© 2023 Burger King Corporation. Limited time only.© 2023 Burger King Corporation. Limited time only. $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 25-31 August 2023 Family in home invasion terror Page 6 UK revokes Bush’s OBE Page 10 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 25-31 August 2023 cayman compass Your most trusted news source Baby boom 25% increase in birth rate leads to nursery shortage Pages 28-29 Established 1965 2023 FREE INSIDE Skylar and Vanjae overcome COVID controversy Page 7Matinees (matinee price before 6pm) • Seniors $9.00 (Mon-Fri before 6pm) Additional charges apply per 3D/VIP tickets 640-FILM (640-3456) Cayman Cinema@cbcinema6cbcinema6 SATURDAY NIGHT: For your viewing pleasure, minors under the age of 18 will not be admitted to any lm starting after 6pm, unless accompanied by their parent. BARBIE (PG-13) (FRI-SAT, MON-THURS) 1:10 | 4:30 VIP | 6:40 | 9:40 VIP (SUN) 3:55 | 4:15 VIP | 7:10 | 7:15 VIP | 9:50 | 9:55 VIP BLUE BEETLE (PG-13) (FRI-SAT, MON-THURS) 12:30 VIP | 3:45 | 6:45 VIP | 9:40 (SUN) 3:45 | 6:45 VIP | 9:40 GRAN TURISMO (PG-13) (FRI-SAT, MON, WED-THURS) 1:00 VIP | 4:00 | 7:00 VIP | 9:30 (SUN) 3:30 | 3:55 VIP | 6:35 | 7:00 VIP | 9:40 | 10:05 VIP (TUES) 1:00 VIP | 4:00 | 9:30 MEG 2: THE TRENCH (PG-13) (FRI-SAT, MON-THURS) 12:50 | 3:35 VIP | 6:45 | 9:50 VIP (SUN) 3:35 VIP | 6:45 | 9:40 VIP MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - DEAD RECKONING - PART ONE (PG-13) (FRI-SAT) 12:40 (SUN) 7:30 (MON-THURS) 12:40 | 7:30 RETRIBUTION (R) (FRI-SAT, MON-THURS) 1:30 VIP | 4:15 | 7:20 VIP | 9:55 STRAYS (R) (FRI-SAT, MON-THURS) 1:35 | 4:10 VIP | 7:05 | 10:15 VIP TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: MUTANT MAYHEM (PG) (FRI, SAT-THURS) 4:30 WHAT’S PLAYING THIS WEEK KIDS CLUB WALL-E SATURDAY 10AM VIP AVAILABLE (G) CLASSICS THE WIZARD OF OZ (1939) TUESDAY 7PM VIP (PG) KIDS CLUB THE BOSS BABY SATURDAY 10AM VIP AVAILABLE (PG) FIND US ONLINE Caymancompass.com Facebook.com/Caycompass cayman_compass@cayCompassCayman Compass PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY: Cayman Compass Ltd. Compass Centre, Shedden Road, George Town, Cayman Islands SEND US YOUR VIEWS OR NEWS: P.O. Box 1365 Grand Cayman, KY1-1108 Cayman Islands Telephone: (345) 815-0095 • Email: newsdesk@compassmedia.ky ADVERTISE WITH US: T: (345) 949-5111 • E: sales@compassmedia.ky • W: caymancompass.com weather Friday Forecast FORECAST Expected scattered thunderstorms SEA STATE Slight with a wave height of 1 to 3 feet. WINDS East at 5 knots or less. 90°F HIGH 78°F LOW NEWS EDITOR CAROLINE JAMES ISSUES EDITOR JAMES WHITTAKER HEAD OF SALES CHERYL BIRCHGILLIES news in brief One killed in early morning crash A man was killed in a single- vehicle collision along the Esterley Tibbetts Highway in the early morning of 24 Aug. The Cayman Compass understands the incident occurred around 2:15am. The identity of the crash victim had not been released as of press time. In the aftermath of the crash, the road running between the Camana Bay roundabout and the A. L. Thompson roundabout was temporarily closed while police offi cers attended the scene, leading to traffi c gridlock. This is the sixth road fatality in the Cayman Islands in 2023. New education staffer under investigation for ‘serious sexual assault’ A newly hired school support staff member has been bailed pending inquiries following an allegation of serious sexual assault made against him by a teenage girl, police have confi rmed. Police said offi cers received a report of the allegation made against the man by the teen who was visiting the Cayman Islands. He was subsequently arrested. “RCIPS Protective Services initiated an investigation and have interviewed the accused male and other persons connected with the case,” a police spokesperson said. The man has been bailed while inquiries continue. The victim has since left the Cayman Islands and returned home to family, police said. The Education Ministry and the Department of Education Services, in a joint statement on 18 Aug., said, following a report about the “misconduct” of the newly recruited support staff member, the matter was referred to the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub for investigation “in line with the protocol for addressing child protection allegations involving staff”. The member of staff implicated has also been removed from the school pending the outcome of the investigation, the statement said. Five arrested in cocaine bust on fi shing boat Five foreign nationals were arrested by Customs and Border Control offi cers after a “signifi cant sum” of money and four packages of cocaine were seized on their fi shing vessel on 20 Aug. Customs and Border Control, in a 22 Aug. statement, said the fi ve men were on board an inbound commercial fi shing vessel fl agged on Sunday, 20 Aug. Their nationalities have not been released. CBC declined to provide the amount of cash seized and the total weight of the drugs, saying the investigation is in its “infancy stages”. CBC said the fi shing vessel was initially boarded by Cayman Islands Coast Guard offi cers and then escorted to the George Town port. “The in-ward escort allowed for carrying out required vessel clearance protocols as established in the Customs and Border Control Act,” the statement from the border control authority said. The men were arrested in connection with the undeclared money and the importation of a controlled drug. Robinson murder accused plead not guilty Three men accused of stabbing to death Randy Kelsey Robinson have all denied the killing. Appearing before the Grand Court via video link, on Friday, 18 Aug., Shaun Antonio Jackson, Matthew Stefan Glasgow and Jonathan Alexander Woodhouse each entered not guilty pleas to the charge of murder. The charges stem from a