< PreviousCayWoman 10 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Every year, the month of March is set aside in Cayman to honour and celebrate the achievements of women, while addressing gender-specific issues. Honouring Women Month is a time for celebration, reflection and call to action. This year, the event marks a milestone – its 25th anniversary – with events and activities focusing around the tagline #InspireInclusion, and the theme of International Women’s Day – a global event taking place annually on 8 March. “Whether you are an individual or operating at a corporate level, it’s about ensuring that you are creating opportunities that inspire inclusion for women – whether that is race, age, gender or abilities,” says Charmaine Miller, clinical supervisor of the Family Resource Centre. “We are creating platforms where we can talk about that, and the actions we can take to inspire inclusiveness.” The Family Resource Centre is a government unit under the Department of Counselling Services, part of the Ministry of Health & Wellness. It organises and facilitates Honouring Women Month events in partnership with the Gender Affairs Unit. RAISING AWARENESS Honouring Women Month was launched in 1999 by then-governor John Owen. “He proclaimed March as a month to celebrate women’s achievements while raising awareness about gender-related issues impacting women in the Cayman Islands, as well as globally,” says Charmaine. The campaign was initially spearheaded by the Women’s Resource Centre, which eventually merged with two other government bodies to form the Family Resource Centre. “We continue to support and lead this campaign because we recognise the importance it holds within our community,” says Charmaine. Included in the various Honouring Women Month events organised by the Family Resource Centre is the celebration of International Women’s Day, with the theme tagline #InspireInclusion encouraging everyone to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women and girls. HWM has several signature events, among them the International Women’s Day Fundraiser Gala, Female-Owned Business Pop Up Market, STEM Girls Camp, Women and Agriculture Workshop, Women and Health Workshop, Young Parent Services Baby Supply Drive, and the Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk. For a full list of events and celebrations during Honouring Women Month, and to download the calendar of events, visit the Family Resource Centre at: dcs.gov.ky HONOURING WOMEN MONTH The Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk is among the signature events taking place during Honouring Women Month. This year’s run is 24 March at Seven Mile Public Beach. Milestone marking 25 years of success. “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.” – Serena Williams, professional tennis champion CayWoman 10 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Every year, the month of March is set aside in Cayman to honour and celebrate the achievements of women, while addressing gender-specific issues. Honouring Women Month is a time for celebration, reflection and call to action. This year, the event marks a milestone – its 25th anniversary – with events and activities focusing around the tagline #InspireInclusion, and the theme of International Women’s Day – a global event taking place annually on 8 March. “Whether you are an individual or operating at a corporate level, it’s about ensuring that you are creating opportunities that inspire inclusion for women – whether that is race, age, gender or abilities,” says Charmaine Miller, clinical supervisor of the Family Resource Centre. “We are creating platforms where we can talk about that, and the actions we can take to inspire inclusiveness.” The Family Resource Centre is a government unit under the Department of Counselling Services, part of the Ministry of Health & Wellness. It organises and facilitates Honouring Women Month events in partnership with the Gender Affairs Unit. RAISING AWARENESS Honouring Women Month was launched in 1999 by then-governor John Owen. “He proclaimed March as a month to celebrate women’s achievements while raising awareness about gender-related issues impacting women in the Cayman Islands, as well as globally,” says Charmaine. The campaign was initially spearheaded by the Women’s Resource Centre, which eventually merged with two other government bodies to form the Family Resource Centre. “We continue to support and lead this campaign because we recognise the importance it holds within our community,” says Charmaine. Included in the various Honouring Women Month events organised by the Family Resource Centre is the celebration of International Women’s Day, with the theme tagline #InspireInclusion encouraging everyone to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women and girls. HWM has several signature events, among them the International Women’s Day Fundraiser Gala, Female-Owned Business Pop Up Market, STEM Girls Camp, Women and Agriculture Workshop, Women and Health Workshop, Young Parent Services Baby Supply Drive, and the Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk. For a full list of events and celebrations during Honouring Women Month, and to download the calendar of events, visit the Family Resource Centre at: dcs.gov.ky HONOURING WOMEN MONTH The Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk is among the signature events taking place during Honouring Women Month. This year’s run is 24 March at Seven Mile Public Beach. Milestone marking 25 years of success. “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.” – Serena Williams, professional tennis championCayWoman 10 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Every year, the month of March is set aside in Cayman to honour and celebrate the achievements of women, while addressing gender-specific issues. Honouring Women Month is a time for celebration, reflection and call to action. This year, the event marks a milestone – its 25th anniversary – with events and activities focusing around the tagline #InspireInclusion, and the theme of International Women’s Day – a global event taking place annually on 8 March. “Whether you are an individual or operating at a corporate level, it’s about ensuring that you are