CIBC Caribbean Honours 2025 Regional Unsung Heroes
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.
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.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/10/26/cibc-caribbean-honours-2025-regional-unsung-heroes. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Browne Places Youth and Women’s Opportunities at Centre of Commonwealth Agenda
Scholarships, research partnerships and digital access feature in the Prime Minister’s call for inclusive growth.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Greenaway to Represent Antigua and Barbuda on UN Governance Panel in Baku
The Permanent Secretary will discuss partnerships to improve public service delivery at the UN Governance Innovation Summit.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
OPINION: From Commonwealth connections to economic opportunity: Expanding
Commonwealth, Afreximbank and ITC leaders call for stronger transport links, accessible finance and simpler payments to unlock Africa–Caribbean trade.
By Editorial Staff
Royal Visit Ends After Week of Independence Celebrations and Commonwealth Engagements
King Charles III and Queen Camilla departed Antigua and Barbuda this morning following national, community and diplomatic events.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (2)
Apex Jones October 26, 2025, 9:41 AM
Informed citizen October 26, 2025, 6:59 PM