Award: Environmental Stewardship Award
Award Description: This award honours a young individual who demonstrates exceptional environmental stewardship through innovative conservation practices, effective resource management, and impactful initiatives that promote climate action and sustainable practices for the long-term health of our nation.
Biographies of Nominees
Kristy Shortte
Kristy Shortte is a dedicated environmental leader and Programme Manager at Sustainable Grenadines Inc. (SusGren), where she has spent over a decade advancing marine conservation, climate resilience, and community development across the Grenadines. Beginning her journey as an Administrative and Research Assistant in 2013, Kristy quickly rose through the ranks to become Programme Manager in 2023, a testament to her leadership, commitment, and impact in the field.
Throughout her career, Kristy has coordinated and implemented numerous regional projects with international partners, including the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, NOAA/GCFI, Ocean Conservancy, and the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund. Her work has spanned from coral restoration and zero-waste initiatives to sustainable livelihoods and ecosystem restoration, notably the flagship Ashton Lagoon Restoration Project on Union Island.
Kristy also founded and led the SusGren Junior Rangers Programme, nurturing environmental stewardship among young people from 2014 to 2018. She is a certified PADI Open Water Diver and represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) “Our Ocean: Young Ambassador” initiative in 2017, where she was honoured as an Honorary Citizen of Pensacola.
Driven, organised, and passionate about protecting coastal ecosystems, Kristy continues to champion inclusive, community-based conservation as a model for sustainable development across the Caribbean.
Melinda Robinson
Melinda Robinson is a passionate farmer, entrepreneur, and youth leader from Penniston, committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and community empowerment. With hands-on experience in both traditional and climate-smart farming, Melinda manages a thriving four-acre farm where she integrates micro-irrigation systems and drought-resilient techniques to enhance productivity and water efficiency.
Her dedication to innovation and youth engagement led her to co-found YEARN (Youth Engaged in Agriculture and Rural Networking) in 2024, where she serves as Chief Operating Officer. Through YEARN, Melinda works to empower young farmers across the Caribbean by promoting education, mentorship, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. She has also spearheaded initiatives to mobilize funding for drought-resilient agriculture and strengthen local food security.
In 2023, Melinda contributed to the UNDP Ridge to Reef Project, supporting conservation and ecosystem resilience efforts. She also completed training under the IWECO Programme in bird watching and biodiversity conservation, deepening her commitment to linking agriculture with environmental stewardship and ecotourism.
An alumna of the St. Vincent Community College and the St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown, Melinda combines technical know-how with a deep sense of community service. Her work embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation essential to shaping a sustainable agricultural future for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Tamesha James
Tamesha James is an environmental advocate and youth leader passionate about sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate action. She holds a BSc in Geography, Environmental and Natural Resource Management from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, complemented by certifications in Sustainable Agriculture, Occupational Health and Safety, and Spanish Language and Culture.
Currently an Intern with the Supportive Education and Training Programme at the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, Tamesha contributes to advancing sustainability within public institutions. Her professional background includes roles at the Ministry of Agriculture, the East Caribbean Group of Companies, and Elizabeth Law Chambers, reflecting her diverse skill set in administration, research, and environmental management.
A sought-after youth voice, she has spoken at major regional fora such as the REDLAC 26th Congress and the OECS Youth in Agriculture Forum, advocating for youth inclusion in climate governance. Through voluntary service with organisations like Energize Earth, Helen’s Daughters, and the Prime Ministerial Youth Advisory Council, Tamesha continues to inspire collective action for a greener, more equitable future.
Moesha Thomas
Moesha Thomas is a passionate and driven young professional, dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community development. Currently serving as an Administrative Assistant for the First Biennial Transparency Report (BTR1) and Third National Communication (TNC) Project within the Sustainable Development Unit (SDU), Moesha plays an integral role in supporting project coordination, budgeting, and reporting for one of the country’s key climate transparency initiatives.
