NEWS
CCMI Now Accepting Nominations for People’s Choice Award
The Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) is now accepting nominations for the second annual People’s Choice Award. The People’s Choice Award is a full ‘audience participation’ effort, nominated and voted on by members of the public. First implemented as part of CCMI’s 20th anniversary celebrations in 2018, the People’s Choice Award was an exciting way to learn about the various efforts members in the community contribute in a positive way toward ocean and coral reef health.
Dr Carrie Manfrino, President and Research Director of CCMI, is excited to again acknowledge important efforts of people in our community through the second annual People’s Choice Awards. “We love learning about the individuals and companies that are making a difference to our coral reefs and oceans. At CCMI, our aim is to find solutions to declining coral reefs through research, conservation and education, but we do not work alone. Presenting these awards allows us to shine the spotlight on others who value our marine environment and coral reefs.”
In 2019, CCMI will recognise two People’s Choice Award winners: an Individual and Company/Organisation. Nominees should have made significant positive impacts on the marine environment, whether through a project, programme or event. They should demonstrate leadership and commitment to bringing about a transformative impact on the ocean habitats, especially coral reefs, in the Cayman Islands, from January 1, 2018 – June 30, 2019. Last year, Claire Hughes was selected in the public vote as the winner for the work she does with Plastic Free Cayman.
Anyone can submit a nomination to CCMI between 2nd July and 14th August 2019. The form is an online submission and will take just a short time to complete. After the nomination period has closed, CCMI will contact nominees to confirm their acceptance of the nomination. Voting for the winners will take place online from 16th – 29th September.
The winners of the People’s Choice Award and the Healthy Reefs Challenge will be announced at the annual Festival of Seas Awards and Gala event on 16th November 2019, at Grand Old House.
Dr. Manfrino is excited to see who is nominated for the award this year. “The People’s Choice Award is an important opportunity to identify inspired leaders, bold innovators, creative thinkers and those who give generously and tirelessly of their time and talents. We are fortunate to live in a place with so many individuals and organisations who push us to think bigger, reach further and strive for greater solutions to protecting and restoring coral reefs. Because we can save coral reefs, if we act now.”
To learn more about Festival of Seas and to reserve your tickets, please click here.