In a heartfelt celebration of selfless service, Dr. Kirk Morgan and Tennielle Campbell-Williamson were honored for their unwavering dedication to community development and nation-building at the CIBC Caribbean Unsung Heroes Awards. The ceremony, held at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in St. Andrew, Jamaica, recognized their extraordinary efforts to uplift and empower others without seeking personal gain.
Dr. Morgan, a senior mathematics lecturer at The University of the West Indies, secured the top award for his 15-year commitment to providing free Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) mathematics classes to underserved communities. His work, initially based at Papine High School and later through the National Housing Trust, has been driven by a profound mission: to use education as a tool for liberation and transformation. ‘I am elated,’ Morgan shared with the Jamaica Observer. ‘This recognition is unfamiliar territory for me, but it motivates me to continue my work.’
Campbell-Williamson, the runner-up, has spent over 17 years as an evangelist, youth mentor, and personal ministries leader, guiding young people through life’s challenges. Her advocacy for mental wellness, gender-based violence prevention, and community healing has left an indelible mark. Beyond her church, she has mentored young boys through the Denbigh Primary football club, instilling values of discipline, resilience, and purpose. ‘I never expected this recognition,’ she said. ‘My focus has always been on impacting lives.’
The awards, which included a total of US$7,500 in prizes, are part of CIBC Caribbean’s initiative to celebrate individuals who quietly but significantly improve the lives of others. Annique Dawkins, Head of Country for CIBC Caribbean Jamaica, emphasized the importance of honoring such contributions: ‘Today, we shine a light on those who remind us of the best of who we are as Jamaicans.’
Despite a lower number of nominations this year, organizers remain optimistic about the program’s future. Renee Whitehorne, Marketing Manager for CIBC Caribbean Jamaica, noted that the initiative, which began in 2003 and resumed this year after a pause, is expected to attract more participants in 2026, especially in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. ‘We anticipate seeing more acts of kindness and nominations,’ she said.
The selection process involved a public call for nominations, reviewed by a panel of judges, including retired Court of Appeal President Justice Seymour Panton. ‘The submissions demonstrated significant community involvement in critical areas,’ Panton remarked. ‘It’s inspiring to see so many individuals making life better for others.’
For both honorees, the recognition serves as a powerful motivator. ‘It made me realize that what I was doing was not in vain,’ Morgan reflected. Campbell-Williamson echoed this sentiment, vowing to continue her impactful work. Their stories stand as a testament to the transformative power of selfless service and the enduring spirit of community upliftment.