Rotarian Monica Ramgeet Receives Rotary International’s Highest Individual Honor

In a proud and historic moment for the Cayman Islands, Past Charter President Monica Ramgeet has been honored with Rotary International’s most prestigious individual accolade—the **Service Above Self Award**. The award was presented to her during the recent Rotary District 7020 Conference on Royal Caribbean’s ’Freedom of the Seas’ by the Rotary International President’s Representative.

The Service Above Self Award is the highest honor Rotary International (RI) can bestow on a member. RI recognizes only 150 Rotarians each year, (from over 1.5 million in 46,000 Clubs around the globe), for outstanding service that exemplifies Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.”  Monica is the **first recipient from the Cayman Islands**, joining an elite group of about ten recipients within Rotary District 7020, which comprises 10 countries in the Caribbean.

“This was such a surprise and such an honor,” said Ramgeet. “To be recognized on this level by Rotary International, and to represent the Cayman Islands in this way, is truly humbling. I’ve been a Rotarian for 30 years, and service has always been my passion.”

The **Service Above Self Award** honors exemplary humanitarian service through Rotary, above and beyond normal volunteer expectations. Past President (PP) Ramgeet has long been known in the Cayman Islands and the District for her tireless dedication to community development, youth programs, and international outreach efforts.  She is the Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club Cayman Islands Sunset and is credited with founding this innovative new club in 2023.

Current President of Rotary Club Cayman Islands Sunset, Patrick Schmid, said “Monica is a hardworking, knowledgeable and highly effective Rotarian! This is not an award issued lightly but rather an International Award to only 150 of the 1.5 million Rotarians worldwide annually. It is the highest award in Rotary and is a prestigious recognition that highlights the incredible contributions of Rotarians who go above and beyond in their service efforts. We should be proud of Monica’s unique and remarkable achievement!”

Rotary International’s recognition of Monica Ramgeet underscores the profound impact of her commitment to service, and serves as an inspiration to Rotarians and community members alike.