Tortuga Presents Robert Hamaty Heart of the Community Award at Cayman Heart Foundation’s Heart Heroes and Survivors brunch

Tortuga Rum Company, in proud partnership with the Cayman Heart Foundation (CHF), presented the annual ‘Robert Hamaty Heart of the Community Award’ during the Cayman Heart Foundation’s Heart Heroes and Survivors Brunch held on Saturday, November 15th at Mykonos. The event brought together survivors, supporters, and advocates to raise awareness for heart health and funds for the Cayman Heart Foundation’s ongoing work in the community.

The Robert Hamaty Heart of the Community Award was created to honour the late Captain Robert Hamaty, who with his wife, Carlene, founded Tortuga Rum Company, and whose passion for people and unwavering support for heart health left a lasting mark on the Cayman community. Captain Hamaty was not only a proud “Heart Hero” award recipient but also a heart transplant survivor whose personal journey inspired many and deepened Tortuga’s commitment to cardiovascular awareness and community wellbeing.

“This award is deeply meaningful for all of us at Tortuga.” Eugene Nolan, CEO at Tortuga Rum Company, said. “Robert Hamaty believed that true success was measured not just by business achievements, but by how much you give back to the community that supports you. His own experience as a heart transplant recipient made him a passionate advocate for the Cayman Heart Foundation’s work, and we are proud to continue his legacy through this award.”

This year’s annual Robert Hamaty Heart of the Community Award was presented to Dr. Sukumar Thorenoor Kumaraswamy, a physician, educator, and dedicated community volunteer whose contributions have had a profound impact across the Cayman Islands.

For the past six years, Dr. Sukumar has quietly and tirelessly conducted American Heart Association (AHA) CPR, AED, and First Aid training sessions for individuals across all walks of life—from physicians and nurses to helpers and nannies. His teaching is widely regarded as exemplary, ensuring that everyone who attends his courses leaves confident and prepared to respond in emergencies.

Remarkably, Dr. Sukumar has donated more than 500 hours of his time voluntarily, with all proceeds from his training efforts supporting the Cayman Heart Foundation and its life-saving mission.

“Dr. Sukumar’s dedication has touched countless lives across our islands.” Dr Sara Wakin, spokesperson for the Cayman Heart Foundation, said. “His generosity, compassion, and commitment to sharing lifesaving skills truly embody the spirit of the Heart of the Community Award.”

Accepting the award, Dr. Sukumar shared: “It’s truly an honor to be recognized with the Robert Hamaty Heart of the Community Award. I am deeply grateful to the Cayman Heart Foundation and Tortuga Rum Company.”