Older Persons Month ambassadors named

The Department of Children and Family Services has named the two individuals who will serve as ambassadors for the 2023 Older Persons Month, which is dedicated to honouring and empowering older adults in the Cayman Islands throughout October.

This year’s theme, ‘Aging Your Way’, focuses on empowering seniors to lead fulfilling lives on their own terms, according to a Ministry of Social Development press release. The ambassadors for this important celebration are Annie Alsa Multon and Elsa Annie Rose Scott, both of whom have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the welfare of older persons in Cayman.

Annie Alsa Multon

Annie Multon. – Photo: supplied

Annie Alsa Multon, hailing from North West Point, West Bay, is a prominent advocate for older persons. She played a pivotal role in developing the Cayman Islands Older Persons Policy, focusing on independence. She’s actively involved in amending the Cayman Islands Older Persons Act, driven by her unique perspective as an older person.

In her distinguished career, Multon has chaired the Labour Relations Board, contributed to tourism and education development committees, and received prestigious awards for her service. She’s also a founding member of the Business and Professional Women’s Club and has been recognised internationally for her contributions.

Elsa Annie Rose Scott

Elsa Annie Rose Scott. – Photo: supplied

Elsa Annie Rose Scott, originally from Spot Bay, Cayman Brac, is a dedicated supporter of older persons. With seven adult children, she resides in Cayman Brac and has achieved a certificate in social services from the University of the West Indies. During her 27-year tenure at the DCFS, Scott initiated programmes like the Senior Citizens Social Club, Adopt a Grandparent, Sew-n-So Ladies Club, and Bridging The Gap – A Widows Support Group, all aimed at enhancing the well-being of older citizens.

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Scott is known for her community involvement and is a board member of the Council of Older Persons. She is recognised for her contributions to Cayman’s seafaring heritage and her role as a justice of the peace. Her dedication to community service and her empathy for the elderly make her a prime example of ‘service above self’.

André Ebanks, Minister for Social Development, acknowledged the significant roles played by Multon and Scott. He underscored their invaluable contributions to the celebration and the embodiment of this year’s theme.

DCFS Director Paulinda Mendoza-Williams explained the importance of the ambassadors.

“In recognizing Annie Alsa Multon and Elsa Annie Rose Scott as our Ambassadors for Older Persons Month, we pay homage to individuals whose unwavering commitment to our older citizens is truly commendable,” she said in the press release.

“Their dedication, leadership, and boundless compassion resonate deeply with the essence of ‘Aging Your Way’, which emphasises empowering older individuals to lead lives on their terms, filled with fulfilment and dignity.”

Tamara Ebanks, ministry of social development chief officer, commended the DCFS for their tireless efforts in organising Older Persons Month.

“The DCFS team ensure that our older citizens receive the recognition and support they deserve which is a testament [to] every employee’s commitment to the well-being of our community. Together, we celebrate the wisdom and experiences of our older generation, and together, we work towards a society where every older person can age with grace and dignity,” Ebanks said.

For more information and to participate in upcoming Older Persons Month events, contact the DCFS at 949-0290 in Grand Cayman or 948-2331 in Cayman Brac.