creating opportunities that inspire inclusion for women – whether that is race, age, gender or abilities,” says Charmaine Miller, clinical supervisor of the Family Resource Centre. “We are creating platforms where we can talk about that, and the actions we can take to inspire inclusiveness.” The Family Resource Centre is a government unit under the Department of Counselling Services, part of the Ministry of Health & Wellness. It organises and facilitates Honouring Women Month events in partnership with the Gender Affairs Unit. RAISING AWARENESS Honouring Women Month was launched in 1999 by then-governor John Owen. “He proclaimed March as a month to celebrate women’s achievements while raising awareness about gender-related issues impacting women in the Cayman Islands, as well as globally,” says Charmaine. The campaign was initially spearheaded by the Women’s Resource Centre, which eventually merged with two other government bodies to form the Family Resource Centre. “We continue to support and lead this campaign because we recognise the importance it holds within our community,” says Charmaine. Included in the various Honouring Women Month events organised by the Family Resource Centre is the celebration of International Women’s Day, with the theme tagline #InspireInclusion encouraging everyone to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women and girls. HWM has several signature events, among them the International Women’s Day Fundraiser Gala, Female-Owned Business Pop Up Market, STEM Girls Camp, Women and Agriculture Workshop, Women and Health Workshop, Young Parent Services Baby Supply Drive, and the Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk. For a full list of events and celebrations during Honouring Women Month, and to download the calendar of events, visit the Family Resource Centre at: dcs.gov.ky HONOURING WOMEN MONTH The Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk is among the signature events taking place during Honouring Women Month. This year’s run is 24 March at Seven Mile Public Beach. Milestone marking 25 years of success. “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.” – Serena Williams, professional tennis champion CayWoman 11 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 HONOURING WOMEN MONTH CayWoman 10 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Every year, the month of March is set aside in Cayman to honour and celebrate the achievements of women, while addressing gender-specific issues. Honouring Women Month is a time for celebration, reflection and call to action. This year, the event marks a milestone – its 25th anniversary – with events and activities focusing around the tagline #InspireInclusion, and the theme of International Women’s Day – a global event taking place annually on 8 March. “Whether you are an individual or operating at a corporate level, it’s about ensuring that you are creating opportunities that inspire inclusion for women – whether that is race, age, gender or abilities,” says Charmaine Miller, clinical supervisor of the Family Resource Centre. “We are creating platforms where we can talk about that, and the actions we can take to inspire inclusiveness.” The Family Resource Centre is a government unit under the Department of Counselling Services, part of the Ministry of Health & Wellness. It organises and facilitates Honouring Women Month events in partnership with the Gender Affairs Unit. RAISING AWARENESS Honouring Women Month was launched in 1999 by then-governor John Owen. “He proclaimed March as a month to celebrate women’s achievements while raising awareness about gender-related issues impacting women in the Cayman Islands, as well as globally,” says Charmaine. The campaign was initially spearheaded by the Women’s Resource Centre, which eventually merged with two other government bodies to form the Family Resource Centre. “We continue to support and lead this campaign because we recognise the importance it holds within our community,” says Charmaine. Included in the various Honouring Women Month events organised by the Family Resource Centre is the celebration of International Women’s Day, with the theme tagline #InspireInclusion encouraging everyone to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women and girls. HWM has several signature events, among them the International Women’s Day Fundraiser Gala, Female-Owned Business Pop Up Market, STEM Girls Camp, Women and Agriculture Workshop, Women and Health Workshop, Young Parent Services Baby Supply Drive, and the Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk. For a full list of events and celebrations during Honouring Women Month, and to download the calendar of events, visit the Family Resource Centre at: dcs.gov.ky HONOURING WOMEN MONTH The Colour Me Purple 5K Fun Run/Walk is among the signature events taking place during Honouring Women Month. This year’s run is 24 March at Seven Mile Public Beach. Milestone marking 25 years of success. “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.” – Serena Williams, professional tennis champion Here for equality Inspiring Inclusion At Butterfield we celebrate inclusion and equality today, and every day, as we recognise female achievements in economics, culture and politics this International Women’s Day. Thanks to all of our amazing clients, colleagues and communities where we live and work. Together, we can all change gender stereotypes and promote inclusion every day. butterfieldgroup.com Butterfield Bank (Cayman) Limited is licensed to conduct banking and investment business by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority. Address: 12 Albert Panton Street, George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. 204025-Ad-CayMomen-IWD-fp-InspiringInclusion.indd 12/23/24 5:24 PMCayWoman 12 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “Carnival Duppy VII – Alice in the Islands of the Blessed” (2022) Acrylic, puff paint, ink and collage on wood panel. All artwork by Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette. CayWoman 12 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “Carnival Duppy VII – Alice in the Islands of the Blessed” (2022) Acrylic, puff paint, ink and collage on wood panel. All artwork by Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette.CayWoman 13 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 She’s a pioneer in Cayman’s creative community, an inspiring poet, storyteller, actor, advocate, teacher and visual artist. Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette's work embraces the islands’ history, people, culture and traditions, as well as themes of female strength and empowerment – an influence stemming from the strong women in her family and Cayman’s earlier days. “That is a theme that runs throughout a lot of my work,” she says. “It is very important to me because Caymanian women had no choice but to become strong women of innovation when the men were out to sea.” Indeed, the history of the Cayman Islands put women in a unique – though difficult – position. When the men went to sea to earn a living, often for months on end, it was left to the women to oversee family, financial and civic affairs. “That shows up in my work a lot as artistic conversation about making do, and the magic of making a beautiful life out of extremely poor conditions,” says Nasaria. “These Caymanian women made beds of plantain trash (dried leaves), sewed clothing out of old flour sacks, could spell any word and calculate quickly without a calculator, ran fundraisers for the church, oversaw births and funerals, used bush medicine to heal, made colourful rugs and quilts out of scraps and were really the first environmentalists and upcyclers – they made use of every part of any resource they had. “This ingenuity is what I want to honour in my artworks.” INTERNATIONAL IMPACT It also comes into play in her poetry and storytelling. Nasaria recently took part in ‘The Open Boat’, hosted by Atlantic Arthouse, a curated group show held in Miami’s Little Haiti. She performed her poem, “Just Long Celia”, the story of a woman enslaved in the Cayman Islands, who learned freedom had come but the news had been kept quiet. “The performance was so powerful that by the end of it, the audience was visibly affected, and I was emotionally exhausted; it felt as if the spirit of Long Celia had told her story through me,” says Nasaria. She recently showed her work in New York City, along with her husband Randy Chollette, an artist and musician. They were among nearly 600 artists from 60 countries to present their works on a giant digital billboard in Times Square. She presented her work, “Carnival Duppy VII – Alice in the Islands of the Blessed (2022)”, which explores mental health issues. It was a memorable moment for Nasaria, who studied theatre in the Big Apple. “I had always jokingly said, “Oh, I can’t wait to be on Broadway.’,” she says. “Well, even though I was not physically on Broadway, a piece of my work was and that’s a fun achievement for me.” Artist explores female strength and empowerment, Cayman’s history. Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette performs her poem “Just Long Celia” in the courtyard of the exhibition space at The Open Boat, a group show hosted by Atlantic Arthouse held in Miami’s Little Haiti. BY JENNY GABRUCH Celebrating women & tr adition CayWoman 13 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 She’s a pioneer in Cayman’s creative community, an inspiring poet, storyteller, actor, advocate, teacher and visual artist. Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette's work embraces the islands’ history, people, culture and traditions, as well as themes of female strength and empowerment – an influence stemming from the strong women in her family and Cayman’s earlier days. “That is a theme that runs throughout a lot of my work,” she says. “It is very important to me because Caymanian women had no choice but to become strong women of innovation when the men were out to sea.” Indeed, the history of the Cayman Islands put women in a unique – though difficult – position. When the men went to sea to earn a living, often for months on end, it was left to the women to oversee family, financial and civic affairs. “That shows up in my work a lot as artistic conversation about making do, and the magic of making a beautiful life out of extremely poor conditions,” says Nasaria. “These Caymanian women made beds of plantain trash (dried leaves), sewed clothing out of old flour sacks, could spell any word and calculate quickly without a calculator, ran fundraisers for the church, oversaw births and funerals, used bush medicine to heal, made colourful rugs and quilts out of scraps and were really the first environmentalists and upcyclers – they made use of every part of any resource they had. “This ingenuity is what I want to honour in my artworks.” INTERNATIONAL IMPACT It also comes into play in her poetry and storytelling. Nasaria recently took part in ‘The Open Boat’, hosted by Atlantic Arthouse, a curated group show held in Miami’s Little Haiti. She performed her poem, “Just Long Celia”, the story of a woman enslaved in the Cayman Islands, who learned freedom had come but the news had been kept quiet. “The performance was so powerful that by the end of it, the audience was visibly affected, and I was emotionally exhausted; it felt as if the spirit of Long Celia had told her story through me,” says Nasaria. She recently showed her work in New York City, along with her husband Randy Chollette, an artist and musician. They were among nearly 600 artists from 60 countries to present their works on a giant digital billboard in Times Square. She presented her work, “Carnival Duppy VII – Alice in the Islands of the Blessed (2022)”, which explores mental health issues. It was a memorable moment for Nasaria, who studied theatre in the Big Apple. “I had always jokingly said, “Oh, I can’t wait to be on Broadway.’,” she says. “Well, even though I was not physically on Broadway, a piece of my work was and that’s a fun achievement for me.” Artist explores female strength and empowerment, Cayman’s history. Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette performs her poem “Just Long Celia” in the courtyard of the exhibition space at The Open Boat, a group show hosted by Atlantic Arthouse held in Miami’s Little Haiti. BY JENNY GABRUCH Celebrating women & tr adition CayWoman 12 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “Carnival Duppy VII – Alice in the Islands of the Blessed” (2022) Acrylic, puff paint, ink and collage on wood panel. All artwork by Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette. CayWoman 12 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “Carnival Duppy VII – Alice in the Islands of the Blessed” (2022) Acrylic, puff paint, ink and collage on wood panel. All artwork by Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette.CayWoman 14 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “Oshun Rising III” (2022) Acrylic, enamel, and collage on wood panel. CayWoman 14 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “Oshun Rising III” (2022) Acrylic, enamel, and collage on wood panel.CayWoman 15 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 It was long Celia they called me Not Ntozake Or Mamma Zulu Or even Nanny Just Long Celia Just Long Celia longing for freedom? Just Long Celia hoping for home Just Long Celia free Unna hear dem drums? Naseberry sweet dem words was Just like to bite in And let dem run sticky down my chin free free free Unna hear dem drums? Dis my Sunday offering Dis my boxin day dinner Dis my candle wood It’s in the wind that’s fi dlin through the wattle where the daub has worn away It’s runnin mad like ants across the table where heavy cake has just been cut It’s spillin out of hushed lips like drunken men pouring another cup of sea grape wine Start a revolution…? Take a puff and pass it around Unna hear dem drums? You can’t kraal my spirit but for a little time I feel the light you cannot see And I will swim back home to lay my clutch Where I began to be And iron wood don’t sink Unna hear dem drums? Sarah, you gyapseedin duppy You a blackgyardin tell-tale dead woman You lie And 12 white ghosts are fi ghting over my pickins in fi fty lashes I a woman I a free woman I a naked woman I a torn an tattered woman Buy you still cyant break open my cockspur thorny shell And memba what happen when ya rub a “nicka” wrong. Wake up its morning You still tied to that dock One knot away from Walking on water You still taking lashes from That raging monster Whose rib you took You still fi ghting the refl ection You see in your basin That is me Wake up! Lick dem drums Julia, Lick dem drums GLOSSARY Unna: Caymanian word coming from the Gullah language of the Ibo people wunna meaning “you people”. Naseberry- Fruit Heavy Cake: Pudding-like cake made from root starches like cassava Kraal: Caymanian term for a pen in the water where turtles were kept, coming from the South African word meaning “dwelling place”. Iron wood: Very hard wood Caymanians used to make the frame for their wattle-and-daub houses. Gyapseedin’: Catching news Blackgyardin’: Maligning someone’s character. Cockspur: Prickly vine with very thorny brown shells that hold nicker nuts. The vine is often called lion bush in Africa because it’s so thorny it keeps lions out of the tribal villages. Julia: Aunt Julia, Caymanian icon, 103-year-old female drummer with her own unique style of drumming and homemade drum. She wrote many of Cayman’s traditional folk songs. JUST LONG CELIA ARTISTIC ACCOLADES Nasaria earned her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Howard University, and later her master’s degree in theatre education from New York University. She taught at John Gray High School and served as education coordinator at the Cayman Islands National Museum before focusing her talents on her artwork. A member of the artist collective, Native Sons, Nasaria has exhibited widely in group and solo shows, earning many accolades along the way, among them the McCoy Prize (2006), the inaugural Cayman Islands Biennial Bendel Hydes Award (2019) and the Gold Star for Creativity at the National Arts and Culture Awards (2021). Her solo exhibition at the National Gallery “All the Coals We Left in the Fire” in 2022, focused on themes of yesteryear, the role of women in society and the history of slavery in Cayman, and its impact. Her work is included in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, including her acclaimed piece “The Women Have Become the Truth; for Madiba.” The inspiration for the work came from the Truth and Reconciliation hearings after the atrocities of apartheid in South Africa. She was profoundly affected by the women who survived, many rendered mute after the trauma. “I consider myself an intuitive artist and, as such, my work usually begins from an extraordinarily strong emotional reaction,” she says. “I have always used art and poetry as a way of expressing my emotions and working through diffi cult times.” COMMUNITY CREATION She recently fi nished a community quilt depicting midwifery and home births in the Cayman Islands with a group of artisans and traditional crafters, called Friends and Needles. “I really enjoyed working as a community of women coming together to create, share their stories, share their fears, share their dreams, share their past, and share their future plans,” she says. “It reminded me of the way women gathered in the past to help each other and, in so doing, became community.” Nasaria is looking to do more collaborative artwork down the road. “Right now, I am taking some time to consider what projects I could plan that would bring women together in that way again to create something beautiful,” she says. “The Aunties” (2023) Acrylic, collage and enamel on wood panel. “All Walking Each Other Home II, Marlena’s Dream” (2023) Acrylic, enamel and collage on wood panel. By Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette CayWoman 15 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 It was long Celia they called me Not Ntozake Or Mamma Zulu Or even Nanny Just Long Celia Just Long Celia longing for freedom? Just Long Celia hoping for home Just Long Celia free Unna hear dem drums? Naseberry sweet dem words was Just like to bite in And let dem run sticky down my chin free free free Unna hear dem drums? Dis my Sunday offering Dis my boxin day dinner Dis my candle wood It’s in the wind that’s fi dlin through the wattle where the daub has worn away It’s runnin mad like ants across the table where heavy cake has just been cut It’s spillin out of hushed lips like drunken men pouring another cup of sea grape wine Start a revolution…? Take a puff and pass it around