Heroes Day - Celebrating Icons of Business & Entrepreneurship

By Christopher Tobutt

Hundreds of people attended National Heroes Day on Monday 27 January to join together in celebrating Icons of Business & Entrepreneurship. Her Excellency the Governor, Jane Owen was there along with the Premier, Deputy Premier, government ministers and Members Of Parliament Honourees were awarded according to three categories:

Legacy Builder  - For laying the groundwork for future economic development while shaping the social and cultural landscape of the Cayman Islands for generations. Individuals in this category founded or opened a new and innovative business in the Cayman Islands before 1970, with those businesses contributing to the local economy, community, or culture for 20 years or longer. These individuals demonstrated leadership in building the foundations of an enduring Caymanian business culture, helping to set standards for future generations

 Modern Visionary – for building successful and enduring enterprises while contributing to shaping the modern business culture of the Cayman Islands. Individuals in this category founded or introduced groundbreaking businesses in the Cayman Islands that have been successful for 20 years or longer, demonstrating resilience and adaptability, responding to changing markets and cultural landscapes.

Innovator of Impact – For creating a business or businesses that have initiated important economic, community, or cultural shifts resulting in a profound positive impact in the Cayman Islands.

In her written message, the Premier, Honourable Juliana O’ Connor – Connolly, JP, MP said:  

“Since its founding over twenty years ago National Heroes Day has grown to become one of the most significant and meaningful observances in our country. Each year, we come together as a nation, united in reverence and pride to reflect on the lives and contributions of those who have shaped our history.

“This year, under the theme, ‘Celebrating the Icons of Business and Entrepreneurship: A Tribute to Caymanian Business Ingenuity, Creativity, Successes, Hard Work, Innovation and Leadership,’ we recognize those who have built and shaped our economic landscape. These individuals and businesses have demonstrated remarkable resilience, creativity and vision, transforming their ideas into thriving enterprises that not only contribute to our economy, but but also inspire future future generations of entrepreneurs. Through their hard work and leadership, they have pave the way, showcasing the best of Caymanian determination and ambition.

During her keynote address, the Premier told everyone that it was God who had prospered the Cayman Islands: “That we today can come together in a united fashion, looking across heroes square…we can come with a sense of confidence that those who will be recognized today are those whose sweat…have allowed us to narrow the dignity gap.

“We will not be like the almost-fallen brown leaf, but we will aspire to be like the shooting palm. Two hundred young students – their true potential has not yet been unveiled – but what we do today – our modus operandi – will help determine whether Caymanians, will spread like the beautiful green vibrant palm leaves, or whether they will just lay, fallen and forgotten, by the wayside.”

In his message, Hon. Dwayne Seymour CCI, JP, MP, Minister for Border Control, Labour & Culture stated:

“To our 2025 Honourees, I wish you continued success in your efforts as innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. You have each left indelible marks on our country’s economic tapestry and you should be exceedingly proud of your achievements.

Each of the awardees, or if they had passed, a family member, came forward to receive their awards from the Premier, or other Members of Parliament and dignitaries.

Photos and Story by Christopher Tobutt. Photos are available by emailing Christopher.tobutt@gmail.com