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Ten outstanding residents of St. John and one individual who once resided in the parish have been recognised for their contributions to community development.
Resident of Barbados, Her Excellency, the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason, bestowed the Pride of Barbados Award upon the recipients as part of Government’s We Gatherin’ 2025 national celebrations.
Among them are Richard “Uncle Lew” Arthur, Pearson Bellamy, J.P., Neville Bridgeman, Sonia Burgess-Haynes, Dr. Keisha Gustave, Samantha Haynes, J.P., De Andra Howard, Myrtle Husbands, Roland Waithe, Dale Lashley, and Lennox Padmore, who resides overseas.
Member of Parliament Charles Griffith and Director of the We Gatherin’ 2025 Secretariat, Senator John Boyce, were present for the awards ceremony.
Shopkeeper Myrtle Husbands received the award for her invaluable contributions to improving the lives of the disadvantaged, uplifting the vulnerable, and fostering a more caring and cohesive community in Colleton, St. John.
As a humble shopkeeper, she provided food, clothing, and financial support to the elderly and needy, while offering protection and refuge to battered women.
Ms. Husbands says she is pleased to be recognised and is encouraging younger persons in the community to follow suit.
And Pearson Bellamy, a community griot and cultural icon, received the prestigious award for his selfless contributions to documenting the legacy of enslaved ancestors and sugar plantations, and was also proud to be presented with the award.
