< PreviousCayWoman 20 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Since arriving in the Cayman Islands in 1992, musician and teacher Sue Horrocks has dedicated her life to children and the community. She has immersed herself in music for all ages and occasions, last year receiving a British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours for her contribution to the arts. “I was amazed and very humbled,” she says. “It was not something I ever imagined I would be worthy of. Once I got used to the idea, I felt I was somehow part of making history, being in the King’s first-ever honours list.” In fact, many might say that it was Sue, herself, who has been making history in Cayman with the numerous musical initiatives and events she has organised and led. TEACHING She first taught at Cayman Prep, after qualifying and teaching at Cambridge University in the UK. “I came as a music teacher and have taught music across the age ranges – both classroom and instrumental; I wear two hats,” she says. Here, she co-founded Cayman Prep school band with music teacher Alison Beak. They were determined to raise the profile of music and get students to a standard where they could enjoy all the positives of playing in an ensemble. After 25 years teaching all primary school subjects, Sue moved to St. Ignatius where she was appointed deputy head of primary school, and was also head of music for all classes. In January 2023, she took up her current role as principal at Hope Academy. CAYMAN NATIONAL CHOIR Sue is well-known with her work with the Cayman National Choir, having taken over as musical director in 1998. “I heard that they couldn’t find a new director and that it may have to fold if they couldn’t get someone to do it,” she says. “I gladly took it on as I couldn’t see the national choir stop.” As part of her music degree, Sue had trained as a choral singer and conductor. “I was fortunate to sing under Sir David Willcocks and Stephen Cleobury in Cambridge,” she recalls. “Both had been director of music of King’s College Choir, and they also directed Cambridge University Chorus. Sue Horrocks. Making music BY CATHERINE MACGILLIVRAY “The sound of the collective human voice touches the heart like no other instrument.” – Sue Horrocks Phot o: Taneos R amsa y. CayWoman 20 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Since arriving in the Cayman Islands in 1992, musician and teacher Sue Horrocks has dedicated her life to children and the community. She has immersed herself in music for all ages and occasions, last year receiving a British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours for her contribution to the arts. “I was amazed and very humbled,” she says. “It was not something I ever imagined I would be worthy of. Once I got used to the idea, I felt I was somehow part of making history, being in the King’s first-ever honours list.” In fact, many might say that it was Sue, herself, who has been making history in Cayman with the numerous musical initiatives and events she has organised and led. TEACHING She first taught at Cayman Prep, after qualifying and teaching at Cambridge University in the UK. “I came as a music teacher and have taught music across the age ranges – both classroom and instrumental; I wear two hats,” she says. Here, she co-founded Cayman Prep school band with music teacher Alison Beak. They were determined to raise the profile of music and get students to a standard where they could enjoy all the positives of playing in an ensemble. After 25 years teaching all primary school subjects, Sue moved to St. Ignatius where she was appointed deputy head of primary school, and was also head of music for all classes. In January 2023, she took up her current role as principal at Hope Academy. CAYMAN NATIONAL CHOIR Sue is well-known with her work with the Cayman National Choir, having taken over as musical director in 1998. “I heard that they couldn’t find a new director and that it may have to fold if they couldn’t get someone to do it,” she says. “I gladly took it on as I couldn’t see the national choir stop.” As part of her music degree, Sue had trained as a choral singer and conductor. “I was fortunate to sing under Sir David Willcocks and Stephen Cleobury in Cambridge,” she recalls. “Both had been director of music of King’s College Choir, and they also directed Cambridge University Chorus. Sue Horrocks. Making music BY CATHERINE MACGILLIVRAY “The sound of the collective human voice touches the heart like no other instrument.” – Sue Horrocks Phot o: Taneos R amsa y.CayWoman 20 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Since arriving in the Cayman Islands in 1992, musician and teacher Sue Horrocks has dedicated her life to children and the community. She has immersed herself in music for all ages and occasions, last year receiving a British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours for her contribution to the arts. “I was amazed and very humbled,” she says. “It was not something I ever imagined I would be worthy of. Once I got used to the idea, I felt I was somehow part of making history, being in the King’s first-ever honours list.” In fact, many might say that it was Sue, herself, who has been making history in Cayman with the numerous musical initiatives and events she has organised and led. TEACHING She first taught at Cayman Prep, after qualifying and teaching at Cambridge University in the UK. “I came as a music teacher and have taught music across the age ranges – both classroom and instrumental; I wear two hats,” she says. Here, she co-founded Cayman Prep school band with music teacher Alison Beak. They were determined to raise the profile of music and get students to a standard where they could enjoy all the positives of playing in an ensemble. After 25 years teaching all primary school subjects, Sue moved to St. Ignatius where she was appointed deputy head of primary school, and was also head of music for all classes. In January 2023, she took up her current role as principal at Hope Academy. CAYMAN NATIONAL CHOIR Sue is well-known with her work with the Cayman National Choir, having taken over as musical director in 1998. “I heard that they couldn’t find a new director and that it may have to fold if they couldn’t get someone to do it,” she says. “I gladly took it on as I couldn’t see the national choir stop.” As part of her music degree, Sue had trained as a choral singer and conductor. “I was fortunate to sing under Sir David Willcocks and Stephen Cleobury in Cambridge,” she recalls. “Both had been director of music of King’s College Choir, and they also directed Cambridge University Chorus. Sue Horrocks. Making music BY CATHERINE MACGILLIVRAY “The sound of the collective human voice touches the heart like no other instrument.” – Sue Horrocks Phot o: Taneos R amsa y. CayWoman 21 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “We sang in some amazing venues: Royal Festival Hall (in London), The Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford. My favourite, though, was singing the mighty Symphony No. 8 by Gustav Mahler at the Royal Albert Hall (London) under the baton of Sir David Willcocks.” CAYMAN NATIONAL ORCHESTRA Sue was also instrumental in forming Cayman National Orchestra in 2002. Previously