The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society (ABRCS) hosted its 2024 Volunteer Recognition and Awards Ceremony on February 22, 2025, at Dutchman’s Bay, celebrating the remarkable service and dedication of volunteers, partners, and humanitarian champions.
Under the theme “Shining Stars of Service: Honouring Dedication and Impact”, the event recognized outstanding contributions made in 2024, a year marked by significant humanitarian efforts, disaster response, and community resilience-building initiatives.
The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, who serves as Patron of the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society. In his congratulatory remarks, His Excellency applauded the dedication, resilience, and compassion of the Red Cross volunteers, emphasizing their invaluable role in providing emergency relief, first aid training, and disaster preparedness. He underscored the importance of humanitarian service in Antigua and Barbuda and called for continued support and collaboration to sustain the organization’s impact.
A key highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Governor General’s Award to Dr. José Humphreys, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society. Dr Humphreys was recognized for his transformational leadership, which has significantly enhanced the accountability, efficiency, and visibility of the Red Cross at both national and regional levels.
A distinguished medical professional, he has made significant contributions in disaster risk management and mental health support, ensuring that the Red Cross remains at the forefront of emergency response and community resilience in Antigua and Barbuda. Dr. Humphreys was also presented with the Governor General’s Faithful and Meritorious Service Cross by His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams.
Several volunteers, youth leaders, and corporate partners were honoured for their outstanding service throughout 2024, including:
Volunteer Service Awards – Recognizing individuals who contributed 90 or more hours of service in 2024, including Sheanna Henry, Julion Daniel, Zachariah Roberts, Malik Vincent, Aliah Jenkins, Era Birk, and Faye Joseph.
Special Volunteer Service Awards – Presented to:
Mrs. Otesia Melville-Rowe – For dedication and leadership in climate change resilience.
Mr. Tyrone Peters – For outstanding service in financial management and sustainability.
Mrs. Juliet Hazlewood – For outstanding service towards National Society Development.
Mr. Julien Kentish – For dedication towards youth development and diplomacy.
Most Outstanding Youth Volunteer – Awarded to Ms. Sheanna Henry for her exceptional commitment and leadership.
Most Outstanding Adult Volunteer & Pinnacle Performer Award – Awarded to Mr. Julion Daniel.
First Responders Award – Awarded to Ms. Victoria Charlton and Mr. Jameel Ambrose for their dedicated and impactful service during emergencies, particularly in first aid, disaster response, and ambulance operations.
President’s Award – Presented to Mr. Zachariah Roberts.
ABRCS Impact Award – Presented to Mr. Malik Vincent for his significant influence within the community.
The Henry Dunant Award for Lifelong Service – The highest Red Cross honour, presented to Mrs. Sherilyn Anthony (“Mrs. A”) for over 50 years of dedicated humanitarian service.
The Mill Reef Fund, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Antigua and Barbuda Fire Department, and other corporate and community partners were acknowledged for their critical support in advancing the Red Cross mission in disaster relief, emergency preparedness, and community outreach programmes.
Special business recognition was given to Ivan George Electrical Services, David Richardson Air-conditioning Services, Raeburns Generator Service, and Glenn Weeks of Bestechs Ltd. A Plaque of Appreciation was also presented to Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Williams for their unwavering support of the ABRCS.
The ceremony featured virtual addresses from the President of the Grenada Red Cross and the President of the International Federation of the Red Cross, Mrs. Kate Forbes. The Grenada Red Cross President commended the ABRCS and the awardees, reminding them that their work is part of a larger global movement to alleviate human suffering and promote human dignity.
Mrs. Forbes reinforced the importance of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, describing it as a beacon of hope, and stating, “Your dedication, your compassion, and your tireless service to your communities make a profound difference every day. In times of crisis, in moments of uncertainty, your commitment to humanity shines brighter than ever.”
In his remarks, His Excellency, Sir Rodney Williams expressed his congratulations to all the volunteers and his deep appreciation for the pivotal role the ABRCS plays in ensuring that the most vulnerable in the community are supported.
ABRCS President, Dr. J. Humphreys, also extended his profound appreciation and heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees. He emphasized that their exceptional dedication and commitment to humanitarian service have made a profound impact and continue to inspire others in the community. He reminded volunteers that their contributions are valued and essential in creating a more compassionate world.