fi ght at Caribe Café on Shedden Road, George Town, in the early hours of of Friday, 5 May 2023. Robinson, 37, was taken to the Cayman Islands Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Jackson, Glasgow and Woodhouse also face a charge of wounding with intent in relation to another victim who was injured during the incident. All three men, who have been in custody since May, are expected to remain in prison until their planned month-long jury trial, which is slated to begin on 14 Nov. Man changes fatal collision plea to guilty The Grand Court trial of a man who killed an American nurse has been called off, after he changed his plea to guilty months ahead of the trial Appearing before the Grand Court on Friday, 18 Aug., Kesley Martinez Ebanks, 27, was re- arraigned in relation to a charge of causing death by dangerous driving, which he admitted. The charge stems from a collision which occurred after 1am on Sunday, 23 May 2021, on South Church Street in the vicinity of Palm Springs condos. Two cars, a Changan CS75 and a Honda Fit, were travelling in opposite directions when they collided. The victim, Kiarah Shikale Perkins, 32, a US citizen and Cayman resident, who was driving the Honda, was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Cayman Islands Hospital. Martinez-Ebanks, who was driving the Changan, and three other occupants of the vehicles, were hospitalised after the crash. In March this year, he denied the charges of causing death by dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm. At the hearing on 18 Aug., at which he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, the second charge was not put to him. No sentencing date has been set and Martinez-Ebanks was bailed to return to court next month. Lightning strike causes small fi re at port The port in George Town was struck by lightning on 22 Aug., causing a small fi re in a panel box that resulted in power to the Guard House being lost. The police and Fire Service offi cers responded to the scene and the fi re was “quickly contained”, the Port Authority said, in a statement following the incident. No injuries were reported as a result of the fi re or lightning strike. Investigators on the scene of the 24 Aug. collision that claimed the life of one man. - Photo: Taneos Ramsay cayman compass 2 N news WEEKLY, 2531 AUGUST 2023cayman compass 3 WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 20231234567 89 101112 13 1415 16 171819 20 212223 2425 1234567 89 101112 13 1415 16 171819 20 212223 2425 ACROSS 1 Given an unsuitable role (7) 5 Copper/zinc alloy (5) 8 Full to capacity (3-6) 9 Form into a knot (3) 10 Impetuous (4) 12 Excessive force (8) 14 Unpleasantly damp (6) 15 Inform (6) 17 Incompletely (2,6) 18 Break suddenly (4) 21 Is able (3) 22 Humbly (3,2,4) 24 Vertical (5) 25 Justifiably (7) DOWN 1 Greater in extent (5) 2 Total amount (3) 3 Absent (4) 4 Deceive (4,2) 5 Ill feeling (3,5) 6 Consideration (9) 7 Stage-setting (7) 11 Notable transformation (3,6) 13 Unquestioning (8) 14 Small partitioned space (7) 16 Fit of anger (6) 19 Field for growing rice (5) 20 Warm and comfortable (4) 23 Having a tendency (3) The Compass Crossword Puzzle The Compass universal kakuro Puzzle 17405 The numbers in the black cells are clues. Numbers above the slash are across clues. Number below the slash are down clues. The goal is to enter digits 1 - 9 in the white cells to add up to the number clues. You cannot enter any digit more than once when adding up to clue. TODAY'S SOLUTIONS Puzzle 17405 ACROSS: 1 Miscast, 5 Brass, 8 Jam-packed, 9 Tie, 10 Rash, 12 Violence, 14 Clammy, 15 Notify, 17 By halves, 18 Snap, 21 Can, 22 Cap in hand, 24 Erect, 25 Rightly. DOWN: 1 Major, 2 Sum, 3 Away, 4 Take in, 5 Bad blood, 6 Attention, 7 Scenery, 11 Sea change, 13 Implicit, 14 Cubicle, 16 Temper, 19 Paddy, 20 Snug, 23 Apt. What they’re saying Online Report: Towering waste-to-energy plant will be ‘improvement’ on dump It is about time. The government has been talking about doing something with all the waste generated by everyday living. This is a positive step forward. Bruce L. A new issue will be how to dispose of the highly toxic ash left from the burning, including ash scrubbers on the chimneys. Paul N. Can we attempt to make the most visible object on our beautiful island… not ugly? How about a worldwide design challenge and the winning design wins $100,000? Given the budget for this project and the fact we will all look at this for most of our lives, this seems like a small price for a large community value – I doubt the winning design will be one we are looking at here. Debora G. Kids learn responsibility one guinep at a time What a beautiful, inspiring story in a world that seems upside-down sometimes. As a long-time visitor to my beautiful islands with the most beautiful people since 1989, this reminds me of the true Caymanian way. As a person who considers guineps one of her favourite foods, I can relate also. One problem: I missed August, so the next thing would be, would Robbie ever consider expanding and shipping to Florida. This father should receive some honourable recognition for teaching these lessons and why every child should participate somehow in Heritage Day. May Cayman always keep its core values while changes abound. Evelyn C. Now that’s an initiative I wouldn’t mind taking part in! Margo Zechman Draft Sexual Harassment Bill under public scrutiny While ‘harassment’ in its original sense is a serious thing, attempts to tweak or widen its definition will have very unfortunate consequences. This definition must be absolutely crystal clear (and short; otherwise, the clarity will be lost) and must come first, before any thought of any legislation. Legislating without a very clear definition would cause much more harm than not legislating