was appointed main anchor. Her work focused heavily on Parliament, post-Cabinet briefings and press conferences—assignments that came with being a lead anchor. She also hosted a current affairs program on Talk City Radio titled Counter Point.
In 2014, Rambhajan-Malli made the bold move to CCN TV6 and has not looked back. She recalls the newsroom being alive with energy and full of new and familiar faces—many of whom had crossed over during CNMG’s mass exodus years before.
“What struck me most at this station was the bold, brave approach to delivering the news. TV6’s journalistic style was fearless: undaunted by politicians, unshaken by the underworld and led with unwavering conviction from the top. It’s no surprise the TV6 News reigns at number one. The public trusts us… because they can.”
Photo Courtesy of Desha Rambhajan
Rambhajan-Malli credits her work ethic to her small, close-knit nuclear family and a large extended family. She says her father’s unwavering dedication to his profession deeply shaped her.
“His quiet discipline, remarkable competence and ability to accomplish an extraordinary amount with focus and humility have set a powerful example. Watching him consistently show up, no matter the circumstance, taught me the value of commitment, excellence and resilience—lessons that have guided me in both my personal ambitions and professional journey.”
Her academic path is equally impressive. A proud graduate of Naparima Girls’ High School, she pursued English, philosophy and communications at the University of Toronto, followed by postgraduate studies in publishing at Ryerson University.
Her advice to young graduates pursuing journalism is simple: read everything.
“Develop your writing and presenting skills. Find your authentic voice. And don’t get into this field to be famous, because it will humble you quickly. Also don’t get into this field to be rich—this is for passion, not pursuits.”
Rambhajan-Malli says marriage has changed her in meaningful ways. One of the biggest adjustments has been learning to share her space.
“Before marriage, I was used to having things my way—everything had its place, and I made decisions independently. Now, I share not just physical space, but emotional and mental space, too. From small things like closet space to bigger compromises like home décor and daily routines, I’ve learned the importance of balance and flexibility.”
She says sharing space also brings comfort, knowing there is always someone to talk to, unwind with or sit beside in silence.
“That closeness and companionship have added a deeper layer of meaning to my daily life. So while I’ve had to make some changes, they’ve all contributed to a stronger sense of partnership and love.”
Over the years, viewers have shared kind and memorable words with her. A few stand out.
A well-known businessman told her, “When you speak, we have to listen. We believe what you say. How do you do that?”
Her reply: “It’s because I first have to believe what I say.”
An elderly housewife once told her, “I choose to listen to you because you are easy on the ears. Your words are clear, your pronunciation precise, and I understand exactly what you’re saying.”
Early in her career, a sitting judge stopped her in the mall to express admiration for her composure on air. “You’re always calm and in control,” he said. “It makes me feel anchored.”
She emphasizes, however, that an entire control room team helps create that “calm and control.”
As for her long-term goals, Rambhajan-Malli says she has always worked quietly and intentionally.
“There is value and power in not sharing your plans. Sometimes the best progress happens when no one is watching.”