A graduate of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, with a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Environmental and Natural Resource Management, Moesha combines her academic training with practical experience in both humanitarian and environmental fields. Her previous roles include serving as a Livelihoods Officer and Cash & Voucher Assistance Assistant with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Red Cross Society, contributing to the La Soufrière volcano emergency response and recovery efforts.
Moesha has also worked with the Carbon Zero Institute of Trinidad and Tobago under the CCRIF SPC Regional Internship Programme, contributing to the development of a Climate Smart Agriculture e-learning resource. A former educator and a dedicated Red Cross volunteer, she is known for her compassion, leadership, and collaborative spirit.
With a growing portfolio in project management, disaster resilience, and environmental advocacy, Moesha represents a new generation of Vincentian leaders shaping a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for the Caribbean.
Kellishia George
Kellishia George is a passionate environmental professional, committed to advancing sustainable ocean governance, environmental protection, and community awareness. She currently serves as a Senior Fisheries Assistant in the High Seas Unit of the Fisheries Division (MAFFRIL SVG), where she supports monitoring and enforcement efforts under the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA) and contributes to safeguarding marine resources through research, compliance, and education.
A First-Class Honours graduate of the University of the West Indies, with a BSc in Environmental Science and Sustainable Technology, Kellishia combines strong technical expertise with practical field experience. Her work includes conducting rapid marine assessments, reviewing Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs), and supporting laboratory testing for fish quality and marine biotoxins. She has liaised with national, regional, and international stakeholders to ensure effective fisheries management and environmental stewardship.
Her experience extends beyond government service. As a Social and Gender Research Consultant for the Canouan Airport Rehabilitation Project, and a National Project Assistant with the Basel Convention Regional Centre for the Caribbean, she contributed to social assessments, data-driven research, and sustainable waste management initiatives.
Fluent in Spanish and trained in project management, proposal writing, and fisheries inspection, Kellishia is recognised for her analytical rigour, leadership, and unwavering dedication to protecting marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable development in the Caribbean.
Jodesha Ryan
Jodesha Ryan is a dynamic Accounts and Administration Manager, with a distinguished record of leadership in financial management, human resources, and organisational development within the conservation and sustainable development sectors. She currently serves at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Conservation Fund (SVGCF), where she oversees budgeting, donor fund management, payroll, procurement, and compliance, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the Fund’s operations.
Jodesha’s journey with SVGCF began in 2021 as an Administrative Officer, where she played a pivotal role in strengthening organisational systems, developing internal policies, managing communications, and leading public engagement initiatives. Her expertise has been instrumental in building the Fund’s visibility through creative marketing, digital engagement, and community outreach that champions environmental stewardship across the islands.
Prior to this, Jodesha held several leadership roles at Invest SVG, where she managed administrative, marketing, and accounts departments, contributing to major national events such as the Everything Vincy Expo. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of the West Indies Open Campus, an associate degree in Sales and Marketing, and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Project Management and Finance. A committed youth leader, Jodesha serves as Secretary of the Climate Change Committee under the Prime Ministerial Youth Advisory Council, CARICOM Youth Ambassador, and Treasurer of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) SVG Chapter.
Adia Daniel
Adia Daniel is an emerging youth leader, climate advocate, and mental health champion. Currently pursuing her Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, Adia has already distinguished herself nationally and regionally as a passionate voice for sustainability, youth empowerment, and human rights.
She serves as the National Youth Mental Health Focal Point for the UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area and Let’s Unpack It Inc., where she designs and implements youth-led initiatives to end stigma and promote mental wellness. Her leadership extends into the environmental arena as a Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Youth Consultant with JEMS Environmental Management Services, contributing to projects such as Climate and Conservation Risk Mapping in collaboration with CANARI under the CEPF programme.