anything at all – we have seen this many times before, worldwide. Alexander P. Warning over jobs and business risk if minimum wage is ‘too high’ If the Cayman economy can be hurt by raising the minimum wage, then I would say that the Cayman economy is fundamentally broken. Nobody can live themselves on a wage of just over $1,000 unless they are sharing with 8+ people and eat only saltines. Cayman prices will likely not go down any time soon, so this minimum wage discussion needs to take that into account. Josh L. The best solution is a public/private one. The Cayman Islands government should allow an offset against stamp duties paid on food imports and work permits to cover the increased wages. It would keep prices flat so that the increased wages actually make an impact. Over the past 24 months, food and transportation costs have about doubled. Import duty percentage stayed the same, resulting in an increase in CIG intake. No one else benefitted from high food costs. Return that excess duty to the people who need the money. Opinion G. The question that Mr. Hurlston and the committee need to be asking themselves is ‘What is the cost to society if a non-living wage is implemented?’ One has to consider the less- privileged members of society. Armed robbery seems to be a weekly occurrence and will/ may eventually affect tourism. What would declining tourism cost society? Nicholas Robson It would be interesting to carry out a survey to ascertain the wages that are paid to live- in ‘nannies’, exactly what their duties entail, working hours, and if they have to pay for their own medical care. Trusty2man D. John Ferguson, owner of the world’s largest collection of Cayman licence plates, won him first place at the annual international convention of the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association, held this year in Denver, Colorado. The display, which won first prize for an international collection, was among more than 50 displays. It included examples of the earliest car and bicycle licence plates dating back to 1962 and 1967, respectively. The display also highlighted iconic Cayman images, including a stingray, turtle and parrot, the Cayman Islands flag and coat of arms, and a QR code for the Cayman Airways website. - Photo: Supplied Serving up the winning plates pic of the week cayman compass 4 news N news WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 2023WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 2023everyone deserves a luxe life This is a testament to your dedication, hard work, and exceptional commitment to providing top-notch property management services. This is a well-deserved recognition of your team’s expertise, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to excellence. - Christopher Columbus Your extensive experience and unwaivering commitment to excellence truly set you apart in the industry. We are incredibly proud to have Luxe as our property management partner and look forward to our continued success together. - Club Se7en at Beachcomber We brought on Luxe during the height of the pandemic, and Teresa and her team have done a great job of helping us navigate our way through those difficult times. The property has never looked better. This year we will set a new record for rental income, exceeding the previous record set in 2019. With the help of Luxe, we have recouped all of our pandemic shortfall and we are on pace to exceed these lofty numbers in 2024. - Coral Stone Club PROPERTY TESTIMONIALS GOLD IN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CONTACT: teresa@luxepropertygroup.ky 345-938-2230 luxepropertygroup.ky cayman compass 5 WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 2023SEAFORD RUSSELL JR. srussell@compassmedia.ky A Savannah family has told of their terrifying ordeal at the hands of armed robbers who kicked the locks off their front door and held a gun to the head of a father in front of his young son. The father, who spoke to the Compass on condition of anonymity, reflected that the presence of his primary-school-age child may have been the deciding factor that prevented the home invasion escalating into murder. At one point, he said, one of the men pointed the gun directly in his face. He believes that, at that moment, as the gunman glanced down at the man's son, who was looking on concernedly, and saying “Dad?”, the robber changed his mind about killing him. The man was at his home off Shamrock Road, along with his young son and elderly parents, just after 10:15pm on Friday night, 18 Aug., when the robbery occurred. In an interview a few days on Monday, 21 Aug., the man and his mother described chaotic scenes that left them fearing for their lives. The man was outside with his father, sitting on buckets and smoking a cigarette in the night air, when they heard crunching noises from the side of the home that they initially thought was the pet cat. When they saw the two men in ski masks and hoodies, the older man screamed in fear, as the son fled inside the house. His mother, who was sleeping, recalled: “They kicked that [door] right off. It’s an old house – 20 odd years – so the door jamb was weak, and they came in and that’s when I woke up... and I said, ‘What’s going on?’” By this time, her son had already hurried to the room where his child was sleeping, pursued by the two masked robbers. ‘Why you going to kill my mother?’ He tried to brace himself against the door, until he heard the men making threats towards his mother – “Tell him to open the door or I am going to kill you.” “When they said that, I just gave up,” the man said. In the midst of the horror, he argued with the gunmen, asking, “Why you going to kill my mother?”, before telling her to run. Taking up the story, the elderly woman said she fled outside. “The tall one stayed with [my son] and the short one ran me down and I dropped, and he said, ‘Where you running to’, with the gun down in my face, and I said, ‘Why are you going to kill me for, what have I done you? I don’t even know you; I can’t even see you’, and he said, ‘I’m not going to kill you’.” Meanwhile, the other intruder was demanding jewellery from her son, who had a gun pointed to his head, while his son looked on at his father, trembling. “He said, ‘Where is the chain?’ and I gave him the chain because my son is in the room, so, I’m not going to put up a fight, and he said, ‘Where is the next one?’ and I said, ‘I don’t have nothing else, I don’t have nothing else’, and he kept the gun on me and you could see he was trying to figure out where he could shoot me, but then he looked down on my son, and my son said, ‘Dad?’, and I think he caught pity because he just walked off.” And as he walked out, the other man was still standing over the woman who suffered several scrapes as a result of her falling down on the brick pavement. She said, ”And when he (the other intruder) came out, the guy was still over me and he said to him, ‘F*ck her, let’s go.’ “So then I jumped up and [went into the house]... and I called 911, but apparently that was the second call that came in.” She said her husband had been knocking on neighbours’ doors to get help but nobody would let him in. “Everybody was afraid, but they called the police.” Premeditated The daunting experience has left the family traumatised and confused, but they believe that the situation was a direct, premeditated attack, targeting the man’s jewellery. “My necklace is still there, they only came for his,” said the mother. “I have my handbag, I have money, but they didn’t ask for nothing, they only came for his jewellery.” According to the man, the chain and bracelets taken were valued at around $12,000 – money which he had saved up in order to pay instalments at a local store over a course of months. “I’ve always had gold,” he said. “From time I was in school. My mother always got me gold and I’m used to that. I like it.” But for now he is left with questions about why he was targeted for the brutal crime, wondering if it was something he did, or for revenge or simply jealousy. Though one thing he is certain about is he and his family didn’t deserve to be treated like criminals. “When people come to your home and kick off your door, you have to steal some drugs, owe some money, fight them out on the road or did something bad... but I did none of these things. “I don’t know how I deserve this. You know how people would get karma for something they did? I swear to God, I don’t have no karma because I haven’t done anything to anybody. Obviously, no one is perfect, but I did nothing to nobody.” The situation has left him staying in home in fear, during a week he was supposed to get his son’s school supplies. His mother has also been on edge, noting she went to the shop thinking the perpetrator could be the person right next to her. “I went to the shop and if I saw a man pass, especially a short man, I’m cringing because you don’t know who.” The matter is currently under investigation by the RCIPS Criminal Investigations Department. Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have any information, to contact George Town CID at 949-4222. Victims tell of terrifying armed home invasion “You could see he was trying to figure out where he could shoot me, but then, he looked down on my son, and my son said ‘Dad’, and I think he caught pity because he just walked off.” Robbery victim BE PREPARED THIS HURRICANE SEASON. Check that your insurance policies are up-to-date, so you’re covered in the event you need to make a claim. For more preparation tips, visit islandheritageinsurance.com/hurricane For more information call +1 345 949 7290 or visit islandheritageinsurance.com AD IH hurricane_general_check policies_FINAL_aug.25.2023.indd 1 AD IH hurricane_general_check policies_FINAL_aug.25.2023.indd 122/08/2023 10:16 AM22/08/2023 10:16 AM cayman compass news N news WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 2023 6SEAFORD RUSSELL JR srussell@compassmedia.ky The story of a young couple who made global headlines after being jailed for breaching Cayman’s strict COVID-era lockdown rules has had a happy ending. Almost three years after their names and faces were splashed across news channels, from Hong Kong to Canada, Vanjae Ramgeet and Skylar Ramgeet (née Mack) are now happily married with a child of their own. And jet-ski racer Ramgeet is starting to make a name for himself on the professional scene, taking fourth place in his most recent race in Indiana. “My wife and kid mean the world to me,” he told the Compass. “Being able to bring such a beautiful kid into this world with such a supportive, smart and loving woman is all a man could ever ask for to continue his journey.” While admitting he went through a dark time, nearly three years later, he is moving onward and upward, saying his life is better than it ever has been. He and Mack recently married and the pair welcomed their first child – a boy – earlier this year. The happy scene is a far cry from the public scrutiny the couple endured during the height of Cayman’s COVID-19 lockdown in November 2020. Both served a month in prison after Mack, who was 18 at the time, slipped off her monitoring bracelet and breached quarantine to watch her then boyfriend Ramgeet win a jet-ski race in Cayman. Amid widespread fear that the pandemic – then raging across the United States – would be reintroduced to virus-free Cayman, they were punished with the full force of the law. They were the first people in Cayman to be jailed under the COVID-19-suppression regulations and the case attracted international