We first introduced Unsung Heroes in 2003 as the flagship corporate social responsibility programme of the bank. The programme ran from 2003 to 2013 and was relaunched in 2025. It was created to honour everyday people across the Caribbean who were quietly making a big difference in their communities. The programme was designed to spotlight those who work selflessly for the good of others without recognition or reward. Now we see a need more than ever to show our Caribbean people examples of themselves doing good in our societies. 

Heroes are nominated by the public in each country where we operate. Each country will have its own panel of local judges responsible for reviewing and selecting national winners. These winners will be celebrated at local award ceremonies. 

Following this, one hero from each country will join a regional judging panel to review national winners and select recipients of the regional awards.  Regional honourees will be invited to attend a regional award ceremony.

All decisions made by the judging panels are final!
 

The regional prizes are as follows:

   - Regional winner receives US 10,000
   - 1st runner up receives US $7,000
   - 2nd runner up receives US $5,000

The country prizes are as follows:

  - In-country winner receives US $5,000
  - In-country runner up receives US $2,500

The person who nominates the Regional Unsung Hero winner also receives US $1,000.00.

If CIBC Caribbean is in your country, you're in! The programme is open to every country CIBC Caribbean serves. 

1.    Unsung Heroes is open to Caribbean people aged 10 and older
2.    The award is open to individuals only
3.    Work should be strictly voluntary
4.    Nominees should not be working on behalf of any political or business entities
5.    Nominees should not have been previously publicly rewarded for their work.
6.    Nominees should be of good character with no recent (5 years or more) criminal record
7.    Nominees should be willing to have their stories, likeness or images used in publicity for the programme: Please secure permission from the nominee before submitting the nomination!

  Unsung Heroes is open to Caribbean people aged 10 and older

No, but individuals can nominate you.

No. Nominees should be individuals only. Nominees should not be working on behalf of any political or business entities

Please use the following to create your nomination:

Nominations can be made via

1. A video no longer than 1 minute and 30 seconds in duration

2. A written nomination between 300 and 400 words accompanied by photos

Include below details:

* Full Name.
* Country
* Age
* Sex
* Why are you nominating the person? Brief description of the person’s community work or act of bravery
* Who benefits/benefitted from the “act”
* In the case of community work, how long have they been involved?
* In the case of an act of bravery/extraordinary act of kindness, what date did this occur?
* This programme is designed to reward those who have not been previously exposed to significant publicity. Has there been any publicity around this individual that you are aware of?
* What detail makes this person stand out among others?
* If you had to say one thing to this person, what would that be?

Candidates can be nominated in either one of the following categories: 

1. Outstanding work in the community

Social programmes
The environment
Mentorship

2. An act of heroism/bravery/honesty within the 12 months preceding the start of the year’s campaign that has not be previously rewarded

Please use the guidelines provided above to submit your nomination.

Remember to secure permission from the nominee before submitting the nomination!

• Submit your video or written nomination to unsungheroes@cibccaribbean.com

• The subject of your email should follow the following format:

Subject: [country] submission - Unsung Heroes 2026 - [Nominee Name]

Example: Antigua submission – Unsung Heroes 2026 – Joe Smith

• Nominations submitted after the deadline will not be accepted. Deadline: July 31, 2026

Please note if your video file is too large, place in a zipped folder to send our email successfully.

Please be guided by the following submission checklist

1.    Nominate a hero that fits the criteria of the 2 listed categories above.
2.    Seek and secure permission from the nominees. Nominees should be willing to have their stories, likeness or images used in publicity for the programme
3.    Follow the nomination guidelines to create your submission
4.    Submit the nomination via the email provided, using the subject line provided.
5.    Submit by deadline: July 31, 2026
 

Please note if your video file or photos are too large, place in a zipped folder to send our email successfully.

The deadline for submissions is July 31, 2026.

Professor C. Justin Robinson, Principal of the UWI Five Islands Campus heads the impressive, local judging panel which will select the Antigua and Barbuda’s Unsung Hero.

Professor Robinson obtained his PhD in Finance from the University of Manchester, UK. He also holds an MSc in Finance and Econometrics from Florida International University and a BSc. in Management Studies (First Class Honours) from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados.

