We recently had the chance to connect with Merina Neal and have shared our conversation below.
Merina, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
There will always be at least one person you can’t satisfy or make happy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Merina Neal, also known as Trinny Cee, is a veteran event strategist and project manager with over 25 years of experience in event production, marketing, communications, and project leadership. With a foundation in accounting and a passion for culture, she has earned a reputation for producing dynamic, meaningful, and highly organized experiences that celebrate Afro-Caribbean heritage.
She is the founder of Trinny Cee Productions, established in 1987, which curates and produces unforgettable Afro-Caribbean events across the Midwest, Canada, and Jamaica. Merina has worked with major industry players, including AEG Live, Live Nation, First Avenue, Cabooze, and several top venues throughout the Twin Cities. Signature events under her leadership include the Minnesota Dancehall Queen, International Dancehall Queen, the Minnesota Tropical Music & Food Festival, and Rondo Days.
Merina is also a committed community leader. She serves on the boards of Rondo Avenue Inc., the Jamaica, Minnesota Organization, and is a Consortium member for the Caribbean Disaster Relief Fund of Minnesota, where she continues to use her platform to elevate cultural voices and support community initiatives. Outside of her event work, she hosts the monthly TV show Live On Stage Twin Cities on CCX Media, highlighting local talent and cultural happenings.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful: September 12, 2015 — the night I was the local female street promoter for the nearly sold-out Catch a Fire show (Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, Morgan Heritage & Tarrus Riley). AEG trusted me, the crowd showed up, and my sons watched Mom’s Super Powers in action. 💪🏽✨ #MomPower #CatchAFire
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
“In July 2024, I stopped hiding my pain as a domestic violence survivor and began using it as power. After losing my auntie Carmelita and cousin Calida to domestic violence on January 2, 2024, I committed to honoring their lives by educating our Caribbean community. I survived — they didn’t — and I refuse to let their story be silenced.”
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
We’re diverse because we have a woman at the table.”
Gender isn’t monolithic — but industries act as though hiring or featuring one woman checks the box, ignoring intersectionality and the need for multiple voices.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
My clients value my ability to create joy by curating unforgettable Caribbean experiences where they can dance, connect, and celebrate life.”
