King Charles III and Queen Camilla joined in the presentation of national honours on Sunday as Antigua and Barbuda celebrated its 45th anniversary of independence, recognising individuals for outstanding contributions to national development, education, culture, philanthropy and community service.
The special ceremony formed part of the country’s Independence Day celebrations, with the royal couple participating alongside Governor General Sir Rodney Williams in recognising citizens whose work has made a lasting contribution to Antigua and Barbuda.
Lady Sandra Louise Williams
Among the recipients was Lady Sandra Louise Williams, who was appointed Dame Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation (DGN) for her exceptional and exemplary service through sustained national and international advocacy, youth leadership, charitable causes and philanthropy.
Williams, who is associated with the Halo Foundation and the Royal Commonwealth Society, was recognised for her longstanding involvement in initiatives supporting young people and charitable causes.
Anthony W. Astaphan
Anthony W. Astaphan was appointed Grand Cross of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GCM) for his distinguished contributions to regional and national legal services, governance and public legal education.
Cultural figure Stanley Humphreys was also recognised, receiving the Grand Cross of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage (GCH) for his outstanding contributions to music, culture and national development.
Stanley Humphreys
Susan Jennifer Sharp was appointed Grand Officer of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GOM) for her contributions to the guidance, mentorship, development and education of young people.
Sharp was recognised particularly for her involvement in the Girl Guides movement and her commitment to helping young girls develop into confident and capable women.
Susan Jennifer Sharp
The ceremony also recognised disability advocate Bernard Warner, who received an Order of Merit honour for his outstanding service to persons with disabilities and his work advancing the interests of the disability community in Antigua and Barbuda.
Warner’s recognition drew a warm response from those attending the ceremony.
Sports administrator Karen Joseph was also listed among those selected for national recognition for her contributions to sports, particularly netball. However, it was announced during the proceedings that she was not on the island and would receive her honour at a later date.
The awards were made under the National Honours Act of 1998, which establishes the country’s national orders and provides for the recognition of individuals who have rendered distinguished service.
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, as Grand Master of the Orders, authorised the appointments following consultations with Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle.
The ceremony provided an opportunity for the awardees to interact with King Charles and Queen Camilla, who congratulated recipients as they received their honours.
The national honours formed part of celebrations marking 45 years since Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from Britain on November 1, 1981.
The royal participation added a special dimension to this year’s observances, which coincide with Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Dame Sandra Williams, Anthony Astaphan, and Bernard Warner among national honourees recognised by King Charles and Queen Camilla.