His leadership roles at the UWI over the past two decades have been instrumental in shaping the academic landscape. He has served as the Head of the Department of Management Studies, Executive Director of Sagicor Cave Hill School of Business & Management, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, pro vice chancellor of the Board for Undergraduate Studies, Pro Vice Chancellor of Academic/Industry Partnerships, and Principal of UWI Five Islands Campus. 

Jamilla Kirwan, a respected media and communications specialist, actress and empowerment coach with over two decades of experience shaping narratives and mentoring local talent. A trained broadcast journalist and former co-host of Good Morning Antigua & Barbuda, she is widely recognized for her contributions to media, pageantry, and self-development.

A celebrated former Queen of Carnival and Jaycees Caribbean Queen, she brings firsthand insight into excellence, discipline, and the transformative power of performance and creative expression. 

As Media Relations Specialist for the Ayre Group of Companies, Manager of the Calvin Ayre Foundation, and Producer of the InspAyre docu-series, she exemplifies a deep commitment to social impact, authentic storytelling, and the upliftment of communities.

Valerie Gonsalves-Barreiro is a community activist par excellence. She was the first female president of the Lions Club of Antigua and is also the first female Sexton of the Cathedral of St. John Divine, a position she currently holds. On 1^st November, 2017 she was honoured by Antigua and Barbuda with a National Award and became a Member of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit, MM, for her outstanding and dedicated service to the community.

A Visionary Leader and Philanthropist Adrianna Fox, born on May 27th, 1988, in Nassau, Bahamas, is a prominent Bahamian businessperson and philanthropist renowned for her dynamic leadership and unwavering dedication to community empowerment. Adrianna’s journey reflects her resilience, strategic thinking, and commitment to excellence.

Adrianna's early education laid a strong foundation for her future achievements. She attended St.Bede's Primary School and graduated from Aquinas College High School. Though she briefly attended the College of the Bahamas (COB), her passion for the workforce soon led her to start her professional journey. She gained invaluable experience working with esteemed organizations such as Obsessions, Versace, Atlantis Hotel, and Fox Group of Companies.

In May 2009, Adrianna embarked on her remarkable career at Island Luck. Through her dedication and strategic vision, she swiftly rose to the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO) and
shareholder by 2022. Under her leadership, Island Luck experienced unprecedented growth, expanding from 45 to over 1,200 employees. Adrianna implemented standard operating procedures and guided company policies, leading to the company's remarkable success.

Adrianna's entrepreneurial spirit led her to launch her mobile top-up company, Baha Pay. In addition to her role at Island Luck, she is also the Vice President of the Fox Group of Companies.
Her visionary leadership continues to shape these enterprises, contributing to their ongoing success. Adrianna initiated the 'Women Entrepreneurship Epidose' initiative under the Fox
Foundation in 2024, with the aim of empowering women in the Bahamas through entrepreneurship. She oversees the Foundation's daily operations, ensuring the achievement of its
mission of empowerment and community upliftment.

Adrianna's commitment to continuous learning is evident through her certifications in Accounting, Operations, and Bookkeeping from Atlantic Technical College (2017-2018) and her certification in Artificial Intelligence: Business Strategies and Applications from Berkeley ExecEd. Beyond her professional achievements, Adrianna is a devoted mother and an inspiring role model in the Bahamas.

Her journey from entry-level positions to top executive roles and philanthropy showcases her resilience, strategic thinking, and dedication to making a positive impact. Adrianna Fox continues to lead and innovate, embodying the spirit of a true visionary leader.

Matthew Aubry is a dedicated advocate for social justice and the development of the not-for-profit sector, with over three decades of experience across The Bahamas, the United States, Canada, India, Jordan, Bangladesh, and the United Arab Emirates. As Executive Director of the Organization for Responsible Governance (ORG) in The Bahamas, he leads initiatives that engage citizens, civil society, and the private sector in advancing accountable governance and expanding social and economic opportunities.

