Cayman: Proud of Them Ceremony Recognises Exceptional Achievers

Grand Cayman, 28 February 2022 – An Olympian, a noted artist and an environmental activist were among 15 young persons whose achievements and talents were celebrated at the Proud of Them Round 13 awards ceremony on Friday, 25 February. The theme of this year’s government initiative is “Honouring Youth Innovations and Excellence.”

The 2022 recipients are Davor Bonilla, Mohyndra Brown, Liana DaCosta, Tashell Dawson, Okezie Eleweanya, John Reno Jackson, Danneika Lyn, Dejea Lyons, Natalia McCoy, Lucas McField, Ashleigh Powell, Raegan Rutty, LaShawn Syms, Aiden Watler and Alanna Warwick-Smith. Each awardee received a cheque for $1,000 along with a Proud of Them certificate. Honourees are also featured on billboards across the Cayman Islands.

Held at the Kimpton Seafire ballroom, by the Youth Services Unit (YSU) of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage (MYSCH), the annual recognition gala highlighted the merits of honourees in areas of community service, business, academics, sports and culture. Honourees who were unable to attend to receive their awards in person where presented by proxies.

MYSCH Minister, Hon. Bernie Bush, who gave remarks and presented awards, said: “Honourees, as you continue to share your talents and skills with our wider community, we look forward to the ripple effect of your excellence. 

“Without knowing it, your talents will inspire other young people to overcome adversity, create new channels for businesses and careers, embrace and take pride inour culture and heritage, and develop unique ways to express themselves in work, life and leisure. You make a monumental difference by aspiring to be the best in whatever you do.”

Proud of Them ceremony attendees included family members, as well as His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Martyn Roper and his wife Mrs. Elisabeth Roper; Minister for Health & Wellness, Hon. Sabrina Turner; and Acting Minister for Planning, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure, Hon. Dwayne Seymour.

In summing up the honourees‘ impact, Head of YSU (Designate) Mr. James Myles said: They are not only recognisable to us, but to their peers, the government and their wider community; where each day they are an advertisment for Caymanian innovation and excellence.“

The Proud of Them Gala also featured performances by poet Lauren Williams, Proud of Them alumna and dancer Cassiedy Davis Quintero and steelpannist Joshua McLean.

(GIS)