Unna hear dem drums? You can’t kraal my spirit but for a little time I feel the light you cannot see And I will swim back home to lay my clutch Where I began to be And iron wood don’t sink Unna hear dem drums? Sarah, you gyapseedin duppy You a blackgyardin tell-tale dead woman You lie And 12 white ghosts are fi ghting over my pickins in fi fty lashes I a woman I a free woman I a naked woman I a torn an tattered woman Buy you still cyant break open my cockspur thorny shell And memba what happen when ya rub a “nicka” wrong. Wake up its morning You still tied to that dock One knot away from Walking on water You still taking lashes from That raging monster Whose rib you took You still fi ghting the refl ection You see in your basin That is me Wake up! Lick dem drums Julia, Lick dem drums GLOSSARY Unna: Caymanian word coming from the Gullah language of the Ibo people wunna meaning “you people”. Naseberry- Fruit Heavy Cake: Pudding-like cake made from root starches like cassava Kraal: Caymanian term for a pen in the water where turtles were kept, coming from the South African word meaning “dwelling place”. Iron wood: Very hard wood Caymanians used to make the frame for their wattle-and-daub houses. Gyapseedin’: Catching news Blackgyardin’: Maligning someone’s character. Cockspur: Prickly vine with very thorny brown shells that hold nicker nuts. The vine is often called lion bush in Africa because it’s so thorny it keeps lions out of the tribal villages. Julia: Aunt Julia, Caymanian icon, 103-year-old female drummer with her own unique style of drumming and homemade drum. She wrote many of Cayman’s traditional folk songs. JUST LONG CELIA ARTISTIC ACCOLADES Nasaria earned her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Howard University, and later her master’s degree in theatre education from New York University. She taught at John Gray High School and served as education coordinator at the Cayman Islands National Museum before focusing her talents on her artwork. A member of the artist collective, Native Sons, Nasaria has exhibited widely in group and solo shows, earning many accolades along the way, among them the McCoy Prize (2006), the inaugural Cayman Islands Biennial Bendel Hydes Award (2019) and the Gold Star for Creativity at the National Arts and Culture Awards (2021). Her solo exhibition at the National Gallery “All the Coals We Left in the Fire” in 2022, focused on themes of yesteryear, the role of women in society and the history of slavery in Cayman, and its impact. Her work is included in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, including her acclaimed piece “The Women Have Become the Truth; for Madiba.” The inspiration for the work came from the Truth and Reconciliation hearings after the atrocities of apartheid in South Africa. She was profoundly affected by the women who survived, many rendered mute after the trauma. “I consider myself an intuitive artist and, as such, my work usually begins from an extraordinarily strong emotional reaction,” she says. “I have always used art and poetry as a way of expressing my emotions and working through diffi cult times.” COMMUNITY CREATION She recently fi nished a community quilt depicting midwifery and home births in the Cayman Islands with a group of artisans and traditional crafters, called Friends and Needles. “I really enjoyed working as a community of women coming together to create, share their stories, share their fears, share their dreams, share their past, and share their future plans,” she says. “It reminded me of the way women gathered in the past to help each other and, in so doing, became community.” Nasaria is looking to do more collaborative artwork down the road. “Right now, I am taking some time to consider what projects I could plan that would bring women together in that way again to create something beautiful,” she says. “The Aunties” (2023) Acrylic, collage and enamel on wood panel. “All Walking Each Other Home II, Marlena’s Dream” (2023) Acrylic, enamel and collage on wood panel. By Nasaria Suckoo-CholletteCayWoman 16 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024CayWoman 16 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 CayWoman 17 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024CayWoman 18 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Growing up in Cayman Brac, Jacqui Tomlinson- Smith remembers lamp lights, coal irons, no running water, pit toilets and a three-mile walk to and from school. “We had to ‘back' the water from the well and fill the drums for mom, feed the chickens, pigs and horse, before leaving for school in the mornings,” she says. “On weekends, we went with dad and climbed the bluff to weed our potato, peas, and pepper patches.” The family slept on ‘plant thrash’ mattresses, made from dried banana leaves and covered with flour sacks. “They were very cool, but everyone knew your every move on that bed during the night,” says Jacqui. Christmas brought with it new dresses made from chicken-feed sacks, and new shoes, which, once outgrown, had the toes cut off to allow for more wear time. Apples were also a once-a-year Christmas treat, as was beef, bartered from Jacqui’s uncle in exchange for home-grown ground provisions. “We never knew TV, and few had a radio and, of course, phones were non-existent, but we were never bored – we created our own kites, ‘wheelies’, jigs, rock dollies and made the clothes we dressed them in,” Jacqui remembers fondly. “Otherwise, I was busy helping catch lizards or any form of creature for my doctor-to-be brother to dissect. “ Jacqui has come a long way from backing water, becoming the first Caymanian physiotherapist, launching numerous businesses, and presently having Tomlinson Furniture and the Mattress Gallery, RVC Rehab Services Ltd., Beyond Basics Medical Laser & Skincare, and Cayman Career Academy under her stewardship. Jacqui was awarded an MBE in 2002 for services to the community, as well as being honoured as a pioneer in healthcare the National Heroes Day in 2015. PHYSIOTHERAPY DREAMS In 1963 the family, which consisted of 10 children, moved to Grand Cayman to afford the three youngest access to secondary education. Living on Fort Street, Jacqui stumbled across the book “Sue takes up physiotherapy” at