there had been a small string ensemble called Cayman Strings, which sometimes accompanied Cayman National Choir alongside musicians brought in from Florida. “I decided we had enough talent on the island and so founded the Cayman Chamber Orchestra, which grew, and I asked the then governor permission for us to be named Cayman National Orchestra,” says Sue. Among the many community endeavours that the choir and orchestra have been involved with over the years is raising money for Cayman’s hospice services. Sue worked closely with Dr. Ginny Hobday and Liz Walker to organise the first of many ‘Voices for Hospices’ concerts; an event which happens bi- annually. And she composed a piece for the choir and orchestra called ‘Acceptance’ based on the last of the seven stages of grief. “We also presented themed nights at various restaurants – a Celtic night and a classical night, to name but a few.” says Sue. “The restaurants prepared set menus to match the theme and we played whilst guests dined.” They have also performed at occasions spanning the breadth of community life, from small functions to state events. OTHER ENDEAVOURS Sue is also involved with Cayman Arts Festival in which she has prepared musical programmes for the finale concerts, and collaborated with visiting musicians and conductors from the UK. As well teaching, and her work with the choir and orchestra, Sue herself plays a number of instruments. “Flute is my main instrument,” she says. “I also play piccolo, piano, Baroque recorders, guitar, ukulele. I used to play the violin and a bit (only a bit) of soprano sax, alto sax, clarinet and oboe. I also really enjoy playing orchestral percussion, but I am no expert.” Sue has played at many fund-raising occasions for charitable organisations such as the Pink Ladies, The Pines, Jasmine and other good causes. She has also acted, directed, musical directed, or played flute in more than 30 productions by Cayman Drama Society. “I was raised to put service over self,” she says. “Performing in an ensemble for the sole purpose of music-making, aiming to enhance a charitable or community event, brings huge satisfaction and intrinsic reward.” And Sue considers each concert a privilege to conduct and enjoys every choral occasion. “The sound of the collective human voice touches the heart like no other instrument,” she says. Sue receives her BEM in 2023. Cayman National Choir performing the Hallelujah Chorus at the 50 years celebration of the House of Parliament (formerly the Legislative Assembly). Cayman National Choir & Orchestra perform at Harquail Theatre. Sue Horrocks with Cayman National Choir & Orchestra at the new gymnasium, Cayman International School, in November 2022. CayWoman 20 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Since arriving in the Cayman Islands in 1992, musician and teacher Sue Horrocks has dedicated her life to children and the community. She has immersed herself in music for all ages and occasions, last year receiving a British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours for her contribution to the arts. “I was amazed and very humbled,” she says. “It was not something I ever imagined I would be worthy of. Once I got used to the idea, I felt I was somehow part of making history, being in the King’s first-ever honours list.” In fact, many might say that it was Sue, herself, who has been making history in Cayman with the numerous musical initiatives and events she has organised and led. TEACHING She first taught at Cayman Prep, after qualifying and teaching at Cambridge University in the UK. “I came as a music teacher and have taught music across the age ranges – both classroom and instrumental; I wear two hats,” she says. Here, she co-founded Cayman Prep school band with music teacher Alison Beak. They were determined to raise the profile of music and get students to a standard where they could enjoy all the positives of playing in an ensemble. After 25 years teaching all primary school subjects, Sue moved to St. Ignatius where she was appointed deputy head of primary school, and was also head of music for all classes. In January 2023, she took up her current role as principal at Hope Academy. CAYMAN NATIONAL CHOIR Sue is well-known with her work with the Cayman National Choir, having taken over as musical director in 1998. “I heard that they couldn’t find a new director and that it may have to fold if they couldn’t get someone to do it,” she says. “I gladly took it on as I couldn’t see the national choir stop.” As part of her music degree, Sue had trained as a choral singer and conductor. “I was fortunate to sing under Sir David Willcocks and Stephen Cleobury in Cambridge,” she recalls. “Both had been director of music of King’s College Choir, and they also directed Cambridge University Chorus. Sue Horrocks. Making music BY CATHERINE MACGILLIVRAY “The sound of the collective human voice touches the heart like no other instrument.” – Sue Horrocks Phot o: Taneos R amsa y. CayWoman 21 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 “We sang in some amazing venues: Royal Festival Hall (in London), The Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford. My favourite, though, was singing the mighty Symphony No. 8 by Gustav Mahler at the Royal Albert Hall (London) under the baton of Sir David Willcocks.” CAYMAN NATIONAL ORCHESTRA Sue was also instrumental in forming Cayman National Orchestra in 2002. Previously there had been a small string ensemble called Cayman Strings, which sometimes accompanied Cayman National Choir alongside musicians brought in from Florida. “I decided we had enough talent on the island and so founded the Cayman Chamber Orchestra, which grew, and I asked the then governor permission for us to be named Cayman National Orchestra,” says Sue. Among the many community endeavours that the choir and orchestra have been involved with over the years is raising money for Cayman’s hospice services. Sue worked closely with Dr. Ginny Hobday and Liz Walker to organise the first of many ‘Voices for Hospices’ concerts; an event which happens bi- annually. And she composed a piece for the choir and orchestra called ‘Acceptance’ based on the last of the seven stages of grief. “We also presented themed nights at various restaurants – a Celtic night and a classical night, to name but a few.” says Sue. “The restaurants prepared set menus to match the theme and we played whilst guests dined.” They have also performed at occasions spanning the breadth of community life, from small functions to state events. OTHER ENDEAVOURS Sue is also involved with Cayman Arts Festival in which she has prepared musical programmes for the finale concerts, and collaborated with visiting musicians and conductors from the UK. As well teaching, and her work with the choir and orchestra, Sue herself plays a number of instruments. “Flute is my main instrument,” she says. “I also play piccolo, piano, Baroque recorders, guitar, ukulele. I used to play the violin and a bit (only a bit) of soprano sax, alto sax, clarinet and oboe. I also really enjoy playing orchestral percussion, but I am no expert.” Sue has played at many fund-raising occasions for charitable organisations such as the Pink Ladies, The Pines, Jasmine and other good causes. She