Sustainable Cayman Welcomes Dejea Lyons to Executive Committee

Sustainable Cayman is thrilled to announce the appointment of Ms Dejea Lyons to its Executive Committee, marking a new chapter in the organisation’s commitment to intergenerational leadership. 

As the organisation evolves, the Executive Committee is intentionally broadening its leadership to include youth voices at the highest levels, ensuring diverse perspectives shape decision-making and strengthen sustainability initiatives across the Cayman Islands. 

Dejea has distinguished herself through her academic excellence, leadership, and vision for the Cayman Islands’ future. A generational Caymanian, she has expressed that her commitment to environmental protection is deeply personal, rooted in the urgent need to preserve Cayman’s natural heritage amid growing environmental threats. 

Her sustainability advocacy has taken her to international platforms. Dejea has represented the Cayman Islands at COP26, COP28, and COP30, contributing to discussions on climate finance and small-island vulnerabilities. She is a recipient of The Diana Award, serves as one of 16 ambassadors for the Planeteer Alliance (an initiative of the Captain Planet Foundation), and was named 2025 Young Super Hero for Earth. 

Locally, Dejea has grown with Sustainable Cayman through multiple roles, including serving as the 2024 One Planet Summer Ambassador and continuing as a Sustainability Ambassador, mentoring youth and advancing community-led initiatives. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Environment, Politics and Society at University College London, focusing on environmental governance and climate resilience for small islands and developing states. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Dejea to the Executive Committee,” said Dr. Katrina Jurn. “Her leadership, global perspective, and deep connection to Cayman make her an invaluable addition. Dejea brings both experience and international insight, and her commitment to climate resilience aligns strongly with our mission.” 

Sustainable Cayman also announces that Mrs Melanie Carmichael will transition into a new role as Controller, stepping back from the Executive Committee. Melanie will continue to support the organisation in this capacity, and Sustainable Cayman extends its sincere gratitude for the leadership, stability, and strong foundation she has helped build. The Executive Committee now comprises Rita Estavanovich, Roshini Seeram, Katrina Jurn, and Dejea Lyons, blending experience with emerging youth leadership. 

Dejea’s appointment, alongside this transition, underscores Sustainable Cayman’s commitment to strong governance, intergenerational collaboration, and long-term sustainable impact. 

Founded in 2014 and officially recognised as a charitable organisation in 2022, Sustainable Cayman continues to provide practical, community-driven solutions to sustainability challenges, working toward a resilient future for the Cayman Islands. 

For more information, or to support Sustainable Cayman’s youth and conservation initiatives, visit www.sustainablecayman.org.