CIBC Caribbean has named Lucinda “Mini” Smith of the British Virgin Islands as its 2025 Regional Unsung Hero, recognizing her lifelong commitment to service and compassion within her Tortola community.

Smith, known for her generosity and famous homemade coconut bread, has spent decades providing free meals and care to families and individuals facing hardship or illness through her church and personal outreach. She received her award at a ceremony held at Harrison’s Cave, Barbados, surrounded by family, fellow honourees, and regional guests.

Joining her in recognition were Venetta Zakers of St. Kitts and Nevis, founder of Zakes Affinity Causes (ZAC), as first runner-up, and Joshuanette Francis of Antigua and Barbuda, founder of Good Humans 268 Inc., as second runner-up. Both were praised for their work empowering vulnerable groups and promoting social change.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Joshuanette Francis

CIBC Caribbean’s ComTrust Foundation Trustee Olivia Burnett commended the women’s “remarkable compassion and leadership,” noting that their kindness “ripples across the Caribbean.”

This year’s programme relaunched after more than a decade drew 39 nominees from across the region, reaffirming the Caribbean’s deep culture of community, care, and quiet heroism.