The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce celebrated the graduation of 24 participants from the Leadership Cayman Class of 2026 during a special ceremony held on Saturday, 11 July at The Westin Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa Ballroom. The event marked the culmination of a six-month leadership journey designed to deepen participants' understanding of the Cayman Islands while developing informed, connected and community-minded leaders. Throughout the programme, participants engaged in 12 seminar days exploring key aspects of Cayman society, including government, business, healthcare, education, environmental stewardship and community development.
The class also participated in both an opening retreat in Cayman Brac and a mid-year retreat, strengthening relationships and challenging participants to broaden their perspectives on leadership and community engagement. A defining feature of this year's programme was the class community service project, which focused on environmental sustainability and community impact. Working in partnership with the Community Farm in Newlands, participants helped plant seedlings, harvest fresh produce and prepare food donations for members of the community.
Students from Truth For Youth School also took part in the initiative, reinforcing the programme's commitment to service and mentorship. In her remarks during the graduation ceremony, Chamber President Cristina Spratt, a member of the Leadership Cayman Alumni, congratulated the graduates on their achievement and reflected on the importance of leadership grounded in service. "Leadership is not measured by titles or positions. It is measured by service, compassion, collaboration, and a willingness to make a difference," Spratt said.
"The Leadership Cayman Class of 2026 has demonstrated resilience, curiosity, humility, and a genuine desire to make our community stronger." Spratt also noted that the programme extends beyond formal seminars and retreats, highlighting the friendships, professional relationships and support networks formed throughout the year. "Leadership is not a destination reached upon graduation. It is a lifelong commitment to learning, serving, and growing," she said. Leadership Cayman Programmes Coordinator Jada Ramoon praised the class for the enthusiasm and camaraderie they brought to the programme. "Every class brings its own unique energy, but there has been something truly special about the Class of 2026. Your enthusiasm, your willingness to engage, your sense of humour, and the genuine care you have shown for one another have made this journey incredibly rewarding," Ramoon said. Ramoon also recognised the many individuals and organisations whose support contributes to the programme's success.
"This programme continues to succeed because of a community that believes in the power of leadership and understands that investing in people is investing in the future of our Islands," she said. The Chamber acknowledged the continued support of Leadership Cayman's major sponsors—Moore, Wheaton Precious Metals, RBC and AL Thompson's—as well as seminar sponsors, employers, volunteers, alumni, family members and members of the Leadership Cayman Planning Committee, whose contributions help create a transformative experience for participants each year. The Chamber also recognised Leadership Cayman Chairperson Melissa Whorms, Deputy Chair Kimberly McLean and the Planning Committee for their leadership and commitment to the programme's ongoing success. Melissa Whorms said:
“The award that you received today is not just a symbol you have arrived; it is a reminder of the responsibility that you have. Carry it with humility. Carry it with excellence. Carry it with the understanding that leadership is less about the title, and more about the lives that you influence.”
Now entering its sixteenth year, Leadership Cayman continues to develop emerging leaders from across the Cayman Islands, fostering greater awareness of national issues while encouraging collaboration, civic engagement and a lifelong commitment to community service. Graduates now join a growing alumni network whose members contribute across business, government, education, healthcare, the nonprofit sector and numerous other fields. For more information about joining the Leadership Cayman programme for 2027, contact Jada Ramoon on 743-9124 or email jada.ramoon@caymanchamber.ky