Her Excellency The Most Honourable Dame Sandra Prunella Mason, Freedom of Barbados, Dame Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Dame of St. Andrew, Senior Counsel, Doctor of Laws, President of Barbados, has consented to the announcement of National Honours on the occasion of the We Gatherin’ 2025 National Celebrations. 

Awards of National Honours for We Gatherin’ 2025

Pride of Barbados

‘A person who is a citizen of Barbados or is entitled to be registered as a citizen of Barbados; or is a permanent resident of Barbados and through sacrifice, diligence and dedication to service has made an outstanding contribution to community life in a parish in Barbados or to the improvement of economic and social conditions in a parish in Barbados.’

(Number of awards: Ten (10) persons who reside in the parish of St. Joseph and One (1) person who resided in the parish of St. Joseph.)

Local Awardees 

• Mr. Ryan Renaldo Brathwaite 

A man of faith and selfless service, for his upliftment of the parish of St. Joseph through community restoration, youth and elderly outreach, and his unwavering support for education, sports and culture. His work at Hillview Centre, Edgecliff Church, and St. Joseph Primary exemplifies his outstanding dedication and integrity, making him a beacon of hope and a model citizen.

• Mr. Cleophas Henry Gamble 

From humble beginnings he has created a legacy of service and entrepreneurship in St. Joseph. Through his garage, car rental, mentorship, and charitable acts, he has empowered others and improved lives and livelihoods within his community. His selfless dedication, especially in times of need, reflects a life of purpose, compassion, and unwavering commitment to community development.

• Pastor Albert Arrindal Cecil Gill

Affectionately known as Brother for his longstanding service to the St. Joseph community for over fifty years with humility, wisdom, and compassion. As a spiritual guide, counsellor, and mentor, he has selflessly inspired generations through quiet acts of service, steadfast leadership at Airy Hill Gospel Hall, and unwavering dedication to nurturing and supporting others especially the youth.

• Mr. Victor Trevor Sylvestor Grant 

For his dedication to improving community life through education and volunteerism. Though not formally assigned to a primary school in St. Joseph, he selflessly tutored many local children in the parish and prepared them for examination.  For his unswerving commitment as an avid agriculturist and active community member, empowering youth, caring for the elderly, supporting local events, and generously sharing knowledge and advice.

• Mrs. Ava Yvette Griffith

For her volunteerism and yeoman service to her community as a retired nurse and midwife serving with unwavering compassion and skill. A beloved mentor and caregiver, for her outstanding support through health education, nursing instruction and emergency response, “Auntie Ava” exemplifies selfless service and is known as one of the first persons at the scene of the Joe’s River mass casualty, rendering assistance to those in need. 

• Mr. Caleb Haldane Hinkson

For his unwavering and true community spirit through tireless, hands-on service. For his philanthropy from painting and power washing homes to repairing roofs after hurricanes and ensuring others receive proper healthcare. His dedication knows no bounds, he always put others first as he undertakes quiet acts of kindness and compassion that have profoundly improved lives and strengthened community bonds in his parish.

• Mr. Harold Wendell Hinkson 

For his outstanding commitment to the enrichment of St. Joseph through his contributions to the development of sports, historical preservation, and charitable giving. A former cricketer turned administrator, he fostered community spirit and camaraderie through sporting competitions in the parish. Known as the resident historian he is a repository of local knowledge and traditions, his quiet generosity and passion for heritage and youth advancement continue to inspire.

• Mr. Ronald St. Clair Mayers

As a retired lifeguard and employee of the National Conservation Commission, for his dedication to safeguarding the beaches of Bathsheba and Barclays Park, local seabathers and visitors alike. In retirement, for his selfless service to maintaining public spaces in pristine condition, to caring for the elderly, and preserving the church graveyard. His quiet dedication, community spirit, and unwavering commitment to cleanliness and care reflect a life of true service.

• Mr. Ethelbert Alonza Maynard

For decades of unstinting service as a creative to uplift and empower St. Joseph communities. For his philanthropy and outstanding contributions as a gifted designer, who has generously provided uniforms and garments—free of cost—for students, athletes, and Parish Ambassadors. Known for his compassion and steadfast commitment to assisting the less fortunate, his quiet acts of service continue to make a positive lasting impact parish-wide.

• Ms. Velma Celeste Stoute

For her significant contributions to the socio-economic development of St. Joseph. As a proprietor of Velma’s Place in Bragg’s Hill she has made significant contribution the tourism and food and beverage industries and enriched her parish through her culinary excellence and warm hospitality. For over two decades, she has championed authentic Bajan cuisine, attracting locals and tourists alike. Her dedication to preserving cultural traditions and supporting community life has made her a beloved figure and a pillar of the parish’s identity.

Diaspora Awardees

• Mrs. Sandra Taitt-Eaddy

For her years of dedicated service championing the cultural preservation and promoting St. Joseph through her dynamic virtual platform. Her tireless work and charitable outreach in the areas of housing and the provision of water have strengthened community ties, supported local tourism and improved the socio-economic circumstances of residents. Through her advocacy for heritage and her concerted efforts she has inspired pride, unity, and global awareness of the people, history, and natural beauty of the parish. (PR/GIS)