Cooperative Awards Ceremony celebrates volunteerism: Honoring outstanding individuals and cooperatives

On July 5, 2025, the Cooperative Movement held a distinguished awards event at the Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort and Spa, themed “Celebrating Volunteerism.” This ceremony was dedicated to recognizing the remarkable efforts of individuals and cooperatives that have significantly contributed to community development and the principles of cooperation. The occasion highlighted the indomitable spirit of volunteerism and collaborative effort that embody the core values of the cooperative sector.

The event featured a series of awards across different categories, celebrating decades of dedicated service and community engagement.

Recognition in the 10-19 Years (Silver) Category

Honorees in this category included:

– Arlington Burnette, Revillius St. Rose, and Stewart Paris from the Marigot Cooperative Credit Union
– Sonia Williams of the National Cooperative Credit Union
– Jacob Durand and Kimanie Mourillon from St. David’s Fisheries Cooperative
– Jeremie Christophe Maxima and Susanna Julianna Gordon from Belles Farmers Cooperative
– Olujide Obonyo representing St. Marks Fisher Folk and Tourism Cooperative

Distinguished in the 20-39 Years (Gold) Category

Awardees comprised:

– Armour Thomas and Bonti Liverpool of Grandbay Cooperative Credit Union
– Ellsworth Prevost and Gregory Riviere from Marigot Cooperative Credit Union
– Francis Paul and Helen Ambo from West Coast Cooperative Credit Union
– Mervin Alexander of St. Mary’s Cooperative Credit Union
– Murphy Wallace and Ophilia Linton from Central Cooperative Credit Union
– Phillipa Daniel representing St. Peter Fisheries Cooperative

Longstanding Contributions in the 40 Years and Over (Platinum) Category

Recipients included:

– Arthur Francis and Nelson Smith of the Dominica Essential Oils and Spices Cooperative, sponsored by Do It Center, Archipelago Wine and Spirits, the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd, and the Cooperative Division staff
– Baylon Fontaine from Fond St. Jean Fisheries Cooperative, sponsored by the same organizations
– Josephine Dublin, recognized for her enduring dedication, sponsored by the National Cooperative Credit Union, National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd, and Archipelago Wine and Spirits

Special Awards for Outstanding Volunteers

– Dexter Ducreay, sponsored by Digicel Dominica, Triage Health Ltd, the Cooperative Movement of Dominica, and the National Beekeepers Cooperative
– Vernice Bellony, supported by Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort and Spa, Agri Sales and Services, the National Beekeepers Cooperative, Courts Dominica, and the Cooperative Movement of Dominica

Extraordinary Volunteer Recognitions

– Susanna Julianna Gordon, sponsored by Agri Sales and Services, Fort Young Hotel, and National Beekeepers Cooperatives
– Josephine Dublin, sponsored by Courts Dominica Ltd.

Special Recognition

The Christian Union Primary School Multi-Purpose Junior Cooperative was acknowledged for its contributions within the Junior Cooperative category, sponsored by Jays Ltd.

Societies Awarded for Excellence

– National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd: Cooperative Youth and Innovation Award (sponsored by HHV Whitchurch and Co. Ltd., Digicel Dominica)
– National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd: Cooperative Team Award (sponsored by Bloom Box)
– National Cooperative Credit Union Ltd: Cooperative Financial Excellence (sponsored by the Cooperative Movement)
– Marigot Cooperative Credit Union Ltd: Cooperative Partnership and Community Engagement (sponsored by the Cooperative Movement)

Organizers stated that this gathering underscored the critical role cooperatives play in nurturing community spirit and fostering volunteerism, inspiring future generations to participate actively in cooperative initiatives. The event also marked a significant part of activities celebrating the International Year of Cooperatives, emphasizing the importance of volunteerism and cooperation in constructing resilient and vibrant communities.

The ceremony was attended by various officials, including the Honorable Minister of Finance and Minister responsible for Cooperatives, Gretta Roberts, as well as Mrs. Fenella Wenham Sheppard, Parliamentary Representative for Portsmouth and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence. Dr. Vincent Henry, Director of the Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative Studies, also participated in the proceedings.

The Cooperative Movement acknowledged heartfelt appreciation to its sponsors, including the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, various cooperative societies, financial institutions, and private sector partners. Special acknowledgment goes to individuals and organizations who contributed to the success of this event, such as Mr. Dennis C Joseph-Temple Ads, Courts Dominica Ltd, Agri Sales & Services, Jays Bookstore Ltd, Archipelago Wine & Spirits, H.H.V Whitchurch & Co Ltd, Triage Health Ltd, Do it Center, Digicel Dominica, Bloom Box, Fort Young Hotel, and Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort and Spa.

In their statement, the movement also sincerely thanks the awards committee, judging panel, and staff from various government departments who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, stating that their efforts were instrumental in making this event memorable.

In conclusion, the Cooperative Movement of Dominica congratulated all awardees and participants for their unwavering commitment to the principles of cooperation and community service.