Culture and Heritage
The day began at Nurse Josie’s Heritage House in Bodden Town, where the legendary Mary J. Lawrence, former Speaker of the House and cultural guardian, guided participants through Cayman’s living history. From thatch baskets to catboats, the tour was a hands-on reminder that heritage isn’t just preserved—it’s lived.
Back in George Town, the Intergenerational Hub hosted a dinner of traditional Caymanian fare—think turtle stew, rundown, and heavy cake—before the evening’s seminar kicked off with a powerful panel lineup.
Roy Bodden, former UCCI President and one of Cayman’s most respected cultural historians, brought the fire. With wit and wisdom, he unpacked the evolution of Caymanian society—from seafaring roots to financial powerhouse—urging participants to “know who you fa” in a world of rapid change.
Tunisia Barnes, Senior Policy Analyst at the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Heritage, offered a policy-forward perspective on cultural preservation. Her work focuses on ensuring that Caymanian traditions aren’t just remembered—they’re embedded in national development strategies.
Rita Powell, Head of Education, Research & Grants at the Cayman National Cultural Foundation, brought an educator’s lens to the conversation. With a background in inclusive education and mental health, she emphasized the importance of engaging youth and making culture accessible to all.
Breakout sessions tackled big questions: How do we preserve Caymanian identity in a multicultural society? What role does digital media play in cultural transmission? And how do we ensure that heritage is more than a museum piece—it’s a living, breathing part of everyday life?
The seminar closed with a sense of purpose and pride. Participants left not just with a deeper understanding of Cayman’s cultural roots, but with a renewed sense of responsibility to help shape its future—honouring the past while embracing what’s next.