Barbadians have been invited to nominate upstanding members of their community for the 2026 edition of the CIBC Unsung heroes competition.
Nominations officially opened yesterday for the Unsung Heroes campaign observed across ten CIBC territories in the region, an initiative recognising individuals who performed acts of heroism, bravery or extraordinary acts of kindness within the last 12 months.
Speaking during yesterday’s launch held at the Michael Mansour building in Warrens, St Michael, country manager Victor Boyce encouraged Barbadians to nominated anyone in their community doing exceptional work in service to others.
“It is fair to say that often what our heroes are doing is anything but a drop. It is usually something that makes a vast difference in the lives of many, and this is what we are looking for. Starting today in Barbados, someone who is making a difference in someone’s life, or in many people’s lives . . . .”
Winners
Last year’s winners included Carla Daniel, Roseanna Tudor and George Francis. Daniel, who was unable to attend the launch, was recognised last year for her environmental advocacy, and noted efforts to save sea turtles.
An emotional Roseanna Tudor noted that being recognised in 2025 was unexpected as she usually avoided awards or the spotlight, choosing instead to let her work in advocacy be at the forefront of all she does.
“You’ve got to keep creating that awareness . . . . So I think this CIBC unsung heroes award really made me stop and recognise that I have to value myself as well for the input and impact I’ve made,” she said.
Francis similarly expressed that his community work associated with the arts and youth academia was a service he did out of habit and a belief that children deserved a better chance.
He praised CIBC for the recognition he received through the initiative, which expanded the reach to those he wished to assist.
This year’s local CIBC Caribbean Unsung Hero will receive a prize of $10 000, while the runner up will receive $5 000. At the regional level, the CIBC Caribbean Regional Unsung Hero will receive US$10 000 and the first runner up will US$7 000 and the second runner-up US$5 000.
This year there will also be an incentive award of $1 000 which will be presented to the person who nominates the regional winner.
The campaign will run until July. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and will be announced in August.
(JRN)
