Honourees Celebrated for Outstanding Contributions at 2024 Governor General’s Awards
Government House in St. John’s was the venue for a grand occasion on December 3, 2024, as His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Her Excellency Lady Williams presented the 2024 Governor General’s Faithful and Meritorious Service Awards. The event honoured six exceptional individuals for their dedication and service across a range of fields, from veterinary medicine to journalism.
The awards, spanning three categories – The Cross, The Gold Medal, and The Silver Medal – highlighted contributions to national development and community welfare. The recipients’ efforts, ranging from cultural preservation to public safety, showcased their unwavering commitment to Antigua and Barbuda.
Dr. Radcliffe Alexander Robins OBE, OM
Award: The Cross for Outstanding Service in Veterinary Medicine, Charitable Work in Animal Welfare, and Community Development
Dr. Radcliffe Robins was celebrated for his lifelong contributions to veterinary medicine and environmental awareness. A distinguished academic and community leader, he has been instrumental in founding organizations such as the Environmental Awareness Group and the Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society. With over three decades of service, Dr. Robins’ work has earned him national and international recognition, including appointments as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and Officer of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (OM).
Joseph Ignatius Martin GCH
Award: The Cross for Outstanding Service in Cultural Preservation and Entrepreneurship
As a cultural stalwart and entrepreneur, Joseph Martin’s contributions include chronicling the nation’s history as an official photographer to the Governor General for over three decades. His business, Photogenesis, has become a cornerstone of Antigua’s creative industry, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs. Martin’s legacy also includes his National Honour as a Grand Cross of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage (GCH) in 2009.
Corporal Shane Williams (#333)
Award: The Cross for Exemplary Service to the Royal Police Force and Meritorious Service to the Governor General’s Goodwill Emissary
Corporal Shane Williams was honoured for his 20 years of dedicated service, including his vital role at Government House. His quick action during a recent health crisis involving Lady Williams underscored his commitment and professionalism. Corporal Williams has served in multiple roles within the Royal Police Force, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to public safety and service.
Vijay Shivkumar Tewani Esquire
Award: The Gold Medal for Outstanding Diplomatic and Community Service
Vijay Tewani, Honorary Consul of India to Antigua and Barbuda, was recognised for fostering bilateral ties between the two nations. His efforts in securing millions in disaster relief and pandemic support have had a profound impact on Antigua and Barbuda. Tewani’s philanthropic initiatives and promotion of cultural diplomacy further cement his status as a pillar of the community.
Award: The Gold Medal for Outstanding Service in the Field of Journalism
Garfield Burford, a seasoned journalist , was lauded for his contributions to regional journalism. Known for his incisive interviews and comprehensive reporting, Burford has trained and mentored many young journalists while receiving numerous accolades, including Jamaica’s Prime Minister’s Youth Award for Journalism.
Everton Howard Cornelius Sr. Esquire
Award: The Gold Medal for Outstanding Performance in Sports
As a trailblazer in athletics, Everton Howard Cornelius Sr. has made significant contributions as both an athlete and sports administrator. A member of Antigua’s first Olympic team, Cornelius has dedicated over 50 years to developing local talent and advancing sports infrastructure, including his work on the YASCO Sports Complex.
In his address, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams praised the honourees, stating, “These awards are a testament to the values of hard work, commitment, and the positive impact each of you has had on the people of Antigua and Barbuda. Your dedication serves as a beacon of inspiration for all.”
Lady Williams also highlighted the importance of service and community engagement, expressing her gratitude to the awardees for their selfless contributions.
The awards ceremony will continue on December 5, 2024, with the presentation of the Halo Hero Humanitarian Awards, recognising individuals like Mitzi Allen and Howard Allen for their contributions to arts and cultural development.
This year’s honourees serve as a reminder of the power of dedication and service in building a stronger, more united Antigua and Barbuda.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
Congratulations to all 6 recipients. You have served and still are serving Antigua and Barbuda well.
Everton Cornelius is a waste.
Comments are closed.