A dynamic communicator and advocate, Adia has represented Caribbean youth as a Speaker at the United Nations ECOSOC Youth Forum, a UNICEF Executive Board Meeting, and as a Youth Delegate at the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
A Vincentian Youth Ambassador and co-author of UNICEF’s Young Caribbean Minds, Adia has received numerous accolades, including the Most Promising Advocate Award and the Chief Commissioner Guide Award. She embodies the next generation of Vincentian leadership - innovative, compassionate, and determined to build a more resilient and inclusive Caribbean.
Halei Douglas
Halei Douglas is an emerging civil and structural engineer dedicated to designing and advocating for climate-resilient infrastructure. Currently pursuing an MEng in Civil and Structural Engineering at the University of Leeds, Halei combines academic excellence with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, youth leadership, and public engagement.
Her engineering experience includes serving as an Intern with the Kingstown Port Modernization Project, where she supported site inspections, environmental and safety risk assessments, and the use of surveying and drone technology to enhance construction efficiency. She also contributed to data analysis and design review processes, applying practical engineering solutions to large-scale infrastructure development.
Beyond her technical pursuits, Halei serves as Public Relations Officer for the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council on Youth, Climate Change Sector, where she leads public awareness initiatives and digital campaigns promoting environmental action. She is also a Young Guider with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, mentoring girls in leadership and sustainability.
Recognised as a National Scholar and recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Academic Excellence, Halei has also been named among the top performing CAPE candidates in Physics and Computer Science. Her work reflects an inspiring blend of innovation, advocacy, and integrity, anchoring her mission to engineer a more sustainable, inclusive future.
Shanae Browne
Shanae Browne is an environmental professional dedicated to advancing biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and public awareness. She serves as an Administrative Cadet within the Sustainable Development Unit (SDU), where she manages the Biodiversity Portfolio and supports national environmental policy and reporting processes.
In her role, Shanae collaborates with regional organisations such as CARICOM, the OECS, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). She acts as the government focal point for the UNDP Early Action Support (EAS) Project, coordinating stakeholder engagement, chairing project steering committee meetings, and reviewing project documentation to ensure alignment with national sustainability priorities. She also contributes to the preparation of the Biennial Transparency Report (BTR1) and Third National Communication (TNC), key components of the country’s climate transparency obligations.
A graduate of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, with a BSc in Geography and Environmental and Natural Resource Management, Shanae also holds a Certificate in Geo-Informatics for Environmental Management and is currently pursuing an MSc in Natural Resource and Environmental Management at UWI Cave Hill.
Creative and passionate about environmental storytelling, Shanae integrates her artistic talents in public outreach by designing posters, digital content, and social media campaigns that connect communities with conservation action. She continues to exemplify commitment, innovation, and collaboration in advancing environmental sustainability.
Shernell Hadaway
Shernell Hadaway is a distinguished Barrister-at-Law, Legislative Drafter, Certified Mediator, and Notary Public, with over a decade of experience advancing legal reform, environmental governance, and sustainable development. She currently serves as Parliamentary Counsel III in the Attorney General’s Chambers, where she provides legislative support to government ministries, drafts primary and subsidiary legislation, and ensures coherence and compliance within national legal frameworks.
Shernell’s professional journey spans roles in both public service and academia. She has lectured in Law Office Management and Business Law at the Community College, fostering a new generation of legal professionals. Previously, she served as Legal Officer with the Medicinal Cannabis Authority, contributing to the development of regulatory frameworks and compliance systems for emerging industries.
An alumna of the University of the West Indies, University of Leeds, University of Law, and University of London, she holds multiple advanced degrees including a Master of Science in Climate Change and Environmental Policy and a Master of Laws in Legislative Drafting. Her research bridges law, climate adaptation, and digital ethics, reflecting her passion for using law as a tool for resilience and innovation.
A Chevening Scholar, Toastmasters awardee, and Deputy Chairperson of the Climate Change Sector under the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council on Youth, Shernell exemplifies excellence, mentorship, and leadership in shaping sustainable, equitable governance across the Caribbean.
