The Cayman Islands Local Honourees and Emerging Honouree have been announced ahead of tomorrow’s ceremony celebrating diving excellence.
The 2025 International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame (ISDHF) Induction Ceremony will also feature renowned dive industry leader Margo Peyton as the keynote speaker.
This year’s Local Honourees are Jason Belport, Peter Hillenbrand, Courtney Platt and Michael Schouten.
They have helped to establish Cayman’s reputation as a premier diving destination, and are dedicated to conserving its marine ecosystems, a press release said on 17 September.
Ragime Powery, a Caymanian who is a leader in the local dive community, has been selected as this year’s Emerging Honouree.
The award, which was introduced in 2017, recognises young and upcoming Caymanians making significant contributions to the industry.
Deputy Premier Gary Rutty, who is also tourism minister, said: “The diving and water sports industry paved the way for the tourism industry in the Cayman Islands and continues to play a significant role.
“What makes the Cayman Islands unique is our people, and we have some of the best in the industry; as exemplified by the contributions of Jason Belport, Peter Hillenbrand, Courtney Platt, Michael Schouten and Ragime Powery.
“I congratulate them all for their outstanding achievements and I encourage the community to show their support for our 2025 Local Honourees at the ISDHF Induction Ceremony.”
Keynot speaker Margo Peyton, a trailblazer in dive travel and youth education, is a 2024 ISDHF Inductee and a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame.
She is widely recognised for pioneering family and youth diving programmes worldwide, creating safe, conservation-minded pathways for new generations to explore and protecting the oceans
Through her leadership, thousands of divers have been introduced to underwater adventure, marine stewardship, and community service initiatives that strengthen the global dive industry.
William Cline, executive director of the ISDHF, said: “We are deeply honoured to welcome Margo Peyton as our keynote speaker as we celebrate an all-women induction class this year.
“Margo’s lifelong commitment to inclusivity, mentorship, and ocean advocacy embodies the very spirit of the Hall of Fame.
“Her vision has opened doors for families and young divers around the world, and her message will inspire our industry to keep pushing forward – together.”
The ISDHF Induction Ceremony and Gala Dinner will take place at Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman on 20 September.
The public is invited and encouraged to attend to support the local and international diving community. Tickets can be purchased at isdhf.com