Matthew’s global career has focused on training leaders, shaping policy, and driving sustainable impact. Prior to his work at ORG, he held senior leadership roles at respected international organizations such as YAI Network and Action Against Hunger, and led transformative community development as Director of Community Relations and Partnerships at Baha Mar, where he managed the BELIEVE Foundation.

He has served as a consultant for numerous nonprofit and multilateral organizations and has played a key role in national initiatives, including the National Skills Development Committee and the OAS Anti-Corruption Hub, reinforcing his reputation as a respected voice in nonprofit leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and advocacy for democratic accountability.

Edison L. Sumner is a distinguished Bahamian business leader with a substantial footprint in the private sector. He is a Commercial Diplomat and is the Founder and Principal of Sumner Strategic Partners. He is also the former Chief Executive Officer and Director of The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers' Confederation (BCCEC). In this role, he has been instrumental in fostering economic growth and advocating for business interests in The Bahamas.

With a strong background in commercial diplomacy, Sumner is known for his ability to navigate complex business environments and build international business relationships. His career is marked by a series of executive roles that highlight his expertise in leadership, strategic planning, and economic development.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sumner is actively involved in various community and economic development projects, and serves as the current President of the Bahamas Red Cross Society. He has been a key figure in promoting business-friendly policies and creating opportunities for local businesses to thrive. His contributions to the business community in The Bahamas have earned him respect and recognition both locally and internationally. He also serves as the Honorary Consul for The Republic of Namibia in The Bahamas.

Edison L. Sumner's professional journey is characterized by a blend of entrepreneurship, leadership, and a steadfast dedication to economic development. He continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the business landscape of The Bahamas, driving growth, and fostering innovation.

Marietta Carrington is a seasoned business manager with more than three decades of experience in a wide range of areas that include:- Strategic planning, marketing management, business development, key account management, special events and trade show management. She joined Verdun House and Marina House – projects of The Substance Abuse Foundation (The SAF) in 2013 after a long and successful career with the professional services firm of Ernst & Young and shorter stints in banking and construction sectors.

Marietta joined Verdun first as Director – HR, Communication and Client Development where she spearheaded the development of a 21^st century HR function and got Verdun House approved by the TVET Council as a Second Chance Institution and Assessment Centre for six regional CVQ programmes.  She was also responsible for assisting the Clinical team prepare clients for skills development and job placements.  She was approved by the Board and was appointed CEO April 1, 2017.

Over this period, she has spent much time strengthening her knowledge of and gaining valuable experience in the addiction and mental health field.  She has participated in an extensive, specialized Professional In Residence Programme at the Hazelden Betty Ford campus in Minnesota – the most respected treatment centre and addiction graduate school in the USA.  She has also undergone a similar programme at Action on Addiction, one of the UK’s most respected addiction treatment centres.  Each year she participates in continuing education training and workshops that address overall health and wellness and community engagement.  As a member of the Executive Team, Marietta has many opportunities to represent civic society.  These opportunities have strengthened her resolve to destigmatized mental health and addiction and change the thinking to ensure that the individuals who suffer from this disease of the brain deserve the same level of care, compassion and treatment that those who suffer challenges of the body do.  

She has successfully completed certifications in Addiction and Co-occurring Disorders; Ethics in Counselling from Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School in the USA; and Fundamentals of Addiction from the University of the West Indies, Open Campus in Trinidad & Tobago. She has also participated in a number of workshops and seminars on mental health and addiction. She holds a B.Sc. Marketing (Hons.), University of Phoenix and a Postgraduate Executive Diploma in Management (HR), University of the West Indies.  She was awarded the Fellow Certified Administrative Manager (FCAM) with the Canadian Institute of Certified Administrative Managers.

A media practitioner of more than two decades who is driven by quality and excellence.

His life that has been people-centred having worked for14 years in Banking where he saw people achieve their dreams and 26 years as a broadcaster where he has been the trusted News Anchor of many years and Host of Mornin’ Barbados, proudly showcasing many young, interesting entrepreneurs to audiences.

He continues to serve on the judging panel of the Junior Minister of Tourism initiative of the Tourism Authority for the past 6 years.

Mrs. Denise Nurse is a qualified Social Worker and worked with the Government of Barbados’ Child Care Board from 1985, first as a Child Care Officer, then as a Senior Child Care Officer, prior to her appointment as the Deputy Director in 2002, with direct responsibility for supervising the Board’s technical social work staff. During this period, she also acted in the post of Director - Child Care Board on numerous occasions. Mrs. Nurse retired from her post as Deputy Director - Child Care Board in January 2021.

Mrs. Nurse was educated at the Springer Memorial Secondary School and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work (Hons.) from the University of the West Indies - Mona in 1983.

She was awarded a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship in 1992, which allowed her to pursue post-graduate studies in Drug Abuse Programme Planning at The Johns Hopkins University, USA. While there she studied substance abuse policy, research, prevention and treatment in order to be able to develop and operate similar programmes in Barbados. Her area of interest was the relationship between childhood abuse and drug addiction and the design and implementation of programmes to prevent these. During this period, she worked with Baltimore County Office of Substance Abuse, Maryland Center for Substance Abuse Prevention and the Georgia Center for Disease Control to gain knowledge of the content, organization and management of effective prevention programmes for implementation on her return to Barbados. Mrs. Nurse also developed a proposal for the development of a peer-counselling programme for school-aged children, which was adjudged by The Johns Hopkins’ School of Hygiene and Public Health as being not only visionary, but pragmatic and feasible.

In 1998, Mrs. Nurse was the recipient of an Organization of American States Scholarship to undertake a Master of Science Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Social Administration and Planning, at Columbia University, USA. During this programme, she interned at two organisations, each for a period of twelve months. At Weston United, Denise worked with New York City’s most vulnerable residents, including those struggling with homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse. During her second year of study, Mrs. Nurse had a year-long internship with the United Nations NGO Committee on Ageing at UN Headquarters in New York where she worked closely with country representatives to prepare the framework for raising world awareness of the opportunities and challenges of global ageing, as the committee prepared for the Second World Assembly on Ageing, which was held in 2002 in Madrid.

For over 20 years, Mrs. Nurse has conducted counselling and sensitization sessions relative to the services provided by the Child Care Board at Erdiston Teachers’ Training College for teachers at the primary and secondary levels as well as instructors from Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute and the Barbados National Training Board. Additionally, Denise has worked with several service organizations at the broader community level sitting on discussion panels and giving presentations to various NGOs, which allowed her to meet and interact with a wide cross-section of the Barbadian public. This interaction proved integral for the development of the now 30-year old Child Care Board ‘Hamper Project’ which was conceptualised and executed by Mrs. Nurse, who worked closely with the members of the Barbadian private sector in order to provide resources for less-fortunate clients and families in the community.

In January 2017, in her capacity as Deputy Director, Mrs. Nurse acted as technical advisor within the delegation which represented the Government of Barbados before the UN General Assembly to report on Barbados’ implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child at the 74th Session of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in Geneva, Switzerland.

Mrs. Nurse also provides her professional expertise to the University of the West Indies - Cave Hill as a member of the review panel which periodically evaluates the structure and learning outcomes to be derived from both the undergraduate and post-graduate social work degree programmes.

Mrs. Nurse has been a member of the Anglican Church for the past sixty-five years. She is currently the Synod Representative for the St. Jude Church. At this time, she is also one of the laity representatives on the Family Life Commission for the Barbados Anglican Diocese at the Provincial Synod for the West Indies. Mrs. Nurse is a Board Member of PAREDOS. Mrs. Nurse is married to Lindell and they are the parents of two daughters, Nesha and Natalya. Her interest is in the area of child rights and she shares the view that all children should be treated equally and be afforded the opportunity to reach his/her full potential.

Ashley Lashley is an action-doer and a change-maker. A UNICEF Youth Advocate, CARICOM Youth Ambassador, and Miss World Barbados, she has dedicated her life to tackling social and environmental challenges. From founding "Schools Against Non-Communicable Diseases" at just 16 to launching the HEY Campaign, which has mobilized over 500 climate activists globally, Ashley has transformed advocacy into tangible impact. Through the Ashley Lashley Foundation, she has empowered thousands of young people, granting over $30,000 to youth-led initiatives.