has also acted, directed, musical directed, or played flute in more than 30 productions by Cayman Drama Society. “I was raised to put service over self,” she says. “Performing in an ensemble for the sole purpose of music-making, aiming to enhance a charitable or community event, brings huge satisfaction and intrinsic reward.” And Sue considers each concert a privilege to conduct and enjoys every choral occasion. “The sound of the collective human voice touches the heart like no other instrument,” she says. Sue receives her BEM in 2023. Cayman National Choir performing the Hallelujah Chorus at the 50 years celebration of the House of Parliament (formerly the Legislative Assembly). Cayman National Choir & Orchestra perform at Harquail Theatre. Sue Horrocks with Cayman National Choir & Orchestra at the new gymnasium, Cayman International School, in November 2022.CayWoman 22 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024CayWoman 22 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 CayWoman 23 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024CayWoman 24 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 inspirational women. Over half of our team are unique, empowered, successful, 371 WOMEN STRONGCayWoman 24 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 CayWoman 25 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Leadership in action. Join us in celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in business. We are proud to highlight that 65% of our team are women, showcasing our dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace. Our commitment to equality has seen women not just progress but take the lead at Island Heritage. With six women holding key management roles, it isn’t just inclusion – it’s leadership in action. Together, let’s continue to break barriers and build a future where gender equality isn’t the goal, but the norm. islandheritageinsurance.comCayWoman 26 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 She’s well-known for her incredible accomplishments as an extreme athlete, as well as her impressive efforts to support community causes. Kerri Kanuga is a six-time finisher in the gruelling Badwater 135 ultramarathon, considered the world’s toughest foot race. The 135-mile route take runners through the scorching heat of California’s Death Valley and challenging terrain that covers three mountain ranges. She completed the Spartathlon in Greece last year, a 153-mile race from Athens to Sparti, the first person from the Caribbean to complete the daunting course in its 41-year history. Kerri has also represented Cayman in races all over the world, including Brazil, China and Africa. It’s a remarkable résumé, given swimming was initially her chosen sport. That changed in 2010, when she ran her first distance race, the Cayman Islands Marathon. “Before I did my first marathon, I never dreamed I would complete one,” she says. Kerri went on to compete in Off the Beaten Track, a 50K run, and then the Keys100, her first 100-mile race, from Key Largo to Key West, Florida. She has since completed more than 20 races of 100 miles or more, including the Tahoe 200 Endurance Run, which takes place around Lake Tahoe on the border between Nevada and California. GIVING BACK While the endurance athlete and owner/broker of Trident Properties is proud of her accomplishments, there is another aspect to her epic adventures that comes into play – giving back to the community. She has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charitable causes over the years, among them St. Baldrick’s Foundation, which funds childhood cancer research, local animal rescue group Canine Friends, the Breast Cancer Foundation, and hospice care facility, Jasmine. Her community involvement also includes sitting on several boards, such as the Cayman Islands Cancer Society, Rotary Cayman, Meals on Wheels, Junior Achievement and Cayman Islands Animal Rescue Enthusiasts (CARE). “I have always tried to pay it forward, so when I see something that I can help with, I do my best,” she says. All money raised goes directly to the chosen charities, as Kerri pays all expenses for her races and swim events. Her distance swims include a double-crossing of the channel between Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, a 12.5-mile swim around Key West, and a series of solo swims circumventing Grand Cayman. Combining her love of running and swimming, she launched the ‘Ker-a-thon’ in 2015, an endurance event that included a six-mile swim from Starfish Point to Barkers and back, followed by a 107-mile run – the equivalent of four back-to-back marathons. GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR CHARITY Kerri Kanuga pays it forward with ultramarathon feats. Powerhouse marathoner Kerri Kanuga has combined her endurance runs and swim events with raising funds for charitable causes. BY JENNY GABRUCH CayWoman 26 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 She’s well-known for her incredible accomplishments as an extreme athlete, as well as her impressive efforts to support community causes. Kerri Kanuga is a six-time finisher in the gruelling Badwater 135 ultramarathon, considered the world’s toughest foot race. The 135-mile route take runners through the scorching heat of California’s Death Valley and challenging terrain that covers three mountain ranges. She completed the Spartathlon in Greece last year, a 153-mile race from Athens to Sparti, the first person from the Caribbean to complete the daunting course in its 41-year history. Kerri has also represented Cayman in races all over the world, including Brazil, China and Africa. It’s a remarkable résumé, given swimming was initially her chosen sport. That changed in 2010, when she ran her first distance race, the Cayman Islands Marathon. “Before I did my first marathon, I never dreamed I would complete one,” she says. Kerri went on to compete in Off the Beaten Track, a 50K run, and then the Keys100, her first 100-mile race, from Key Largo to Key West, Florida. She has since completed more than 20 races of 100 miles or more, including the Tahoe 200 Endurance Run, which takes place around Lake Tahoe on the border between Nevada and California. GIVING BACK While the endurance athlete and owner/broker of Trident Properties is proud of her accomplishments, there is another aspect to her epic adventures that comes into play – giving back to the community. She has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charitable causes over the years, among them St. Baldrick’s Foundation, which funds childhood cancer research, local animal rescue group Canine Friends, the Breast Cancer Foundation, and hospice care facility, Jasmine. Her community involvement also includes sitting on several boards, such as the Cayman Islands Cancer Society, Rotary Cayman, Meals on Wheels, Junior Achievement and Cayman Islands Animal Rescue Enthusiasts (CARE). “I have always tried to pay it forward, so when I see something that I can help with, I do my best,” she says. All money raised goes directly to the chosen charities, as Kerri pays all expenses for her races and swim events. Her distance swims include a double-crossing of the channel between Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, a 12.5-mile