attention. US commentators put Cayman in the crosshairs, questioning the length of the sentence for Mack, an American citizen, while local sentiment was largely in favour of severe punishment for the young couple, who were painted as frivolous and irresponsible amid the threat of the pandemic. While the couple had the support of many, they acknowledged at the time that they were at fault and owned up for their mistakes. When asked about that period in his life, Ramgeet said he and his wife had put the situation behind them now and moved on calmer to seas, recently celebrating the birth of their son. However, he pointed out that other members of the community who were in breach of COVID regulations did not receive the same harsh treatment, which he says was unfair. A couple weeks prior to Ramgeet and Mack being sentenced, a Canadian couple were charged with tampering with their geo-fencing wristbands (the same offence as Mack) enabling them to break quarantine multiple times. They were fined $1,000 ($1,600 less than what Ramgeet and Mack had to pay) and given no custodial sentence. They opted to leave the island a few days ahead of their scheduled departure. Following Ramgeet and Mack’s release from prison, Police Commissioner Derek Byrne stated on multiple occasions during the government COVID-19 press conferences that people were still being caught in breach of the regulations. However, only two other people who were convicted of breaching COVID regulations was incarcerated – Jamaican national Stephany Clarke who was sentenced to four months in prison after she flew to Cayman despite knowing she had tested positive for COVID-19; and Canadian Thomas Michael who removed his wristband and used a pool, with his family and nanny, at the private residence where they were isolating. “Everyone should be held accountable for their mistakes the same,” Ramgeet said. “I do feel it’s unfair... People that did the same exact thing [or] worse, got to walk away with a slap on the wrist or $1,000 fines. What’s fair for one should be fair for all.” Competition success Ramgeet’s journey to success in the jet-ski world began some 20 years ago, when inspired by his older brother Vance, who started jet-ski racing in 2003, Ramgeet, now 27, tried his hand at the sport in 2009. Since then, he has captured a boatload of trophies and medals at the national, regional and international level. Included in those laurels were two world titles – achievements of which only a handful of Caymanian riders can boast. “[Vance] was one of the best at the time, which really pushed me to start racing and try to be as good as him,” Ramgeet said. “I have stuck with racing because I was raised to see my goals and believe in achieving them.” In his most recent race, Ramgeet took fourth at a P1 AquaX event in Michigan City, Indiana in July. “I held my own in the pro class, coming out just shy of the podium in fourth, which is still a great accomplishment in my eyes, going up against all the best in the world,” he said. The P1 Pro racer has competed more than 100 times since starting in the sport, adding he has never missed a P1 Aquax competition in five consecutive seasons. “I plan to continue to climb the leader board this season and, by the end, be in that number one spot – claiming the US national title [and] then bring home my third world title trophy,” Ramgeet said. Though he is grateful for all of his accomplishments thus far while carrying his nation’s flag, he said his longevity in the sports could not have been possible without help. He added that his family saw his potential and supported him not only financially, but also through investing their time and effort in him, and encouraging him to push forward through life’s ups and downs. Despite past mistakes and resulting notoriety, Ramgeet said he is looking ahead to better days as he strives for success in his family life and on the water. Vanjae Ramgeet in action. - Photo: Supplied From COVID infamy to happily ever after Vanjae Ramgeet, with his wife Skylar and baby son. - Photo: Supplied “Being able to bring such a beautiful kid into this world with such a supportive, smart and loving woman is all a man could ever ask for to continue his journey.” Vanjae Ramgeet cayman compass 7 news N news WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 2023As I embrace a new chapter in the Miss Universe Cayman Islands Organization, I refl ect on the legacy of past and present members who dedicated so much time to the development of Caymanian ladies that have chosen this platform to enhance their lives. As we turn the page we uphold these standards and continue to hold the torch in a quest to transform the contestants entering the pageant. The role of Miss Universe Cayman Islands is by no means an easy one because the titleholder is a public fi gure that everyone is now looking at while simultaneously having to display decorum, attend many events and continue to be involved in the community. The organization provides assistance in many ways to ensure that our titleholder’s journey is enjoyable and unforgettable. I am so proud of the 5 contestants that have taken the leap to enter the pageant. Each of you are all winners no matter who ultimately wears the crown. Always strive to be the best version of yourselves, trust in God and never give up no matter what adversities you face in life. Good luck on 2 September. I am delighted that our pageant will be live streamed on the Miss Universe platform this year. This is a huge milestone for us bringing visibility to millions of viewers TICKETS A V AILABLE A T FUNKY MONKEY OR EVENTPRO .KY CONTESTANT BIOS MISS UNIVERSE C A YMAN ISLANDS MEET OUR 2023 CONTESTANTS20232023MEET OUR 2023MEET OUR MEET OUR MEET OUR CONTESTANTS Mili Almaguer Mili is an exceptional