She has graced global platforms, from the United Nations General Assembly to Forbes and BBC, amplifying youth voices on climate and health. Not only did she found the SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit, but she also co-organized it recently in her role as CARICOM Youth Ambassador. Additionally, Ashley made history by launching the 1st ever CARICOM Badge for Brownies and Girl Guides, a groundbreaking initiative that promotes Caribbean citizenship, cultural appreciation, and youth advocacy.

Whether leading the Barbados Youth Climate Action Summit, supporting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) communities, or empowering young girls through the CARICOM Badge, Ashley’s mission is clear: no obstacle is greater than the cause. Her leadership is not just inspiring—it is transformative, proving that young leaders can reshape the world with action, purpose, and relentless dedication.

Pete Smith is a born and raised BVIslander and he spent his first career working in accounting and operations management for three different departments within the Ministry of Education over his 25 years of public service. He has been retired from public service for almost six years and is the President of the Virgin Islands Retired Public Officers Association. He is an ordained Elder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He is also a husband of 26 years, a father of three, an entrepreneur, singer, musician and eternal optimist. In 2020, as the global pandemic set in, he offered a ray of hope amidst the bombardment of negative COVID-19 news with his first daily, then weekly Facebook LIVE named “Gratitude Talks.” In total he covered 80 episodes in 1 year which are all still available on his Facebook page.

Pete’s love for personal development has mated perfectly with his journey as a part-time network marketing professional over the past 20 years. During this time, he has been one of only two persons in the BVI to achieve the rank of Founders Platinum with this global billion dollar company.  Currently, he is launching two new businesses. One is a local watersports company and the other is the regional distributorship for European brand, Red Shark Water Bikes.

Pete is an occasional motivational speaker and master of ceremonies for various public and private entities including local schools, corporations, sporting events, corporate events and, in particular, the Government’s Senior Citizens Programme. 

Bria A. Smith is a dynamic Public Relations and Media Communications Specialist with a deep passion for storytelling, cultural preservation, and creative expression. A proud Virgin Islander, she has led strategic communications across higher education, government, and politics, while also making her mark in speechwriting, voice acting, and hosting.
An honours graduate with degrees in Humanities, Media & Communication Studies and History, Bria blends academic excellence with purpose-driven advocacy—championing the culture and history of the Virgin Islands both locally and globally, including on the Miss Universe stage in 2019.

Beyond her professional life, Bria is active in community leadership as a former member of the Virgin Islands Youth Parliament and the OECS Youth Advisory Network, the Secretary-General of the Virgin Islands Softball-Baseball Association, interim Vice President of the BVI Reading Council, and a planning member of the BVI Lit Fest. She is also a national softball player, entrepreneur, and passionate adventurer.

Bria’s multifaceted journey reflects her dedication to excellence, service, and the stories that shape identity.

Geraldine Ritter-Freeman is the Chief of Staff in the Governor’s Office where she is currently serving as a Chief Advisor to the Governor of the Virgin Islands and oversees the management of the Office. She has also served as the Ag. Chief Immigration Officer and the Chief Information Officer for the Virgin Islands Government and as Director of Communication at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and Office Manager for the BVI London Office in the U.K. 

Mrs. Ritter-Freeman also worked in the field of communication for 15 years as a news reporter in the U.S. Virgin Islands and as News Director and Information Officer in the British Virgin Islands.

She has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Norfolk State University and a Master’s degree in Public Sector Management from the University of the West Indies.  She is also a minister of the Gospel who enjoys serving her community and ministering to anyone who is available to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

In her spare time, she enjoys the performing arts, modelling and motivational speaking and has been privileged to speak to teenage girls and women in the region on many occasions inspiring them to achieve their goals and to believe in themselves.  She is the mother of two girls Adorya and Olivia and she is married to Mr. Edward Freeman.

Reverend Christine Gooden-Benguche was trained as a teacher at Moneague Teachers’ College, and received Diploma in Teaching. She has completed a Diploma in Ministry at the United Theological College of the West Indies, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology and a Master’s Degree in Mission Studies. She served as Minister of Religion in the following places Spanish Town, May Pen, Ocho Rios, Western St. Andrew, Grateful Hill, Annotto Bay & Mt. Fletcher in the hills of St. Andrew. 
 