swim around Key West, and a series of solo swims circumventing Grand Cayman. Combining her love of running and swimming, she launched the ‘Ker-a-thon’ in 2015, an endurance event that included a six-mile swim from Starfish Point to Barkers and back, followed by a 107-mile run – the equivalent of four back-to-back marathons. GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR CHARITY Kerri Kanuga pays it forward with ultramarathon feats. Powerhouse marathoner Kerri Kanuga has combined her endurance runs and swim events with raising funds for charitable causes. BY JENNY GABRUCHCayWoman 26 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 She’s well-known for her incredible accomplishments as an extreme athlete, as well as her impressive efforts to support community causes. Kerri Kanuga is a six-time finisher in the gruelling Badwater 135 ultramarathon, considered the world’s toughest foot race. The 135-mile route take runners through the scorching heat of California’s Death Valley and challenging terrain that covers three mountain ranges. She completed the Spartathlon in Greece last year, a 153-mile race from Athens to Sparti, the first person from the Caribbean to complete the daunting course in its 41-year history. Kerri has also represented Cayman in races all over the world, including Brazil, China and Africa. It’s a remarkable résumé, given swimming was initially her chosen sport. That changed in 2010, when she ran her first distance race, the Cayman Islands Marathon. “Before I did my first marathon, I never dreamed I would complete one,” she says. Kerri went on to compete in Off the Beaten Track, a 50K run, and then the Keys100, her first 100-mile race, from Key Largo to Key West, Florida. She has since completed more than 20 races of 100 miles or more, including the Tahoe 200 Endurance Run, which takes place around Lake Tahoe on the border between Nevada and California. GIVING BACK While the endurance athlete and owner/broker of Trident Properties is proud of her accomplishments, there is another aspect to her epic adventures that comes into play – giving back to the community. She has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charitable causes over the years, among them St. Baldrick’s Foundation, which funds childhood cancer research, local animal rescue group Canine Friends, the Breast Cancer Foundation, and hospice care facility, Jasmine. Her community involvement also includes sitting on several boards, such as the Cayman Islands Cancer Society, Rotary Cayman, Meals on Wheels, Junior Achievement and Cayman Islands Animal Rescue Enthusiasts (CARE). “I have always tried to pay it forward, so when I see something that I can help with, I do my best,” she says. All money raised goes directly to the chosen charities, as Kerri pays all expenses for her races and swim events. Her distance swims include a double-crossing of the channel between Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, a 12.5-mile swim around Key West, and a series of solo swims circumventing Grand Cayman. Combining her love of running and swimming, she launched the ‘Ker-a-thon’ in 2015, an endurance event that included a six-mile swim from Starfish Point to Barkers and back, followed by a 107-mile run – the equivalent of four back-to-back marathons. GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR CHARITY Kerri Kanuga pays it forward with ultramarathon feats. Powerhouse marathoner Kerri Kanuga has combined her endurance runs and swim events with raising funds for charitable causes. BY JENNY GABRUCH CayWoman 27 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 In 2020, she swam 12.4 miles across the North Sound as part of ‘Making Waves for Charity’. The event, held during the pandemic, invited other groups and individuals to join a virtual run, or to walk/run in their neighbourhood or on their treadmills. A moving moment came earlier this year when Kerri was presented with an award from Frank Flowers, founder of Flowers Sea Swim. The inscription reads: “In appreciation of your continued support of swimming in the Cayman Islands”. “I cried – it was totally unexpected,” she says. “I am humbled and touched that my contributions are recognised.” Another major honour came in 2021 from St. Baldrick’s Foundation, which recognises volunteers who go ‘above and beyond’ in the fight against childhood cancers. Kerri has raised funds for Hannah’s Heroes, a fund in honour of Cayman’s Hannah Meeson, a brain cancer survivor who was diagnosed at age four. “I received the honour of being called up to the ‘Knights of the Bald Table, a noble rank among the valiant League of Legendary Heroes’,” she says. RUNNING FROM THE HEART She is now poised to raise funds for the Cayman Heart Foundation, with a 107-mile run – from Starfish Point to Barkers and back again – set for the May long weekend. It is a non-profit organisation that is close to her heart. “When I was in Canada over Christmas, I learned one of my friends has a grandson who is in need of a new heart,” she says. “He is only three years old. I was very saddened to hear this, and I know there is a need in the Cayman Islands for these types of procedures.” Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in Cayman. “I hope to raise funds and awareness,” she says. “This much-needed funding will go towards lifesaving tools, such as free health screenings, AEDs and assisting individuals who require treatment.” She is inviting other athletes to join her in the event, either the entire 107-mile distance or part of the distance. In the meantime, Kerri has her sights set on running her 7th Badwater 135 as well as taking part in the next Spartathlon. INSPIRING OTHERS Not only are Kerri’s Herculean accomplishments impressive, but inspirational to others. She notes the dedication and discipline it takes to participate in these extreme athletic events – where she battles adversity and unrelenting elements – plays into other aspects of her life. “How you do one thing is how you do everything, so I find the hard work I put into sport is reflected in my career and home life,” she says. “I truly believe that we are all capable of amazing things.” GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR CHARITY Kerri Kanuga at the finish line of the Badwater 135. Kerri Kanuga with Hannah Meeson, now a teenager, a brain cancer survivor. On the course of the gruelling Badwater 135. Winning fourth place female, and first in her age category, at the 2023 Cayman Islands Marathon. CayWoman 26 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 She’s well-known for her incredible accomplishments as an extreme athlete, as well as her impressive efforts to support community causes. Kerri Kanuga is a six-time finisher in the gruelling Badwater 135 ultramarathon, considered the world’s toughest foot race. The 135-mile route take runners through the scorching heat of California’s Death Valley and challenging terrain that covers three mountain ranges. She completed the Spartathlon in Greece last year, a 153-mile race from Athens to Sparti, the first person from the Caribbean to complete the daunting course in its 41-year history. Kerri has also represented Cayman in races all over the world, including Brazil, China and Africa. It’s a remarkable résumé, given