individual who possesses genuine empathy and remarkable leadership qualities. Her extensive experience in sales, which she began at the young age of 15, has molded her into a diligent, compassionate, and capable woman. Additionally, she accomplished the impressive feat of graduating from high school early through online education. Currently, Mili is pursuing an accredited mental health certifi cate to help support friends and family and explore diff erent types of mental illnesses all while embarking on an internship in the Anti-Money Laundering fi eld. Being a strong advocate for self-love, Mili fi rmly believes in the power of manifesting one’s life goals through a combination of hard work and determination. One of her most signifi cant personal triumphs was successfully overcoming depression during her youth. Understanding the importance of raising awareness and providing support, Mili is committed to fostering resilience and assisting others in surmounting life’s challenges. To address these critical issues within her community, she envisions establishing a non-profi t organization in the near future. She aims to lead by example, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and overcome. Ileann Powery Sydonie Barrett Tracey Campbell Ayana Woolery Mili Almaguer AGE: 28 years old DISTRICT: George Town SOCIAL MEDIA: @sydoniebarrett AGE: 18 years old DISTRICT: Bodden Town SOCIAL MEDIA: @ky.tracey AGE: 19 years old DISTRICT: George Town SOCIAL MEDIA: @ayanaamoy Ileann Powery Ileann Powery is a young Caymanian who proudly hails from the beautiful district of West Bay. She is a National Volleyball Player of the Cayman Islands and has traveled to 11 diff erent countries and competed in 19 international tournaments through the sport. She has recently become a member of the Cayman Islands Folk Singers and feels honored to be able to carry on one aspect of preserving Caymanian heritage through this platform. She is also the owner of iPow Creations, which is a local business that provides photography and videography services to its clients. Through this new entrepreneurial venture, she has been able to connect with many people from diff erent backgrounds while helping her clients bring their vision to life through a camera. As it relates to her school history, Ileann is a John Gray High School and UCCI graduate, and she was a 2016 Proud of Them honoree. Outside of these areas of her life, she prides herself in being a lover of God, self- development and all things Soca! One fun fact about Ileann is that she is the youngest grandchild for her late grandparents Ella and Jude Powery out of 26 grandchildren! Sydonie Barrett Born and raised in George Town, Grand Cayman, Sydonie Barrett holds a Bachelor of Law with International Studies and a Master of Law in Professional Legal Practice. Being the fi rst student to receive a full legal scholarship from local law fi rm, Harney Westwood and Riegels, as a result she went on to pursue legal studies in the United Kingdom. She is currently a Policy and Development Offi cer at the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority advising on fi nancial regulations. In 2019, Sydonie became the fi rst Caymanian to enter and win the title of Miss Caribbean UK. Upon returning home, in 2021, she also placed fi rst runner-up in the Miss World Cayman Islands pageant. Sydonie enjoys being active in her community and volunteers regularly with various organizations, which began in high school through Key Club and Book Mobile. While studying at the University of Surrey, she was an executive member of the People and Planet Society. She continues to volunteer with the NCVO and Meals on Wheels programs. She is a recipient of the “Proud of Them” award in the Academics category and Leader of Opposition in the 5th Youth Parliament. Sydonie is confi dent that she would make a great Miss Universe Cayman Islands and a role model both locally and overseas through her confi dence. Intelligence and compassion. Tracey Campbell Tracey Campbell was born and raised in the Cayman Islands. She is Bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, from a very young age. She graduated from Cayman Prep and High School in 2021 and attended UCCI. She currently works at Diamonds International and plans to continue her studies to become a Real Estate Agent. Tracey goes to the gym regularly, and is committed to feel better, eat better and look better. Always willing to learn a new sport, PE was tracey’s favorite class in school. She is an avid footballer and softballer and has been playing football since she was 7 years old and travels abroad a few times a year to participate in tournaments. Tracey would encourage everyone to start a sport, stay active and have fun! She also spends a lot of time reading and listening to podcasts of successful people and enjoys the lovely beaches of Cayman as often as possible. Ayana Woolery Ayana is an Honors graduate of John Gray High School and she is currently attending The University College of The Cayman Islands, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Ayana has always been interested in exploring and experiencing the working world without limitations in order to carve out a fulfi lling career path for herself. She has experience as a Reservation Coordinator in the hospitality industry and as a Compliance Intern in the banking industry. She now owns and manages her own Security Company alongside her family members. An interest of Ayana’s is working with water sports, growing up she was engaged in Sailing at the local sailing club. She loves learning new skills such as motorized boat management. Ayana frequently volunteers with her local church and the Red Cross, she is an active member of her community and is always willing to give