Simone Foster Named 2026 Unsung Hero
Simone Foster has been named CIBC Caribbean VI's 2026 Unsung Hero for her dedication to supporting neurodivergent individuals through Lemonade BVI. Longtime community advocate Daphne Stoutt was also celebrated as runner-up during the award luncheon at Maria's by the Sea.
Community champion Simone Foster has been named CIBC Caribbean VI's 2026 Unsung Hero, receiving a 5,000 dollar award in recognition of her tireless advocacy and service across the Territory. The presentation took place during a celebration luncheon held at Maria's by the Sea in Tortola.
Foster was recognized for her transformative work through Lemonade BVI, an initiative dedicated to fostering greater awareness, inclusion, and resources for neurodivergent individuals. Accepting the honor, Foster emphasized that the achievement represents a collective effort, noting that it takes an entire community to meet the needs of its people and turn life's difficult moments into positive change.
Vernecia Holder, Head of International Corporate Banking and Coordinator for the Unsung Hero 2026 programme, commended the honorees for their quiet dedication. She highlighted that CIBC Caribbean seeks to spotlight individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and empathy to uplift others without seeking personal recognition.
The 2026 initiative marks the second consecutive year since the bank revived its flagship community programme in 2025. Also honored during the luncheon was Daphne Stoutt, who was named the 2026 runner-up and received a 2,500 dollar award. Stoutt was celebrated for her enduring record of assisting some of the Virgin Islands' most vulnerable residents and families facing extreme hardship.
In an emotional address, Stoutt shared the daily realities of grassroots outreach in the Virgin Islands, noting that while resources are often limited, recognition through initiatives like the Unsung Hero programme provides crucial encouragement to keep serving those in need. The annual Unsung Hero programme continues to play a meaningful role in the British Virgin Islands by celebrating unsung community leaders whose selfless contributions strengthen the social fabric of the Territory.
Primary source: VINO