George Town, Cayman Islands – 31 March 2025 – Cayman Connection is thrilled to announce the launch of the annual Making Waves Awards Global Programme, celebrating Caymanians making significant contributions worldwide.

Now in its fourth year, the Making Waves Awards continue to recognise and celebrate the exceptional achievements of Caymanians making significant contributions both at home and abroad. Organised by Cayman Connection, these awards honour individuals who exemplify excellence, leadership, and community spirit. 

Cayman Connection plays a pivotal role in supporting Caymanians overseas, providing a vital network and resources to help them thrive in their personal and professional endeavours. By highlighting the successes of these remarkable individuals, the Making Waves Awards not only inspire others but also underscore the importance of nurturing and empowering Caymanians to make a global impact.

“Caymanians all around the world are making waves in so many incredible ways, whether through business, the arts, sports, or philanthropy. These awards serve as a way to acknowledge and amplify their contributions,” said Kate Kandiah, Founding Director at Cayman Connection. “We encourage the public to nominate deserving individuals and join us in celebrating their success.”

Winners of the Making Waves Awards receive a bursary towards their further education or career development and participate in a year-long programme with Cayman Connection. This includes mentoring support, Q&A webinars, podcasts, and PR opportunities to further share their story to inspire others.

Cayman Connection is encouraging all at home and overseas to participate in the awards by nominating a Caymanian who is living overseas and excelling in their field. Nominations open on 1 April 2025 and close on 9^th May 2025.

Anyone submitting a nomination is performing a true act of ‘Caymankind’ by recognising a Caymanian who is making waves in their field. As a special incentive, nominators will be entered into a prize draw to win a flight to visit their Making Waves nominee or to fly back home to the Cayman Islands. (*T&C apply).

A diverse team of judges, bringing a range of knowledge, skills, and experience across various disciplines, will meticulously review all submissions. The panel consists of Marzeta Bodden, Shomari Scott, Sheree Ebanks, Winston Connolly, and Dr. Tasha Ebanks Garcia. The team will evaluate entries using a predetermined scoring matrix, with criteria including: excellence, promotion of the Cayman Islands and ‘Caymankind’ overseas, entrepreneurialism, innovation, teamwork, passion and enthusiasm, community service and philanthropy

The winners will be announced at the Making Waves Awards Ceremony in Grand Cayman on 31 July 2025. These awards are made possible through the generous support of our valued sponsors, including the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Youth, Sports & Heritage, Bullish, Ministry of Health and Wellness, and Maples Group.

How to Nominate – Be a part of the Making Waves movement and help us shine a light on our overseas talent!

Nominations can be submitted online at: www.caymanconnection.org/making-waves-awards-2025-nominations/.

For more information about the Making Waves Awards or sponsorship opportunities, email makingwaves@caymanconnection.org.

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About Cayman Connection: Cayman Connection is a global network dedicated to supporting Caymanians overseas by providing essential resources, connections, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through initiatives like the Making Waves Awards, the organisation continues to foster a strong sense of community and pride among Caymanians worldwide.