when she sees help is needed in someone’s life. A fun fact about Ayana’s is that at the age of 15 she fl ew all the way to Italy by herself without a cell phone! AGE: 25 years old DISTRICT: West Bay SOCIAL MEDIA: @ileannpowery AGE: 19 years old DISTRICT: West Bay SOCIAL MEDIA: @milialmag WHEN: Saturday, September 2nd TIME: 7:00PM WHERE: The Westin Beach Resort & Spa Since being named the Chairperson on April 1st, it feels like my feet have not had a chance to hit the ground; and that has been a good thing. I am so excited to be a part of this new chapter and honored to lead this charge. The contestants are fi lled with great talents, beauty and poise and any one of them could become the next Miss Universe Cayman Islands. The fi ve young ladies vying for this title have been gifted with so many “fi rst time” experiences and nuggets of wealth and I look forward to ensuring that every young woman that signs up for this opportunity can safely walk away a little bit better, a little bit stronger, and a whole lot fi ercer. I am so thankful to our sponsors who have come on board and the ones that have remained with us from day one - we could not do what we do without you! This year so far has been life- changing, exhausting and exhilarating, and we have just begun. As we prepare to crown the queen this year, I look forward in supporting her year long journey of being an ambassador to these islands that I am proud to be from. I look forward to the experience that she will no doubt have competing alongside other countries in El Salvador in the next few months. It has been an exhilarating few months and I look forward to what is in store. I am also thankful to the Director Derri Lee for her support and our pageant Coordinator, MUCI’s 2018 Queen, Caitlin Tyson, for all of her hard work and dedication to the young women and the pageant overall. All in all, I can safely say that the future of Miss Universe Cayman Islands is in good hands and regardless of all of the challenges, the future looks very bright. Catherine Tyson CHAIRPERSON Derri Lee NATIONAL DIRECTOR Messages from the C OMMITTEE cayman compass 8 WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 2023As I embrace a new chapter in the Miss Universe Cayman Islands Organization, I refl ect on the legacy of past and present members who dedicated so much time to the development of Caymanian ladies that have chosen this platform to enhance their lives. As we turn the page we uphold these standards and continue to hold the torch in a quest to transform the contestants entering the pageant. The role of Miss Universe Cayman Islands is by no means an easy one because the titleholder is a public fi gure that everyone is now looking at while simultaneously having to display decorum, attend many events and continue to be involved in the community. The organization provides assistance in many ways to ensure that our titleholder’s journey is enjoyable and unforgettable. I am so proud of the 5 contestants that have taken the leap to enter the pageant. Each of you are all winners no matter who ultimately wears the crown. Always strive to be the best version of yourselves, trust in God and never give up no matter what adversities you face in life. Good luck on 2 September. I am delighted that our pageant will be live streamed on the Miss Universe platform this year. This is a huge milestone for us bringing visibility to millions of viewers TICKETS A V AILABLE A T FUNKY MONKEY OR EVENTPRO .KY CONTESTANT BIOS MISS UNIVERSE C A YMAN ISLANDS MEET OUR 2023 CONTESTANTS20232023MEET OUR 2023MEET OUR MEET OUR MEET OUR CONTESTANTS Mili Almaguer Mili is an exceptional individual who possesses genuine empathy and remarkable leadership qualities. Her extensive experience in sales, which she began at the young age of 15, has molded her into a diligent, compassionate, and capable woman. Additionally, she accomplished the impressive feat of graduating from high school early through online education. Currently, Mili is pursuing an accredited mental health certifi cate to help support friends and family and explore diff erent types of mental illnesses all while embarking on an internship in the Anti-Money Laundering fi eld. Being a strong advocate for self-love, Mili fi rmly believes in the power of manifesting one’s life goals through a combination of hard work and determination. One of her most signifi cant personal triumphs was successfully overcoming depression during her youth. Understanding the importance of raising awareness and providing support, Mili is committed to fostering resilience and assisting others in surmounting life’s challenges. To address these critical issues within her community, she envisions establishing a non-profi t organization in the near future. She aims to lead by example, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and overcome. Ileann Powery Sydonie Barrett Tracey Campbell Ayana Woolery Mili Almaguer AGE: 28 years old DISTRICT: George Town SOCIAL MEDIA: @sydoniebarrett AGE: 18 years old DISTRICT: Bodden Town SOCIAL MEDIA: @ky.tracey AGE: 19 years old DISTRICT: George Town SOCIAL MEDIA: @ayanaamoy Ileann Powery Ileann Powery is a young Caymanian who proudly hails from the beautiful district of West Bay. She is a National Volleyball Player of the Cayman Islands and has traveled to 11 diff erent countries and competed in 19 international tournaments through the sport. She has recently become a member of the Cayman Islands Folk Singers and feels honored to be able to carry on one aspect of preserving Caymanian heritage through this platform. She is also the owner of iPow Creations, which is a local business that provides photography and videography services to its clients. Through this new entrepreneurial venture, she has been able to connect with many