Young Caymanians working across a range of industries overseas were recognised at the fifth annual Making Waves Awards.
The awards, organised by Cayman Connection, recognise Caymanians living abroad who have made significant contributions in their respective fields while representing the Cayman Islands internationally.
The winners were announced at a ceremony on Saturday, 15 August at the Harquail Centre in George Town.
Grace Byers won the Arts, Culture and Heritage award, while Lyea Rivers was named the winner in STEM, sponsored by CUC.
Tiffany Jeremiah took the Education award, sponsored by the Ministry of Education & Training, and Amy Watson-Rankin won in the Inclusion category.
In Financial, Legal and Professional Services, sponsored by Maples Group, Shivonne Mitchell took the top honour.
Connor Childs won the Environment and Sustainability award, while Dr Larissa Johnson was named Health and Wellness winner. Both categories were sponsored by the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability.
Gunnar Studenhofft won the Sports award, sponsored by the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage, while Enzaghi Bush took the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality award, sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism & Trade Development.
Adapa, who was also shortlisted in the Sports category, received the most public votes to become the first recipient of the People’s Choice Award. The award was introduced this year, giving members of the public a direct role in recognising one of the finalists. In total, 2,800 votes were cast.
Cayman Connection executive director Ashlea Akinwumi said the fifth anniversary of the awards was a significant milestone for the organisation and highlighted the breadth of talent represented by this year’s winners.
“Year after year, our winners continue to represent the incredible diversity of talent within the Caymanian community, making their mark across a wide range of sectors and industries,” she said in a press release.
The organisation said the achievements of the winners demonstrated the opportunities available to young Caymanians and provided inspiration for the next generation.
The Making Waves Awards were established to showcase the achievements of Caymanians overseas and highlight their contributions across industries including the arts, science, education, professional services, sustainability, health, sport and tourism.
Cayman Connection is a not-for-profit organisation focused on supporting young Caymanians studying and working abroad through resources, community engagement and connections.
