The Very Reverend Shelley-Ann Tenia is a groundbreaking figure in the Anglican Diocese of Trinidad and Tobago, serving as the first female Dean and Rector of the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Appointed in December 2017 by Anglican Bishop Claude Berkley at the age of 41. She was born and raised in San Fernando.

Dean Tenia holds a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and human services counseling, and a Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Theological Seminary in the USA. Her journey in the church includes being ordained a deacon in May 2005, serving at St. John’s Church in Barbados, and then at Holy Trinity Cathedral. She was ordained a priest in October 2006. Prior to her current roles, she served as an assistant curate at All Saints Parish and was installed as priest in charge at Holy Saviour Parish in Curepe in December 2012, becoming its rector in 2014.

In her significant positions, she is responsible for leading the parish as senior priest and representing the church nationally and at the diocesan level. She also chairs the Cathedral Chapter, advising the bishop on spiritual, theological, and administrative matters. Dean Tenia emphasizes the church’s vital role in civic engagement and national service, aiming to build upon the cathedral’s legacy since 1823.