Guyana District

• She served in the Friendship Circuit in Guyana. 

Assignments
•    Rev’d Benguche was the Secretary of the Jamaica Methodist District Conference for 9 years.
•    Ministerial Training Secretary for 7 years.
•    She co-ordinates and serves as host on the Methodists Broadcast - Light For our Path (aired on RJR on Sunday mornings at 5:45 am.)

      Television Programme: Methodist Voices in Word and Song and Methodist Connexion (aired on MTM television every Sunday).

Boards of Management
•    Currently Board Chair of the Morant Bay & York Castle High Schools; Member of EXED COMPLEX Board of Management
•    President of the Jamaica Council of Churches
•    Executive member Jamaica Council of Churches
•    Serves on the Executive of the Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches
•    CPNRS-JCDC committee member (Planning National & Religious Services)
•    ChairPerson, CPNRS-JCDC (current)
•    Member of the EEC…. Ecumenical Education Committee
•    Director, Sons of the Father Movement 
•    Served as Board Chair for Primary & Infant; Primary & Junior High Schools
•    Jamaica National Children’s Home Board Member
•    Mentor 
•    Marriage Officer

Chaplaincy /Guidance & Counselling
Her work with schools has included serving as Methodist Chaplain for St. Andrew Prep and Methodist Chaplain for the Shortwood Teacher’s College. She has served with several schools in St. Andrew working with the Guidance & Counselling Department as Counsellor & Mentor.  Sits ON THE executive
She currently serves as voluntary Station Pastor for Area 5 of the Jamaica Constabulary Force and served as Station Pastor for the May Pen Police Station.  

Education Sector
Guidance Counsellor at the following Institutions:
•    Charlemont High School in St. Catherine
•    Ewarton Secondary now High 
•    Vere Technical High School
•    She taught Methodology and Old Testament at the International University of the Caribbean, St. Mary Campus and the Presbyterian College in Guyana.

Awards & Recognition
Bishop Gooden Benguche received recognition for work with children and contributions to both the community and the church.
Recognized by: 
•    The Soroptimist Club of New Kingston for work among children
•    The Kiwanis Club for work with schools and among children
•    St. Andrew Prep for contribution to Chaplaincy Religion
•    Order of Distinction conferred by the government and people of Jamaica October 2022.

In May 2018 she became the first female to lead the Jamaica District in its two hundred and thirty (230) years of Methodist witness in Jamaica. She is currently President of the Jamaica Methodist District.

Bishop the Rev’d Gooden-Benguche is married to Senator Bishop the Rev’d A. Moses Benguche, who now serves as the President of the Belize/Honduras Methodist  District, and they are the parents of 3 .

Bishop Gooden Benguche loves the Lord and is an Ecumenist at heart and believes in the power of God’s word to change the hearts and lives of persons. Guided by the words of one of her favourite hymns  penned by George Matheson,

“Make me a captive Lord, And then I shall be free. 
Force me to render up my sword, and I shall conqueror be.
I sink in life’s alarms, When by myself I stand; 
Imprison me within thine arms, And strong shall be my hand.

My will is not my own, Till Thou hast made it thine; 
If it would reach a Monarch’s throne, It must its crown resign. 
It only stands unbent, Amid the clashing strife; 
When on thy bosom it has leant, And found in thee its life”.

Dr. Mark Nicely is a strong union leader who possesses a combination of essential qualities and skills that enables him to effectively advocate for and represent the interests of union members. He served as Teacher, Guidance Counsellor, Senior Teacher, Principal and as a lecturer at various colleges and universities, making him a seasoned educator with over twenty (20) years of service in the Jamaican Education System.