swimming was initially her chosen sport. That changed in 2010, when she ran her first distance race, the Cayman Islands Marathon. “Before I did my first marathon, I never dreamed I would complete one,” she says. Kerri went on to compete in Off the Beaten Track, a 50K run, and then the Keys100, her first 100-mile race, from Key Largo to Key West, Florida. She has since completed more than 20 races of 100 miles or more, including the Tahoe 200 Endurance Run, which takes place around Lake Tahoe on the border between Nevada and California. GIVING BACK While the endurance athlete and owner/broker of Trident Properties is proud of her accomplishments, there is another aspect to her epic adventures that comes into play – giving back to the community. She has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charitable causes over the years, among them St. Baldrick’s Foundation, which funds childhood cancer research, local animal rescue group Canine Friends, the Breast Cancer Foundation, and hospice care facility, Jasmine. Her community involvement also includes sitting on several boards, such as the Cayman Islands Cancer Society, Rotary Cayman, Meals on Wheels, Junior Achievement and Cayman Islands Animal Rescue Enthusiasts (CARE). “I have always tried to pay it forward, so when I see something that I can help with, I do my best,” she says. All money raised goes directly to the chosen charities, as Kerri pays all expenses for her races and swim events. Her distance swims include a double-crossing of the channel between Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, a 12.5-mile swim around Key West, and a series of solo swims circumventing Grand Cayman. Combining her love of running and swimming, she launched the ‘Ker-a-thon’ in 2015, an endurance event that included a six-mile swim from Starfish Point to Barkers and back, followed by a 107-mile run – the equivalent of four back-to-back marathons. GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR CHARITY Kerri Kanuga pays it forward with ultramarathon feats. Powerhouse marathoner Kerri Kanuga has combined her endurance runs and swim events with raising funds for charitable causes. BY JENNY GABRUCH CayWoman 27 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 In 2020, she swam 12.4 miles across the North Sound as part of ‘Making Waves for Charity’. The event, held during the pandemic, invited other groups and individuals to join a virtual run, or to walk/run in their neighbourhood or on their treadmills. A moving moment came earlier this year when Kerri was presented with an award from Frank Flowers, founder of Flowers Sea Swim. The inscription reads: “In appreciation of your continued support of swimming in the Cayman Islands”. “I cried – it was totally unexpected,” she says. “I am humbled and touched that my contributions are recognised.” Another major honour came in 2021 from St. Baldrick’s Foundation, which recognises volunteers who go ‘above and beyond’ in the fight against childhood cancers. Kerri has raised funds for Hannah’s Heroes, a fund in honour of Cayman’s Hannah Meeson, a brain cancer survivor who was diagnosed at age four. “I received the honour of being called up to the ‘Knights of the Bald Table, a noble rank among the valiant League of Legendary Heroes’,” she says. RUNNING FROM THE HEART She is now poised to raise funds for the Cayman Heart Foundation, with a 107-mile run – from Starfish Point to Barkers and back again – set for the May long weekend. It is a non-profit organisation that is close to her heart. “When I was in Canada over Christmas, I learned one of my friends has a grandson who is in need of a new heart,” she says. “He is only three years old. I was very saddened to hear this, and I know there is a need in the Cayman Islands for these types of procedures.” Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in Cayman. “I hope to raise funds and awareness,” she says. “This much-needed funding will go towards lifesaving tools, such as free health screenings, AEDs and assisting individuals who require treatment.” She is inviting other athletes to join her in the event, either the entire 107-mile distance or part of the distance. In the meantime, Kerri has her sights set on running her 7th Badwater 135 as well as taking part in the next Spartathlon. INSPIRING OTHERS Not only are Kerri’s Herculean accomplishments impressive, but inspirational to others. She notes the dedication and discipline it takes to participate in these extreme athletic events – where she battles adversity and unrelenting elements – plays into other aspects of her life. “How you do one thing is how you do everything, so I find the hard work I put into sport is reflected in my career and home life,” she says. “I truly believe that we are all capable of amazing things.” GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR CHARITY Kerri Kanuga at the finish line of the Badwater 135. Kerri Kanuga with Hannah Meeson, now a teenager, a brain cancer survivor. On the course of the gruelling Badwater 135. Winning fourth place female, and first in her age category, at the 2023 Cayman Islands Marathon.CayWoman 28 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Afemale-founded law firm is unique in Cayman’s well-populated legal landscape. However, the ladies of Claritas Legal Limited did not let that deter them when they launched in 2022 off the back of sister firm Claritas Compliance Limited. The legal arm offers litigation, insolvency and regulatory legal advice, while the compliance arm offers regulatory compliance advice, largely, but not only, relating to anti-money laundering compliance. The fact that Claritas was spearheaded by three already accomplished women – Elisabeth Lees, Katie Pearson and Justine Plenkiewicz – is only one reason the ladies believe the law firm is set apart from others in Cayman. BOUTIQUE BENEFITS Katie, previously partner in the litigation and insolvency department of global offshore law firm Harneys, saw the benefits for clients in approaching more boutique firms. “There are a lot of benefits to being part of a global organisation, but for litigators there are downsides as well,” says Katie. “For example, because those firms have so many clients you have to turn down a lot of work due to conflicts of interest and often can’t act against large financial institutions.” It is for this reason Katie says, that partners in London and the US often leave big firms to set up litigation boutique firms. “No one had done that in Cayman,” she continues. “And, given the volume of high-profile litigation that is heard in the Grand Court here, I thought there was an obvious gap in the market for an independent, conflict-free litigation firm.” Co-founder Elisabeth also values the personal benefits that shaping a boutique firm from conception has afforded her and the others who started the company. “I decided that I wanted to be in control of the type of work I undertook and to provide excellent and tailored services,” she explains. “I wanted to ensure that the work and the company ethics were aligned with my own values and also with a more modern approach. Additionally, I wanted the flexibility to be able to work from home or from other countries, as required.” BARRIERS As with most industries, there