🌿 DoE Director Gina Ebanks-Petrie receives royal recognition
Honored for her services to the environment and community in the Cayman Islands
Gina Ebanks-Petrie, the director of the Department of Environment (DoE), has been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours List. After 40 years of dedicated work towards protecting the Cayman Islands' natural resources amidst constant development, her efforts have finally been recognized. Despite facing criticism and opposition, Ebanks-Petrie's relentless commitment to the environment and the community has earned her this prestigious honor. 🏅
Alongside Ebanks-Petrie, two local individuals were awarded an OBE: Robert James Berry, director of the Financial Reporting Authority, for his services to the UK sanctions regime and global financial standards in the Cayman Islands, and Moses Kirkconnell MP for his services to the Caymanian people, the tourism industry, and District Administration. Additionally, Sharon Martin, a retired teacher, received an MBE for her services to education and the community, while Valerie Wood, a horticulture volunteer at the Queen Elizabeth II Royal Botanic Park, was awarded the British Empire Medal for her community services. 🎖️
Governor Jane Owen also announced two King’s Certificate and Badge of Honour awardees: Melissa Martinez-Ebanks for her services to the Cayman Islands Postal Service and Morgan DaCosta for his voluntary service and contribution to cultural preservation and development. These honors are awarded by governors in some British Overseas Territories to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their territory. 📜
