Sandra Williams, Anthony Astaphan, Stanley Humphreys, Suzanne Sharp, Karen Joseph and Bernard Warner Named for Independence Honours

Sandra Louise Williams has been appointed Dame Grand Collar of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation, heading a list of six recipients recognised in Antigua and Barbuda’s 2026 Independence National Honours.

The honours were announced during the ceremonial parade at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Sunday, November 1, as the country marked its 45th anniversary of Independence.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended the ceremony, with the King participating in the presentation of honours alongside Governor General Sir Rodney Williams.

The recipients were recognised for service spanning charitable work, regional jurisprudence, cultural development, the advancement of young people, sport and disability rights.

Dame Sandra Louise Williams

Williams received the Dame Grand Collar of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation for exceptional and exemplary service through national and international advocacy, youth leadership, charitable causes and philanthropy.

Her citation highlighted a longstanding commitment to vulnerable people and the development of young people in Antigua and Barbuda.

She has served as the Governor General’s Goodwill Emissary since 2014, alongside charitable and representational work promoting the country internationally.

Her professional background includes senior tourism and marketing roles, including service as Antigua and Barbuda’s Director of Tourism for the United Kingdom and Europe.

The honour means she will now be known as Dame Sandra Williams.

Anthony W. Astaphan

Attorney Anthony W. Astaphan was appointed Grand Cross of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit for distinguished and outstanding contributions to regional and national legal service, governance and public legal education.

His citation recognised a legal career spanning more than four decades, with particular contributions to constitutional and public law in Antigua and Barbuda and across the Eastern Caribbean.

Stanley R. C. Humphreys

Songwriter Stanley R. C. Humphreys received the Grand Cross of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage for distinguished and outstanding contributions to music, culture and national development.

His citation credited him with composing more than 100 songs recorded by King Short Shirt, through a collaboration extending approximately 45 years.

The recognition acknowledged his role in shaping Antigua and Barbuda’s musical identity and his substantial contribution to the country’s calypso tradition.

Suzanne Jennifer Sharp

Suzanne Jennifer Sharp was appointed Grand Officer of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit for distinguished contributions to the guidance, mentorship, development and education of young people.

Her service with the Girl Guides Association of Antigua and Barbuda spans approximately four decades.

As a guide leader, administrator, chief commissioner and mentor, she has helped support the development of generations of girls and young women.

Karen Cynthia Joseph

Netball stalwart Karen Cynthia Joseph was named Grand Officer of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage in recognition of her contributions to sports development, youth mentorship and national representation.

Her involvement in netball spans more than four decades as a player, coach, administrator and mentor.

According to her citation, Joseph represented Antigua and Barbuda at the World Netball Championships in Singapore at just 15, becoming the youngest player at that tournament. She subsequently represented the country in regional and international competitions and also played for the West Indies netball team.

Joseph was overseas on national duty and did not attend Sunday’s presentation.

Bernard Warner

Disability rights advocate Bernard Warner was appointed Officer of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit for outstanding service to persons with disabilities and the advancement of the disability community.

Warner has been involved with the Antigua and Barbuda Association of Persons with Disabilities since 2007 and has served as its president.

His citation highlighted advocacy for stronger legal protections, improved accessibility, employment opportunities and greater participation by persons with disabilities in national life.

It also recognised his involvement in international efforts surrounding the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and subsequent work to advance its principles locally.

Together, the six honours recognised decades of service across fields that have helped shape Antigua and Barbuda’s social, cultural and institutional development.