Making Waves Awards
Proudly Celebrating
One Community,
Countless Waves
Celebrating Caymanians Overseas
Making Waves Award winners receive recognition from across the globe. From awards ceremonies to international news outlets, the winners have thousands of eyes on their outstanding achievements.
We look forward to supporting and celebrating those who have excelled in their field whilst abroad, specifically those who continually strive to promote our community and share “Caymankind” globally.
🌊 Introducing the People’s Choice Award
We’re excited to announce a brand-new element to the Making Waves Awards 2026 — the People’s Choice Award!
This special award gives the public a unique opportunity to have a voice in the celebration of excellence across our community. For the first time, members of the public are invited to cast their vote and help decide one standout winner from among all nominees shortlisted across our nine award categories.
Whether it’s someone whose impact has inspired you, someone whose story moved you, or someone whose contributions deserve extra recognition — now is your chance to show them your support!
📣 How it works:
After the shortlist is announced, public voting will open on our website. You’ll be able to choose one nominee from across all categories to receive the People’s Choice Award, and the nominee with the most votes will be celebrated at the Making Waves Awards ceremony.
Stay tuned for details on how to vote — and make sure your choice counts!
How to Nominate
Nominations open on the 1st of March 2026. The submission deadline will be midnight on 13th April 2026 and any entries received after this time may not be considered.
Following the application, the nominee will be contacted by the organiser to confirm their eligibility and may be asked to provide further documentary information and contact information for referees to validate their application.
To be eligible, nominees must be Caymanian and living overseas for no less than 12 months through to 13th April 2026.
Students in full time education living overseas are eligible. Students must have permission from a parent or legal guardian who will be required to provide their consent.
Nominators incentive:
- Entered into prize draw to win a flight to visit their Making Waves nominee or to fly back home to the Cayman Islands *T&C’s apply
- Make a Caymankind act to highlight a Caymanian going above and beyond
- Invitation to the 2026 Making Waves Ceremony held in Grand Cayman
- Be a part of the Making Waves movement and help us shine a light on our overseas talent.
Winners win:
- Caymanite trophy made by Horacio Esteban who has produced work gifted to the Royal family
- NEW! $500 KYD bursary to contribute to winners professional development
- Publicity and exclusive media features
- Invitations to the 2026 Making Waves Ceremony held in Grand Cayman (additional tickets for family and friends included)
- Opportunities to mentor upcoming talent and be a community role model
Sponsorship
If you would like more information about the Making Waves Awards, or would like to discuss sponsorship opportunities, please email makingwaves@caymanconnection.org
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