Dominicans of Distinction

Thea LaFond-Gadson. Annette Bates. Nigel Francis. Sherile Rolle. Albert Simeon. Dr. Cyril Robinson. You will hear these names when the President of Dominica, Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, pins awards onto the chests of several notable Dominicans on Sunday. There will be many others. In 2023, for example, the government of Dominica gave more than

In celebration of the 46th anniversary of Dominica's independence, the government will honour exemplary nationals with annual awards recognising their contributions to society. Scheduled for November 3, 2024, this prestigious ceremony underscores the government's commitment to acknowledging outstanding service and achievements across various sectors, including community service, culture, sports, and professional excellence.

As the government's official website outlines, these national awards are granted in several categories. Each award is selected based on criteria assessing impact, dedication, and years of service. Among the categories are the Dominica Award of Honour (DAH), the Sisserou Award of Honour, the Meritorious Service Award, and the Services Medal of Honour, each representing different contribution levels and societal impact.

This year's celebrated recipients are Dominica's Olympian, Thea Lafond-Gadson, who will receive the Dominica Award of Honour (DAH), the nation's highest award. This award is among several gifts the government bestowed on Lafond-Gadson following her historic gold medal win at the Paris Olympics. Lafond-Gadson, who represented Dominica at the 2024 Olympics and brought pride to the nation, joins an esteemed list of past DAH recipients. Notable individuals previously awarded the DAH include cultural ambassador the late Alwin Bully, historian Dr Lennox Honychurch and the late Director of the Pan American Health Organization Dr Carissa Etienne, all of whom have left a significant mark on Dominica's heritage and global presence. All presidents of Dominica receive the DAH. According to the list published on the government website, the Government of Dominica may have issued more than 40 DAH.

Alongside Lafond-Gadson, several other distinguished nationals will be recognised for their contributions to the development of Dominica. Simeon Albert will be honoured for his dedication to community service and woodwork, while Annette Bates is set to receive an award for her longstanding commitment to community service. Nigel Francis, a cultural advocate and media professional, will be recognised for his work promoting Dominican culture. Cherile Rolle will be acknowledged for contributions to the insurance sector and community service. Dr. Cyril Robinson, a dental professional, will be celebrated for advancements in dentistry within Dominica.

The specific awards for Albert, Bates, Francis, Rolle, and Robinson are yet to be disclosed.

Story Update: Government of Dominica Press Release

Eighteen individuals will receive Meritorious Awards Olympic Gold Medalist Thea Lafond-Gadson will receive Dominica's highest award, the Dominica Award of Honour and Dentist, Dr. Cyril Robinson, the Government of the United Kingdom, the Government of Canada and Range Developments will receive the Sisserou Award of Honour.

Cheryl Rolle (Business and Insurance), Simeon Albert (Community Development), Nigel Francis (Education, Culture), Gerald Corbette (Education), Armour Thomas (Community Development), Annette Bates (Community Development, Agriculture), Martin Charles (Diplomacy, Sports), Carol Severin-Abraham (Agriculture) Hudson Challenger (Education) and Catherine Janice Leighton-Armah (Diplomacy) will receive the Meritorious Service Award.

Courtney Challenger (Public Service) and Adelina Destouche (Education) will receive the Long Service Medal and Isaac Andre (Sports) will receive the Services Medal of Honour.

The awards will be presented on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at the Independence Day Observance Ceremony at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium from 5:00 p.m.