people from diff erent backgrounds while helping her clients bring their vision to life through a camera. As it relates to her school history, Ileann is a John Gray High School and UCCI graduate, and she was a 2016 Proud of Them honoree. Outside of these areas of her life, she prides herself in being a lover of God, self- development and all things Soca! One fun fact about Ileann is that she is the youngest grandchild for her late grandparents Ella and Jude Powery out of 26 grandchildren! Sydonie Barrett Born and raised in George Town, Grand Cayman, Sydonie Barrett holds a Bachelor of Law with International Studies and a Master of Law in Professional Legal Practice. Being the fi rst student to receive a full legal scholarship from local law fi rm, Harney Westwood and Riegels, as a result she went on to pursue legal studies in the United Kingdom. She is currently a Policy and Development Offi cer at the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority advising on fi nancial regulations. In 2019, Sydonie became the fi rst Caymanian to enter and win the title of Miss Caribbean UK. Upon returning home, in 2021, she also placed fi rst runner-up in the Miss World Cayman Islands pageant. Sydonie enjoys being active in her community and volunteers regularly with various organizations, which began in high school through Key Club and Book Mobile. While studying at the University of Surrey, she was an executive member of the People and Planet Society. She continues to volunteer with the NCVO and Meals on Wheels programs. She is a recipient of the “Proud of Them” award in the Academics category and Leader of Opposition in the 5th Youth Parliament. Sydonie is confi dent that she would make a great Miss Universe Cayman Islands and a role model both locally and overseas through her confi dence. Intelligence and compassion. Tracey Campbell Tracey Campbell was born and raised in the Cayman Islands. She is Bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, from a very young age. She graduated from Cayman Prep and High School in 2021 and attended UCCI. She currently works at Diamonds International and plans to continue her studies to become a Real Estate Agent. Tracey goes to the gym regularly, and is committed to feel better, eat better and look better. Always willing to learn a new sport, PE was tracey’s favorite class in school. She is an avid footballer and softballer and has been playing football since she was 7 years old and travels abroad a few times a year to participate in tournaments. Tracey would encourage everyone to start a sport, stay active and have fun! She also spends a lot of time reading and listening to podcasts of successful people and enjoys the lovely beaches of Cayman as often as possible. Ayana Woolery Ayana is an Honors graduate of John Gray High School and she is currently attending The University College of The Cayman Islands, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Ayana has always been interested in exploring and experiencing the working world without limitations in order to carve out a fulfi lling career path for herself. She has experience as a Reservation Coordinator in the hospitality industry and as a Compliance Intern in the banking industry. She now owns and manages her own Security Company alongside her family members. An interest of Ayana’s is working with water sports, growing up she was engaged in Sailing at the local sailing club. She loves learning new skills such as motorized boat management. Ayana frequently volunteers with her local church and the Red Cross, she is an active member of her community and is always willing to give when she sees help is needed in someone’s life. A fun fact about Ayana’s is that at the age of 15 she fl ew all the way to Italy by herself without a cell phone! AGE: 25 years old DISTRICT: West Bay SOCIAL MEDIA: @ileannpowery AGE: 19 years old DISTRICT: West Bay SOCIAL MEDIA: @milialmag WHEN: Saturday, September 2nd TIME: 7:00PM WHERE: The Westin Beach Resort & Spa Since being named the Chairperson on April 1st, it feels like my feet have not had a chance to hit the ground; and that has been a good thing. I am so excited to be a part of this new chapter and honored to lead this charge. The contestants are fi lled with great talents, beauty and poise and any one of them could become the next Miss Universe Cayman Islands. The fi ve young ladies vying for this title have been gifted with so many “fi rst time” experiences and nuggets of wealth and I look forward to ensuring that every young woman that signs up for this opportunity can safely walk away a little bit better, a little bit stronger, and a whole lot fi ercer. I am so thankful to our sponsors who have come on board and the ones that have remained with us from day one - we could not do what we do without you! This year so far has been life- changing, exhausting and exhilarating, and we have just begun. As we prepare to crown the queen this year, I look forward in supporting her year long journey of being an ambassador to these islands that I am proud to be from. I look forward to the experience that she will no doubt have competing alongside other countries in El Salvador in the next few months. It has been an exhilarating few months and I look forward to what is in store. I am also thankful to the Director Derri Lee for her support and our pageant Coordinator, MUCI’s 2018 Queen, Caitlin Tyson, for all of her hard work and dedication to the young women and the pageant overall. All in all, I can safely say that the future of Miss Universe Cayman Islands is in good hands and regardless of all of the challenges, the future looks very bright. Catherine Tyson CHAIRPERSON Derri Lee NATIONAL DIRECTOR Messages from the C OMMITTEE cayman compass 9 WEEKLY, 25-31 AUGUST 2023Next >