Dr. Nicely became the 49th President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association where he was a strong advocate for workers’ rights which has positioned him to serve in other notable roles such as Board Chairman of various institutions, and External Examiner for the Jamaica Joint Board of Teacher Education. In his current role, he occupies the post of Secretary General at the Jamaica Teachers’ Association which makes him the Chief Administrator of the only teachers’ union in Jamaica. He also extends his time to civic duties as Justice of the Peace for the parish of Kingston. He is a Director on the Teachers’ Services Commission (TSC), E-Learning Jamaica Company Limited Board and on the National Council on Education (NCE). He is the General Secretary of the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Union (JCTU), and is the Caribbean Union of Teachers’ (CUT) Chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee.

His operational knowledge and practice of psychology, enables him to demonstrate people skills and executes emotional intelligence, in galvanizing harmony among stakeholders. This commendable leader continues to maximize his skills to maintain efficiency and proficiency. As an exemplary Union Leader he is highly organized, manages administrative tasks efficiently
and oversees the implementation of union initiatives. Dr. Nicely is versed in labour laws, industrial relations practices and trends, and the specific challenges faced by workers which facilitates him in making informed decisions and providing valuable guidance.

He remains a patriotic Jamaican who is keen on giving back to the land of his birth and extending his service as a Union Leader across geographical boundaries.
 

Coming soon

Ronald “Boo” Hinkson, a household name in Saint Lucia and one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated jazz musicians, was selected based on his longstanding philanthropic work, particularly in support of youth and the disadvantaged. A multi-tenured board member of the Cultural Development Foundation, Boo is not only an icon of Saint Lucian culture but a national hero—having received the Le Piton Medal (Silver) in 1992 and the Medal of Honour (Gold) in 2004 for his contributions to music and nation-building.

Susanna Gurley, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Tenderoni Foods Inc., is a stalwart of Saint Lucia’s manufacturing sector. With more than 40 years of industry experience, she has consistently championed youth development and corporate social responsibility. Her leadership within the private sector is matched by her quiet but steady support of initiatives that uplift underserved populations.

Angela Musgrove is the Chief Executive Officer of Invest Turks and Caicos. With over 20 years of experience in education, public administration, entrepreneurship, and business development, she brings a wealth of cross-disciplinary expertise to her role. Born and raised in the Turks and Caicos Islands, she blends her passion for social impact with sound business expertise to create a platform for driving organizational impact.  Her leverages her familiarity with corporate governance as well as public administration procedures to harness stakeholder support for executing the organization’s vision and mission. She holds advanced degrees in Economics and Finance, underscoring her strong academic foundation. 

A British Empire Medal recipient in 2013 being recognized for her extraordinary civic services to the Turks and Caicos Islands, Mrs. Musgrove remains committed to the development of her homeland, driven by a profound sense of national pride and fulfillment.
Mrs. Musgrove's professional journey is marked by numerous achievements in both the public and private sectors. She has successfully spearheaded various initiatives aimed at economic development and social upliftment, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of her fellow citizens. Her leadership style is characterized by a deep commitment to ethical practices, transparency, and sustainable development.

As CEO of Invest Turks and Caicos, she plays a pivotal role in promoting the islands as a premier destination for investment, facilitating business opportunities that contribute to the overall growth and development of the region. Her ability to engage and motivate stakeholders has been instrumental in attracting significant investments, which in turn, enhance the economic landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Angela Musgrove's legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her work continues to inspire and drive the nation towards a prosperous future, embodying the true spirit of national development and empowerment.

Ruth Forbes is President and CEO of FortisTCI in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) and is one of the few female CEOs in the Caribbean utility sector. Under her transformational and purpose-driven leadership, FortisTCI is focused on achieving a supportive and equitable regulatory environment to transition to a greener, smarter energy future.

With over 18 years of diverse experience in the utility industry, Mrs. Forbes serves as a director on several corporate boards, including FortisOntario, Fortis Belize Limited, and the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation. In 2024, she was appointed to the Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group of the International Federation of Accountants. She has served for three years as the Governor's Appointed Member of the Public Accounts Committee of the TCI.

Mrs. Forbes holds the ICD. D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors through the University of Toronto and is a Certified Management Accountant and Certified Public Accountant.

She is passionate about youth education and empowering the next generation of leaders. A devout philanthropist, in 2017, she founded Jewels Ablaze, an organization that supports girls and women.