On June 4th, 2026, the Rotary Club of St. Vincent celebrated a major milestone by hosting the 25th Annual George Phillips Excellence Awards Ceremony. The event honored exceptional Fourth Form students from 27 secondary schools across St. Vincent and the Grenadines, recognizing their academic achievements and personal growth.
Guided by the theme, “Excellence in Every Step: Celebrating Progress, Growth and Continuous Development,” the awardees were chosen based on a comprehensive set of criteria. Students were evaluated on their academic performance, discipline, leadership qualities, extracurricular involvement, and their ability to maintain a balanced approach to school life.
The prestigious awards are named after George Phillips, the Charter President of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, carrying on his lasting legacy of encouraging student excellence and youth development over the past 25 years.
Under the guidance of Club President Felicia Cumberbatch and Director of Vocational Service Troy Valcin, the gathering brought together students, educators, parents, sponsors, and Rotarians. President Cumberbatch emphasized the critical need to invest in today’s youth, noting that they are the future innovators, contributors, and leaders of the nation. The ceremony was hosted by Master of Ceremonies Shane Cadogan, a past award recipient and Sports Ambassador, whose leadership highlighted the program’s long-term success in nurturing young Vincentians.
Attendees were treated to an inspiring keynote address by Xavier Stapleton, Chef and Owner of Cultured, who urged the students to embrace their talents and pursue their goals with determination. Senior Education Officer Mrs. Mavis Findlay-Joseph also delivered remarks, emphasizing the importance of education, skills development, and preparation for future opportunities.
The successful 25th-anniversary celebration was heavily supported by local businesses. Longstanding sponsors Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG) and FLOW delivered remarks reaffirming their dedication to education and youth development. The event was also made possible by a wide array of sponsors, including Bequia Express, ACADO SVG Limited, BDO, Massy Stores, Coreas Hazells Inc., Cream of the Islands Flour – ECGC, KOSCAB, St. Vincent Brewery, Jo Ché, NJ Decor, Global Distributors Ltd., and Facey Trading SVG Ltd.
As it celebrates its silver jubilee, the Rotary Club of St. Vincent continues its enduring commitment to service, education, and empowering the next generation of leaders.