are still barriers for women in the legal profession, particularly those balancing careers with child-rearing or caregiving, notes Katie. “Law firms are very conservative, and many of the structures and processes they follow have been in place for decades, and date from a time when there were few, if any, women at the senior levels of the profession, and when there was certainly no expectation that you would be a lawyer and also have significant caregiving responsibilities (because you would have a wife at home to handle all of that),” she says. “They were literally designed 'by men for men'. While progress is being made, I think this can still be seen in expectations around billable hours, attitudes towards remote and flexible working, and partner compensation models.” While Elisabeth says that for the most part she has been treated fairly and equally, she does notice the inequality in the profession. “The challenges manifest themselves in more subtle ways,” she says. “For example, at the International Bar Association Women Lawyers’ Committee it was shocking how many female lawyers, often partners at top firms, had been subject to some form of inappropriate comment or touching during their careers.” Progress is evident, however. “I am delighted that we have very recently had our first female Court of Appeal judge appointed and, of course, our first female chief justice,” Elisabeth points out. “In the Cayman Islands, we also have lots of female role models. The first director of public prosecutions was female and my previous boss Cheryll Richards K.C. now sits as a judge of the Grand Court.” BALANCE Alongside their regular work days is time spent with family and community involvement. One of the firm’s core values is inclusion and, as such, it has sponsored organisations with a focus on this, including Inclusion Cayman and the Cayman Youth Choir (which is open to children for free), as well as a women empowerment conference, encouraging adolescent females with their career paths. Katie also sits on the education committee of Cayman’s Restructuring and Insolvency Specialists Association, while Elisabeth does the same for the Cayman Islands Compliance Association, as well as being deputy chair of the Health Appeals Tribunal. “These [positions] offer opportunities to give back, and to be involved in the community,” says Elisabeth, who admits that balance is something she strives for, but finds difficult to achieve. “I think the key is to be present in whatever you are doing,” she says. “That is, to be present for work and not worrying about family responsibilities and, equally, to be present with my two young children when I am with them.” Katie also has the challenge of balancing work and family life with two primary-school aged daughters. “I am absolutely ruthless with my time and say no to a lot of things because I hate the stress of being over-committed,” she says. Legal clarity Katie Pearson, Elisabeth Lees and Justine Plenkiewicz. Elisabeth Lees and Katie Pearson. Phot os: Jane t Jar cho w . BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTON Female-led law firm Claritas. CayWoman 28 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Afemale-founded law firm is unique in Cayman’s well-populated legal landscape. However, the ladies of Claritas Legal Limited did not let that deter them when they launched in 2022 off the back of sister firm Claritas Compliance Limited. The legal arm offers litigation, insolvency and regulatory legal advice, while the compliance arm offers regulatory compliance advice, largely, but not only, relating to anti-money laundering compliance. The fact that Claritas was spearheaded by three already accomplished women – Elisabeth Lees, Katie Pearson and Justine Plenkiewicz – is only one reason the ladies believe the law firm is set apart from others in Cayman. BOUTIQUE BENEFITS Katie, previously partner in the litigation and insolvency department of global offshore law firm Harneys, saw the benefits for clients in approaching more boutique firms. “There are a lot of benefits to being part of a global organisation, but for litigators there are downsides as well,” says Katie. “For example, because those firms have so many clients you have to turn down a lot of work due to conflicts of interest and often can’t act against large financial institutions.” It is for this reason Katie says, that partners in London and the US often leave big firms to set up litigation boutique firms. “No one had done that in Cayman,” she continues. “And, given the volume of high-profile litigation that is heard in the Grand Court here, I thought there was an obvious gap in the market for an independent, conflict-free litigation firm.” Co-founder Elisabeth also values the personal benefits that shaping a boutique firm from conception has afforded her and the others who started the company. “I decided that I wanted to be in control of the type of work I undertook and to provide excellent and tailored services,” she explains. “I wanted to ensure that the work and the company ethics were aligned with my own values and also with a more modern approach. Additionally, I wanted the flexibility to be able to work from home or from other countries, as required.” BARRIERS As with most industries, there are still barriers for women in the legal profession, particularly those balancing careers with child-rearing or caregiving, notes Katie. “Law firms are very conservative, and many of the structures and processes they follow have been in place for decades, and date from a time when there were few, if any, women at the senior levels of the profession, and when there was certainly no expectation that you would be a lawyer and also have significant caregiving responsibilities (because you would have a wife at home to handle all of that),” she says. “They were literally designed 'by men for men'. While progress is being made, I think this can still be seen in expectations around billable hours, attitudes towards remote and flexible working, and partner compensation models.” While Elisabeth says that for the most part she has been treated fairly and equally, she does notice the inequality in the profession. “The challenges manifest themselves in more subtle ways,” she says. “For example, at the International Bar Association Women Lawyers’ Committee it was shocking how many female lawyers, often partners at top firms, had been subject to some form of inappropriate comment or touching during their careers.” Progress is evident, however. “I am delighted that we have very recently had our first female Court of Appeal judge appointed and, of course, our first female chief justice,” Elisabeth points out. “In the Cayman Islands, we also have lots of female role models. The first director of public prosecutions was female and my previous boss Cheryll Richards K.C. now sits as a judge of the Grand Court.” BALANCE Alongside their regular work days is time spent with family and community involvement. One of the firm’s core values is inclusion and, as such, it has sponsored organisations with a focus on this, including Inclusion Cayman and the Cayman Youth Choir (which is open to children for free), as well as a women empowerment conference, encouraging adolescent females with their career