In a distinguished recognition of service to national development, five Grenadian citizens have been honored in King Charles III’s 2026 New Year Honours List for their exceptional contributions across education, culture, fishing, and agriculture sectors.
The London Gazette’s December 30th publication revealed that Beverley Grey received the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her transformative work in education. Simultaneously, James Nicholas and Sandra Thomas were both awarded Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) – Nicholas for his dual contributions to fishing and agriculture, and Thomas for her educational services.
The British Empire Medal (BEM) was conferred upon Irma Cynthia Lewis for agricultural services and Neal Matheson for cultural preservation efforts.
James Nicholas, with over 25 years of dedicated service through the Southern Fishermen Association, expressed profound elation upon receiving confirmation of his honor. “I feel great, really great! I knew I was nominated, but you are confirming to me that I was awarded. I feel great,” he stated with visible emotion.
Beverley Grey, who also received recognition as a National Awardee during Grenada’s 2025 Independence celebrations, described feeling “privileged to be recognised for nation building.” She emphasized that the royal honor would further inspire her “to continue striving for excellence.” Grey’s educational journey began 38 years ago with Grey’s Typing School, which has since evolved into Grey’s Training and Certification Centre. Her institution on Lucas Street has equipped thousands of young Grenadians with essential secretarial and professional skills, significantly contributing to the nation’s human resource development.
The semi-annual honors system, wherein the Monarch as Head of the Commonwealth recognizes outstanding citizens both in June (for the King’s official birthday) and in December (for the New Year), continues to highlight exemplary service across Commonwealth nations. This year’s Grenadian honorees represent decades of cumulative service to critical sectors that form the backbone of the nation’s sustainable development.