The prestigious Anthony N Sabga Awards for Caribbean Excellence has unveiled its 2026 laureates, with visual artist Sheena Rose and social advocate Shamelle Rice among five distinguished honorees recognized for their transformative contributions to regional development. Announced during a virtual ceremony streamed from Port of Spain, the awards celebrate exceptional professionals whose work exemplifies the highest standards of excellence across multiple disciplines.
Professor Compton Bourne, Chairman of the Regional Eminent Persons Panel, emphasized the rigorous selection process involving ten eminent Caribbean citizens who evaluated outstanding candidates from Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, and Trinidad and Tobago. The panel’s decisions reflect the program’s commitment to identifying individuals whose work significantly advances Caribbean society.
Now in its 21st year, the awards program has recognized 66 laureates across four categories—Arts and Letters, Entrepreneurship, Public and Civic Contributions, and Science and Technology—distributing over TT$32 million (approximately US$4.7 million) in support. Each 2026 category winner receives TT$500,000 (approximately US$73,500) to further their developmental work.
Sheena Rose, honored in the Arts and Letters category, has gained international recognition for her intellectually rich artistic practice that challenges social hierarchies through painting, murals, and performance art. Her work has been featured in solo exhibitions from London to New York and has garnered coverage in major media outlets including The New York Times and BBC. Beyond her creative practice, Rose dedicates significant time to mentoring emerging artists and has participated in residencies across four continents, strengthening Barbados’ artistic community while building global connections.
Shamelle Rice received recognition in Public and Civic Contributions for her groundbreaking work through Jabez House, a registered charity she founded in 2012 that supports women seeking to transition from sex work to legal employment. The organization provides comprehensive support including vocational training, job placement, mental health services, housing assistance, and basic needs support. Notably, Jabez House has assisted over 1,000 women across the Caribbean region, achieving transition success rates exceeding 50% among this highly stigmatized population. Rice’s academic background in psychology, social work, and gender studies, combined with her strategic partnerships with government and international organizations, has enabled her to create sustainable change for vulnerable women and their families.
The 2026 cohort also includes Jamaican telecommunications entrepreneur Dean Nevers, while the Science and Technology award was jointly presented to Guyana-born American biotech innovator Dr. Niven Narain and Jamaican climate scientist Professor Tannecia Stephenson. The laureates will be formally inducted into the program’s College of Laureates during a gala ceremony scheduled for later this year, where they will share insights into their impactful work strengthening Caribbean societies and enhancing the region’s global presence.