paths. Katie also sits on the education committee of Cayman’s Restructuring and Insolvency Specialists Association, while Elisabeth does the same for the Cayman Islands Compliance Association, as well as being deputy chair of the Health Appeals Tribunal. “These [positions] offer opportunities to give back, and to be involved in the community,” says Elisabeth, who admits that balance is something she strives for, but finds difficult to achieve. “I think the key is to be present in whatever you are doing,” she says. “That is, to be present for work and not worrying about family responsibilities and, equally, to be present with my two young children when I am with them.” Katie also has the challenge of balancing work and family life with two primary-school aged daughters. “I am absolutely ruthless with my time and say no to a lot of things because I hate the stress of being over-committed,” she says. Legal clarity Katie Pearson, Elisabeth Lees and Justine Plenkiewicz. Elisabeth Lees and Katie Pearson. Phot os: Jane t Jar cho w . BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTON Female-led law firm Claritas.CayWoman 28 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Afemale-founded law firm is unique in Cayman’s well-populated legal landscape. However, the ladies of Claritas Legal Limited did not let that deter them when they launched in 2022 off the back of sister firm Claritas Compliance Limited. The legal arm offers litigation, insolvency and regulatory legal advice, while the compliance arm offers regulatory compliance advice, largely, but not only, relating to anti-money laundering compliance. The fact that Claritas was spearheaded by three already accomplished women – Elisabeth Lees, Katie Pearson and Justine Plenkiewicz – is only one reason the ladies believe the law firm is set apart from others in Cayman. BOUTIQUE BENEFITS Katie, previously partner in the litigation and insolvency department of global offshore law firm Harneys, saw the benefits for clients in approaching more boutique firms. “There are a lot of benefits to being part of a global organisation, but for litigators there are downsides as well,” says Katie. “For example, because those firms have so many clients you have to turn down a lot of work due to conflicts of interest and often can’t act against large financial institutions.” It is for this reason Katie says, that partners in London and the US often leave big firms to set up litigation boutique firms. “No one had done that in Cayman,” she continues. “And, given the volume of high-profile litigation that is heard in the Grand Court here, I thought there was an obvious gap in the market for an independent, conflict-free litigation firm.” Co-founder Elisabeth also values the personal benefits that shaping a boutique firm from conception has afforded her and the others who started the company. “I decided that I wanted to be in control of the type of work I undertook and to provide excellent and tailored services,” she explains. “I wanted to ensure that the work and the company ethics were aligned with my own values and also with a more modern approach. Additionally, I wanted the flexibility to be able to work from home or from other countries, as required.” BARRIERS As with most industries, there are still barriers for women in the legal profession, particularly those balancing careers with child-rearing or caregiving, notes Katie. “Law firms are very conservative, and many of the structures and processes they follow have been in place for decades, and date from a time when there were few, if any, women at the senior levels of the profession, and when there was certainly no expectation that you would be a lawyer and also have significant caregiving responsibilities (because you would have a wife at home to handle all of that),” she says. “They were literally designed 'by men for men'. While progress is being made, I think this can still be seen in expectations around billable hours, attitudes towards remote and flexible working, and partner compensation models.” While Elisabeth says that for the most part she has been treated fairly and equally, she does notice the inequality in the profession. “The challenges manifest themselves in more subtle ways,” she says. “For example, at the International Bar Association Women Lawyers’ Committee it was shocking how many female lawyers, often partners at top firms, had been subject to some form of inappropriate comment or touching during their careers.” Progress is evident, however. “I am delighted that we have very recently had our first female Court of Appeal judge appointed and, of course, our first female chief justice,” Elisabeth points out. “In the Cayman Islands, we also have lots of female role models. The first director of public prosecutions was female and my previous boss Cheryll Richards K.C. now sits as a judge of the Grand Court.” BALANCE Alongside their regular work days is time spent with family and community involvement. One of the firm’s core values is inclusion and, as such, it has sponsored organisations with a focus on this, including Inclusion Cayman and the Cayman Youth Choir (which is open to children for free), as well as a women empowerment conference, encouraging adolescent females with their career paths. Katie also sits on the education committee of Cayman’s Restructuring and Insolvency Specialists Association, while Elisabeth does the same for the Cayman Islands Compliance Association, as well as being deputy chair of the Health Appeals Tribunal. “These [positions] offer opportunities to give back, and to be involved in the community,” says Elisabeth, who admits that balance is something she strives for, but finds difficult to achieve. “I think the key is to be present in whatever you are doing,” she says. “That is, to be present for work and not worrying about family responsibilities and, equally, to be present with my two young children when I am with them.” Katie also has the challenge of balancing work and family life with two primary-school aged daughters. “I am absolutely ruthless with my time and say no to a lot of things because I hate the stress of being over-committed,” she says. Legal clarity Katie Pearson, Elisabeth Lees and Justine Plenkiewicz. Elisabeth Lees and Katie Pearson. Phot os: Jane t Jar cho w . BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTON Female-led law firm Claritas. CayWoman 29 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Legal clarity Elisabeth Lees and Katie Pearson. CayWoman 28 FRIDAY, 8 MARCH 2024 Afemale-founded law firm is unique in Cayman’s well-populated legal landscape. However, the ladies of Claritas Legal Limited did not let that deter them when they launched in 2022 off the back of sister firm Claritas Compliance Limited. The legal arm offers litigation, insolvency and regulatory legal advice, while the compliance arm offers regulatory compliance advice, largely, but not only, relating to anti-money laundering compliance. The fact that Claritas was spearheaded by three already accomplished women – Elisabeth Lees, Katie Pearson and Justine Plenkiewicz – is only one reason the ladies believe the law firm is set apart from others in Cayman. BOUTIQUE BENEFITS Katie, previously partner in the litigation and insolvency