the nearby George Town Public Library. “After reading that book, I knew I wanted to become just like Sue,” she says. A visit to Professor Golding in Jamaica for a fractured and dislocated coccyx – there were no specialist doctors in Cayman at the time – led Jacqui to being treated by physiotherapist Mrs. Elliott at University Hospital in Mona. “Again, I knew I wanted to become a physiotherapist to become just like this amazing lady,” she says. Jacqui gained admittance to to the new Mona Rehab Physiotherapy School in Jamaica, receiving a scholarship from the Cayman Islands Ministry of Education. “I was one of 14 students from all over the West Indies who formed the first physiotherapists to train at the [school], from which I graduated in 1965 and returned home to Cayman as the first Caymanian physiotherapist,” she says. Beginning her career in government employment, Jacqui progressed from working from a bag slung over her shoulder, to a small office space which required her to exit the room so the patient could enter. “But we made it, and soon, we were able to expand to the old public health space that became available and then to the old kitchen, where the department remained until the new George Town hospital was built, now known as HSA,” she recalls. As well as being the physiotherapist, Jacqui was the speech, respiratory and occupational therapist, and her fondest memories of those years are of working with the Lighthouse School at the Boatswain Bay Presbyterian church hall. “That experience was priceless,” she says. After having her first child in 1980, and leaving government employ to be at home, Jacqui went on to open the gym Cayman Nautilus and Physiotherapy Centre, before selling Nautilus, and growing the physiotherapy side of the business. Especially drawn to women’s health, Jacqui also became a certified Lamaze childbirth educator, doula, and lactation consultant, before opening Beyond Basics Medical Day Spa in 2007, offering laser aesthetic services. “The response was amazing,” she says, and the success led to the government’s Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman department approaching Jacqui with the idea of Cayman Career Academy, a school for fields such as massage, nails, facials etc. “In 2019, after many hurdles we opened the first CIDESCO School in the Caribbean,” says Jacqui, with CIDESCO – Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie – hailed as the world standard for Beauty and Spa Therapy, with the highest qualifications in the industry. “It is also an EduQual accredited centre and soon we hope to add another prestigious accreditation, which will allow us to offer several new career opportunities for our students.” Jacqui has lived by her motto “Love what you do and do what you love”. Her positive outlook and strong Christian faith have also been driving forces. “I honestly delight in serving the Lord, because I know there is a rich hereafter for any self-denial I may have to make in this life,” she says. Jacqui Tomlinson-Smith.Family support at the National Heroes Day ceremony. Entrepreneurial spirit: JACQUI TOMLINSON-SMITH BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTON CayWoman 18 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Growing up in Cayman Brac, Jacqui Tomlinson- Smith remembers lamp lights, coal irons, no running water, pit toilets and a three-mile walk to and from school. “We had to ‘back' the water from the well and fill the drums for mom, feed the chickens, pigs and horse, before leaving for school in the mornings,” she says. “On weekends, we went with dad and climbed the bluff to weed our potato, peas, and pepper patches.” The family slept on ‘plant thrash’ mattresses, made from dried banana leaves and covered with flour sacks. “They were very cool, but everyone knew your every move on that bed during the night,” says Jacqui. Christmas brought with it new dresses made from chicken-feed sacks, and new shoes, which, once outgrown, had the toes cut off to allow for more wear time. Apples were also a once-a-year Christmas treat, as was beef, bartered from Jacqui’s uncle in exchange for home-grown ground provisions. “We never knew TV, and few had a radio and, of course, phones were non-existent, but we were never bored – we created our own kites, ‘wheelies’, jigs, rock dollies and made the clothes we dressed them in,” Jacqui remembers fondly. “Otherwise, I was busy helping catch lizards or any form of creature for my doctor-to-be brother to dissect. “ Jacqui has come a long way from backing water, becoming the first Caymanian physiotherapist, launching numerous businesses, and presently having Tomlinson Furniture and the Mattress Gallery, RVC Rehab Services Ltd., Beyond Basics Medical Laser & Skincare, and Cayman Career Academy under her stewardship. Jacqui was awarded an MBE in 2002 for services to the community, as well as being honoured as a pioneer in healthcare the National Heroes Day in 2015. PHYSIOTHERAPY DREAMS In 1963 the family, which consisted of 10 children, moved to Grand Cayman to afford the three youngest access to secondary education. Living on Fort Street, Jacqui stumbled across the book “Sue takes up physiotherapy” at the nearby George Town Public Library. “After reading that book, I knew I wanted to become just like Sue,” she says. A visit to Professor Golding in Jamaica for a fractured and dislocated coccyx – there were no specialist doctors in Cayman at the time – led Jacqui to being treated by physiotherapist Mrs. Elliott at University Hospital in Mona. “Again, I knew I wanted to become a physiotherapist to become just like this amazing lady,” she says. Jacqui gained admittance to to the new Mona Rehab Physiotherapy School in Jamaica, receiving a scholarship from the Cayman Islands Ministry of Education. “I was one of 14 students from all over the West Indies who formed the first physiotherapists to train at the [school], from which I graduated in 1965 and returned home to Cayman as the first Caymanian physiotherapist,” she says. Beginning her career in government employment, Jacqui progressed from working from a bag slung over her shoulder, to a small office space which required her to exit the room so the patient could enter. “But we made it, and soon, we were able to expand to