Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in Compass Media’s CayWoman special publication.
It’s a milestone year for the Business and Professional Women’s Club of Grand Cayman (BPW).
The stalwart organisation is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, marking five decades of championing women’s rights and professional development in the Cayman Islands – and beyond.
“BPW has not only opened doors for women in business and professional life, but it has also built bridges in the community, leaving a lasting imprint of empowerment, service and progress,” says Cheryl Myles, BPW past-president and current second vice-president.
“Over the years, it has created pathways for women to step into leadership roles by offering mentorship, training and networking opportunities.”
A voice for women
BPW was one of the earliest voices for women in Cayman. Its advocacy laid the groundwork for broader awareness and action before other organisations emerged.
“It is very encouraging to see how organisations like the Family Resource Centre, 100 Women in Finance, 100+ Women Who Care and Women in Blockchain are making a huge positive impact in the Cayman Islands,” notes president Andrea Williams. “Before these organisations were established, however, one of the few voices for women was BPW.”
The group tackled such issues as domestic abuse, gender inequality, and sexual harassment.
“BPW members were relentless in making sure these issues were brought to the forefront and not ignored,” says Andrea.
Indeed, the club has played a pivotal role in shaping local legislation, championing initiatives such as anti-stalking and sexual harassment laws, and raising awareness of domestic violence.
BPW was a driving force behind the establishment of such groups as the Cayman Islands Crisis Centre and the Women’s Resource Centre, now the Family Resource Centre.
Milestone moments
A group of influential women established the club including national hero Sybil McLaughlin and Angela Martins, who served as its first president.
The club was chartered in 1976. Membership over the years has included many prominent Caymanian women, among them Edna Moyle, Joy Ann Rollins, Cissy Delapenha, Beverly Banks, Lucille Seymour, Joy Basdeo, Annie Multon, and Juliana O’Connor-Connolly.
The Cayman chapter is part of an international network spanning more than 100 countries, with UN status. This global reach has enabled the club to contribute to international advocacy, including lobbying efforts that led to the creation of the UN Commission on the Status of Women.
This year, it is hosting the Regional Conference for the Americas and the Caribbean. Additionally, members will attend the Professionals Blueprint Summit in Dominica, and BPW will be represented at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York.
Golden anniversary events are in the works including a special lecture series, cultural showcases, and the annual women’s golf scramble fundraiser.
Catalyst for change
At a BPW meeting last year, founding member Annie Multon spoke of the club’s enduring legacy, underscoring its pivotal role in shaping Cayman’s progress.
“When we started this journey nearly 50 years ago, our vision was simple: to ensure women had a seat at the table,” she said at that time. “Today, I see that vision alive in every member who carries the torch forward.”
Andrea has been a pioneering force in the club, joining in 1998 after attending a meeting of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence. She was introduced to community leaders and learned about the urgent need for a crisis centre to support victims of domestic violence.
“They told stories of hiding victims in local hotels and private homes, and even being battered themselves,” she recalls. “It was a real eye-opener for me, both terrifying and inspiring.”
To raise funds, Andrea spearheaded BPW’s women’s golf scramble that same year, overcoming scepticism at the time from golf pros on-island who told her that “women don’t golf in Cayman”.
Today, the sell-out event raises enough funds to cover most of BPW’s annual projects and scholarships, while fostering networking and fun.
Grassroots advocacy
Andrea, an attorney, appreciates the non-profit’s grassroots nature and the opportunity to collaborate with inspiring Caymanian women.
“BPW has provided me with the opportunity to get know the heart of the Cayman community,” she says. Cheryl, a pension analyst, has been involved with BPW since 2010, dedicating her time and talents to advancing women’s professional growth, strengthening community connections, and advocating for meaningful change.
“I joined because it aligned perfectly with my passions,” she says. “I can use my skills in outreach and leadership to empower others while continuing to grow myself.”
Building a legacy
BPW’s history reflects decades of dedication to advancing women in business, education, and leadership, while also contributing to broader social progress. As the organisation continues to expand its reach, it is poised to carry on its legacy of uplifting women and nurturing future female leaders for decades to come.
“For me, the greatest accomplishment has been seeing how our collective efforts have empowered women and enriched the community,” says Cheryl.
BPW signature initiatives
- Silent Witness March – honouring victims of abuse and bullying.
- 16 Days of Activism – raising awareness against gender-based violence.
- Legal Befrienders – offering pro bono legal aid to victims.
- Annie Huldah Bodden lecture series – featuring global thought-leaders.
- Prison outreach – supporting women in custody with dignity and hope.
- Back-to-School uniform campaign – providing school uniforms and supplies to those in need.
- Advocacy – advancing gender equality, community partnerships and legislative reforms.
- Educational scholarships – providing financial assistance to young women in pursuing their goals.
- Mentorship programmes – assisting women in overcoming employment barriers.
- Youth engagement – supporting Junior Achievement to encourage youth entrepreneurship and partnering with the Alex Panton Foundation on its annual youth mental health symposium.
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