department of global offshore law firm Harneys, saw the benefits for clients in approaching more boutique firms. “There are a lot of benefits to being part of a global organisation, but for litigators there are downsides as well,” says Katie. “For example, because those firms have so many clients you have to turn down a lot of work due to conflicts of interest and often can’t act against large financial institutions.” It is for this reason Katie says, that partners in London and the US often leave big firms to set up litigation boutique firms. “No one had done that in Cayman,” she continues. “And, given the volume of high-profile litigation that is heard in the Grand Court here, I thought there was an obvious gap in the market for an independent, conflict-free litigation firm.” Co-founder Elisabeth also values the personal benefits that shaping a boutique firm from conception has afforded her and the others who started the company. “I decided that I wanted to be in control of the type of work I undertook and to provide excellent and tailored services,” she explains. “I wanted to ensure that the work and the company ethics were aligned with my own values and also with a more modern approach. Additionally, I wanted the flexibility to be able to work from home or from other countries, as required.” BARRIERS As with most industries, there are still barriers for women in the legal profession, particularly those balancing careers with child-rearing or caregiving, notes Katie. “Law firms are very conservative, and many of the structures and processes they follow have been in place for decades, and date from a time when there were few, if any, women at the senior levels of the profession, and when there was certainly no expectation that you would be a lawyer and also have significant caregiving responsibilities (because you would have a wife at home to handle all of that),” she says. “They were literally designed 'by men for men'. While progress is being made, I think this can still be seen in expectations around billable hours, attitudes towards remote and flexible working, and partner compensation models.” While Elisabeth says that for the most part she has been treated fairly and equally, she does notice the inequality in the profession. “The challenges manifest themselves in more subtle ways,” she says. “For example, at the International Bar Association Women Lawyers’ Committee it was shocking how many female lawyers, often partners at top firms, had been subject to some form of inappropriate comment or touching during their careers.” Progress is evident, however. “I am delighted that we have very recently had our first female Court of Appeal judge appointed and, of course, our first female chief justice,” Elisabeth points out. “In the Cayman Islands, we also have lots of female role models. The first director of public prosecutions was female and my previous boss Cheryll Richards K.C. now sits as a judge of the Grand Court.” BALANCE Alongside their regular work days is time spent with family and community involvement. One of the firm’s core values is inclusion and, as such, it has sponsored organisations with a focus on this, including Inclusion Cayman and the Cayman Youth Choir (which is open to children for free), as well as a women empowerment conference, encouraging adolescent females with their career paths. Katie also sits on the education committee of Cayman’s Restructuring and Insolvency Specialists Association, while Elisabeth does the same for the Cayman Islands Compliance Association, as well as being deputy chair of the Health Appeals Tribunal. “These [positions] offer opportunities to give back, and to be involved in the community,” says Elisabeth, who admits that balance is something she strives for, but finds difficult to achieve. “I think the key is to be present in whatever you are doing,” she says. “That is, to be present for work and not worrying about family responsibilities and, equally, to be present with my two young children when I am with them.” Katie also has the challenge of balancing work and family life with two primary-school aged daughters. “I am absolutely ruthless with my time and say no to a lot of things because I hate the stress of being over-committed,” she says. Legal clarity Katie Pearson, Elisabeth Lees and Justine Plenkiewicz. Elisabeth Lees and Katie Pearson. Phot os: Jane t Jar cho w . BY LAURA MUNYARD DURSTON Female-led law firm Claritas. Dr. Annette Stephenson 946-91714 925-5836 (Whatsapp) info@caymanhearingcenter.com www.caymanhearingcenter.com Located at Alissta Towers: 85 North Sound Road, GT, Grand Cayman Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday 8:30-5:00 Friday 8:30-3:00 Dr. Annette Stephenson is the fi rst Caymanian Doctor of Audiology and holds Board Certifi cation from the American Board of Audiology. In 2007, she founded Cayman Hearing Center, revolutionizing hearing healthcare in the Cayman Islands. As an educator, she conducts informative seminars for both physicians and patients. Dr. Stephenson’s clinical approach emphasizes personalized care, creating a reassuring atmosphere. She received the Emerging Pioneer Award from the Cayman Islands Ministry of Health for her signifi cant contributions to healthcare. Her journey is one of relentless pursuit, expertise, and compassion, shaping audiological services’ future and her profession’s legacy. FEATURED PROFESSIONAL For Karen Cole, following her passion has meant finding a niche market and a career she loves. After years of working in the financial services industry as a certified public accountant, she decided to launch her own business. Karen is the owner of Peace of Property, which offers bespoke accounting and bookkeeping services as well as property management. “I really enjoy meeting people and getting to know them,” she says. “I feed off people’s energy.” Karen began her career in her native Jamaica as a trainee auditor in 2002 at PricewaterhouseCoopers. She became a certified accountant in 2005, moving to Cayman to work at Ernst & Young, and later in the captive insurance industry. While enjoying success in her career, Karen felt something was missing – connecting with clients. “I really enjoy interacting with people versus having to always be sitting in front of Excel spreadsheets all day,” she says. EXPANDING HORIZONS That’s when she decided to broaden her horizons and work in other fields, including real estate development, hospitality, tourism and wholesale/ retail in beers, wines and spirits. “I really thrived because I got to interact with so many people whilst still performing my accounting duties,” she says. When the pandemic hit, Karen decided it was time to start her own business. Combining her background in accounting and strata management, she launched Peace of Property in 2021. The business caters to a niche market, offering an affordable option for accounting and bookkeeping services for property owners, stratas and micro-businesses, as well as property management services for residential properties and stratas. Her straightforward advice for other women looking to follow their passion: “Just start from somewhere – ignore the outside noise,” she says. KAREN COLE: A PASSION FOR PEOPLE AND PROPERTY Karen Cole SPONSORED CONTENTNext >