the old public health space that became available and then to the old kitchen, where the department remained until the new George Town hospital was built, now known as HSA,” she recalls. As well as being the physiotherapist, Jacqui was the speech, respiratory and occupational therapist, and her fondest memories of those years are of working with the Lighthouse School at the Boatswain Bay Presbyterian church hall. “That experience was priceless,” she says. After having her first child in 1980, and leaving government employ to be at home, Jacqui went on to open the gym Cayman Nautilus and Physiotherapy Centre, before selling Nautilus, and growing the physiotherapy side of the business. Especially drawn to women’s health, Jacqui also became a certified Lamaze childbirth educator, doula, and lactation consultant, before opening Beyond Basics Medical Day Spa in 2007, offering laser aesthetic services. “The response was amazing,” she says, and the success led to the government’s Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman department approaching Jacqui with the idea of Cayman Career Academy, a school for fields such as massage, nails, facials etc. “In 2019, after many hurdles we opened the first CIDESCO School in the Caribbean,” says Jacqui, with CIDESCO – Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie – hailed as the world standard for Beauty and Spa Therapy, with the highest qualifications in the industry. “It is also an EduQual accredited centre and soon we hope to add another prestigious accreditation, which will allow us to offer several new career opportunities for our students.” Jacqui has lived by her motto “Love what you do and do what you love”. Her positive outlook and strong Christian faith have also been driving forces. “I honestly delight in serving the Lord, because I know there is a rich hereafter for any self-denial I may have to make in this life,” she says. Jacqui Tomlinson-Smith.Family support at the National Heroes Day ceremony. Entrepreneurial spirit: JACQUI TOMLINSON-SMITH BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTONCayWoman 18 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Growing up in Cayman Brac, Jacqui Tomlinson- Smith remembers lamp lights, coal irons, no running water, pit toilets and a three-mile walk to and from school. “We had to ‘back' the water from the well and fill the drums for mom, feed the chickens, pigs and horse, before leaving for school in the mornings,” she says. “On weekends, we went with dad and climbed the bluff to weed our potato, peas, and pepper patches.” The family slept on ‘plant thrash’ mattresses, made from dried banana leaves and covered with flour sacks. “They were very cool, but everyone knew your every move on that bed during the night,” says Jacqui. Christmas brought with it new dresses made from chicken-feed sacks, and new shoes, which, once outgrown, had the toes cut off to allow for more wear time. Apples were also a once-a-year Christmas treat, as was beef, bartered from Jacqui’s uncle in exchange for home-grown ground provisions. “We never knew TV, and few had a radio and, of course, phones were non-existent, but we were never bored – we created our own kites, ‘wheelies’, jigs, rock dollies and made the clothes we dressed them in,” Jacqui remembers fondly. “Otherwise, I was busy helping catch lizards or any form of creature for my doctor-to-be brother to dissect. “ Jacqui has come a long way from backing water, becoming the first Caymanian physiotherapist, launching numerous businesses, and presently having Tomlinson Furniture and the Mattress Gallery, RVC Rehab Services Ltd., Beyond Basics Medical Laser & Skincare, and Cayman Career Academy under her stewardship. Jacqui was awarded an MBE in 2002 for services to the community, as well as being honoured as a pioneer in healthcare the National Heroes Day in 2015. PHYSIOTHERAPY DREAMS In 1963 the family, which consisted of 10 children, moved to Grand Cayman to afford the three youngest access to secondary education. Living on Fort Street, Jacqui stumbled across the book “Sue takes up physiotherapy” at the nearby George Town Public Library. “After reading that book, I knew I wanted to become just like Sue,” she says. A visit to Professor Golding in Jamaica for a fractured and dislocated coccyx – there were no specialist doctors in Cayman at the time – led Jacqui to being treated by physiotherapist Mrs. Elliott at University Hospital in Mona. “Again, I knew I wanted to become a physiotherapist to become just like this amazing lady,” she says. Jacqui gained admittance to to the new Mona Rehab Physiotherapy School in Jamaica, receiving a scholarship from the Cayman Islands Ministry of Education. “I was one of 14 students from all over the West Indies who formed the first physiotherapists to train at the [school], from which I graduated in 1965 and returned home to Cayman as the first Caymanian physiotherapist,” she says. Beginning her career in government employment, Jacqui progressed from working from a bag slung over her shoulder, to a small office space which required her to exit the room so the patient could enter. “But we made it, and soon, we were able to expand to the old public health space that became available and then to the old kitchen, where the department remained until the new George Town hospital was built, now known as HSA,” she recalls. As well as being the physiotherapist, Jacqui was the speech, respiratory and occupational therapist, and her fondest memories of those years are of working with the Lighthouse School at the Boatswain Bay Presbyterian church hall. “That experience was priceless,” she says. After having her first child in 1980, and leaving government employ to be at home, Jacqui went on to open the gym Cayman Nautilus and Physiotherapy Centre, before selling Nautilus, and growing the physiotherapy side of the business. Especially drawn to women’s health, Jacqui also became a certified Lamaze childbirth educator, doula, and lactation consultant, before opening Beyond Basics Medical Day Spa in 2007, offering laser aesthetic services. “The response was amazing,” she says, and the success led to the government’s Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman department approaching Jacqui with the idea