Cayman Connection Honours Global Caymanian Excellence at the 2026 Making Waves Awards

By Christopher Tobutt

Caymanians at home and around the world came together on Saturday, 15 August, to celebrate the achievements of Caymanians making a difference across the globe at the annual Cayman Connection Making Waves Awards. Now in its fifth year, the programme recognises Caymanians living overseas who are excelling in their fields, contributing to their communities, and proudly representing the Cayman Islands on the regional and global stage.

Premier Hon. André M. Ebanks shared a special video message commending the awardees for their impact and applauding the strength of Caymanian talent worldwide. While a few winners were able to attend in person, others shared video messages as representatives warmly accepted awards on their behalf.

2026 Making Waves Award Winners

Arts, Culture & Heritage — Grace Byers

Grace Byers lit up the evening with her blend of star power and sincerity. Already known internationally for her television and film roles, Grace has also become a beloved children’s author. Her bestselling book I Am Enough has sold more than a million copies worldwide, inspiring families with messages of confidence, inclusion and self worth. Her creative achievements, advocacy work and global reach made her a natural choice for this year’s Arts, Culture & Heritage Award.

Education — Tiffany Jeremiah

Dedicated educator helping students achieve success in mathematics through strong teaching and encouragement, Tiffany Jeremiah proudly represents the Cayman Islands both at home and abroad. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning from Maranatha Baptist University, she returned home to teach for four years before continuing her career in the United States.

Now teaching at Bay City School in Wisconsin, Tiffany continues to inspire students through her commitment to academic excellence, personal growth and service — carrying Caymanian values into every classroom she leads.

Environment & Sustainability — Connor Childs

Connor Childs is one of those Caymanians whose work feels both global and deeply local. A young environmental leader, he is pursuing a master’s degree in Geography and the Environment at the University of Hawai‘i, focusing on practical solutions for island communities facing climate challenges. Connor has spoken internationally on behalf of small island nations, championing climate action and ocean protection — earning him this year’s Environment & Sustainability Award.

Financial, Legal & Professional Services — Shivonne Mitchell

Shivonne Mitchell is creating stronger workplaces by leading people, improving systems and building positive workplace cultures. She has built a successful career in legal operations with leading international law firms, where she leads teams and helps create more inclusive, collaborative and high performing environments.

A Caymanian professional shaping the culture and operations of some of the United Kingdom’s top firms, Shivonne proudly represents the Cayman Islands through her leadership, professionalism and people first approach — making a meaningful impact in the international legal sector.

Health & Wellness — Dr. Larissa Johnson

A forensic psychologist based in the United Kingdom, Dr. Larissa Johnson works with individuals experiencing complex trauma and conducts psychological assessments for criminal, family and civil courts. She is also the founder of inMind Psychological Services, where she is developing more accessible, trauma informed care and reducing barriers to mental health support. Her blend of clinical expertise, compassion and advocacy made her a powerful and deserving recipient of the Health & Wellness Award.

Inclusion — Amy Watson Rankin

Amy Watson Rankin is dedicated to helping women rediscover their confidence, worth and potential through leadership and mentorship. A senior leader at BNP Paribas, she champions women in leadership and has personally encouraged hundreds of women through mentoring and support at the Joy of Living Rehabilitation Centre.

Inspired by her family’s personal experience with domestic abuse and addiction, Amy uses her own journey to help others overcome barriers, build confidence and recognise their potential. Her impact extends far beyond the workplace, making her a standout recipient of the Inclusion Award.

Sports — Gunnar Studenhofft

Gunnar Studenhofft is taking Caymanian football to the professional stage while inspiring the next generation of athletes. Today he plays professionally for Phoenix Rising FC in Arizona while continuing to proudly represent the Cayman Islands National Football Team.

His achievements, discipline and commitment to elevating Cayman football internationally earned him this year’s Sports Award.

STEM — Lyea Rivers

Lyea Rivers is part of Cayman’s exciting new generation of scientists, and her work is already turning heads. Currently completing her degree in Earth and Environmental Science at Lancaster University, she focuses on the connection between people, animals and the environment — exploring how environmental conditions shape public health. Her research, outreach and passion for inspiring young people made her a standout recipient of the STEM Award.

Tourism, Travel & Hospitality — Enzaghi Bush

Enzaghi Bush is taking Caymanian excellence to the skies through an international career in commercial aviation. Leaving Cayman at just 18 years old to pursue his dream, he built a successful aviation career and now serves as a First Officer with Ryanair, flying passengers across the United Kingdom and Europe.

Enzaghi continues to inspire young Caymanians to dream big and pursue opportunities beyond our shores through hard work, determination and Caymanian pride.

People’s Choice — Karthik Adapa

Karthik Adapa is making history for Cayman gymnastics while opening doors for the athletes who follow. He won six gold medals at the 2025 NatWest International Island Games, securing Cayman’s first ever gymnastics gold medal.

His leadership and support of youth gymnastics, along with his dedication to representing Cayman at major international competitions, have made him a role model for young athletes. His commitment also played a key role in the creation of Apex Gymnastics, giving him the opportunity to continue training in Cayman while helping build new opportunities for future generations.