of Cayman Career Academy, a school for fields such as massage, nails, facials etc. “In 2019, after many hurdles we opened the first CIDESCO School in the Caribbean,” says Jacqui, with CIDESCO – Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie – hailed as the world standard for Beauty and Spa Therapy, with the highest qualifications in the industry. “It is also an EduQual accredited centre and soon we hope to add another prestigious accreditation, which will allow us to offer several new career opportunities for our students.” Jacqui has lived by her motto “Love what you do and do what you love”. Her positive outlook and strong Christian faith have also been driving forces. “I honestly delight in serving the Lord, because I know there is a rich hereafter for any self-denial I may have to make in this life,” she says. Jacqui Tomlinson-Smith.Family support at the National Heroes Day ceremony. Entrepreneurial spirit: JACQUI TOMLINSON-SMITH BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTON CayWoman 19 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 CayWoman 18 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Growing up in Cayman Brac, Jacqui Tomlinson- Smith remembers lamp lights, coal irons, no running water, pit toilets and a three-mile walk to and from school. “We had to ‘back' the water from the well and fill the drums for mom, feed the chickens, pigs and horse, before leaving for school in the mornings,” she says. “On weekends, we went with dad and climbed the bluff to weed our potato, peas, and pepper patches.” The family slept on ‘plant thrash’ mattresses, made from dried banana leaves and covered with flour sacks. “They were very cool, but everyone knew your every move on that bed during the night,” says Jacqui. Christmas brought with it new dresses made from chicken-feed sacks, and new shoes, which, once outgrown, had the toes cut off to allow for more wear time. Apples were also a once-a-year Christmas treat, as was beef, bartered from Jacqui’s uncle in exchange for home-grown ground provisions. “We never knew TV, and few had a radio and, of course, phones were non-existent, but we were never bored – we created our own kites, ‘wheelies’, jigs, rock dollies and made the clothes we dressed them in,” Jacqui remembers fondly. “Otherwise, I was busy helping catch lizards or any form of creature for my doctor-to-be brother to dissect. “ Jacqui has come a long way from backing water, becoming the first Caymanian physiotherapist, launching numerous businesses, and presently having Tomlinson Furniture and the Mattress Gallery, RVC Rehab Services Ltd., Beyond Basics Medical Laser & Skincare, and Cayman Career Academy under her stewardship. Jacqui was awarded an MBE in 2002 for services to the community, as well as being honoured as a pioneer in healthcare the National Heroes Day in 2015. PHYSIOTHERAPY DREAMS In 1963 the family, which consisted of 10 children, moved to Grand Cayman to afford the three youngest access to secondary education. Living on Fort Street, Jacqui stumbled across the book “Sue takes up physiotherapy” at the nearby George Town Public Library. “After reading that book, I knew I wanted to become just like Sue,” she says. A visit to Professor Golding in Jamaica for a fractured and dislocated coccyx – there were no specialist doctors in Cayman at the time – led Jacqui to being treated by physiotherapist Mrs. Elliott at University Hospital in Mona. “Again, I knew I wanted to become a physiotherapist to become just like this amazing lady,” she says. Jacqui gained admittance to to the new Mona Rehab Physiotherapy School in Jamaica, receiving a scholarship from the Cayman Islands Ministry of Education. “I was one of 14 students from all over the West Indies who formed the first physiotherapists to train at the [school], from which I graduated in 1965 and returned home to Cayman as the first Caymanian physiotherapist,” she says. Beginning her career in government employment, Jacqui progressed from working from a bag slung over her shoulder, to a small office space which required her to exit the room so the patient could enter. “But we made it, and soon, we were able to expand to the old public health space that became available and then to the old kitchen, where the department remained until the new George Town hospital was built, now known as HSA,” she recalls. As well as being the physiotherapist, Jacqui was the speech, respiratory and occupational therapist, and her fondest memories of those years are of working with the Lighthouse School at the Boatswain Bay Presbyterian church hall. “That experience was priceless,” she says. After having her first child in 1980, and leaving government employ to be at home, Jacqui went on to open the gym Cayman Nautilus and Physiotherapy Centre, before selling Nautilus, and growing the physiotherapy side of the business. Especially drawn to women’s health, Jacqui also became a certified Lamaze childbirth educator, doula, and lactation consultant, before opening Beyond Basics Medical Day Spa in 2007, offering laser aesthetic services. “The response was amazing,” she says, and the success led to the government’s Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman department approaching Jacqui with the idea of Cayman Career Academy, a school for fields such as massage, nails, facials etc. “In 2019, after many hurdles we opened the first CIDESCO School in the Caribbean,” says Jacqui, with CIDESCO – Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie – hailed as the world standard for Beauty and Spa Therapy, with the highest qualifications in the industry. “It is also an EduQual accredited centre and soon we hope to add another prestigious accreditation, which will allow us to offer several new career opportunities for our students.” Jacqui has lived by her motto “Love what you do and do what you love”. Her positive outlook and strong Christian faith have also been driving forces. “I honestly delight in serving the Lord, because I know there is a rich hereafter for any self-denial I may have to make in this life,” she says. Jacqui Tomlinson-Smith.Family support at the National Heroes Day ceremony. Entrepreneurial spirit: JACQUI TOMLINSON-SMITH BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTONNext >