Twenty organizations were recognized recently during the Civil Society Sector Awards, held at Government House under the theme “Giving Back While Taking Responsibility.” The event, hosted by Civil Society Bahamas in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, marked the 20th anniversary of the Civil Society – the national apex body for nonprofit and non-governmental organizations in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
Held in the ballroom at historic Government House, and attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and public officials, the evening paid tribute to the individuals and groups quietly driving change across the country.
Remarks throughout the evening came from key figures in the public and civic sectors, including Civil Society Bahamas President Dr Anthony Hamilton, and Sharmie Farrington, Director of the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, who skillfully moderated the programme. As part of the tribute to the unwavering work of the awardees, a message was delivered on behalf of Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon Myles LaRoda, commending them and their various organizations for making a consistent and lasting impact in the community.
Honorees included representatives from the Bahamas Breastfeeding Association, which advocates for maternal and child health; Bahamas Disability Adventures, which supports inclusive recreation and community-building; and STRAW Inc Center for Young Women, which provides mentorship and leadership development. From the Affluent Feeding Foundation to Women United in Prayer, the honorees represented sectors ranging from food security to family restoration, education, advocacy, recovery services, and youth empowerment.
The awards presentation, led by Her Excellency the Most Honourable Dame Cynthia A. Pratt, Governor-General of The Bahamas, highlighted the diverse yet interconnected work of organizations across the country. Each recipient came forward with visible grace and humility, as Her Excellency presented the awards in recognition of their service. For many, it was the first time their work had been acknowledged on such a national stage.
Founded in 2005, Civil Society Bahamas exists to strengthen and unify the voices of nonprofits across The Bahamas. As the national coordinating body for the sector, CSB plays a vital role in fostering collaboration, advocating for policy that supports civic engagement, and building the capacity of member organizations. Entities like CSB are a cornerstone of healthy democratic societies around the world—bridging the gap between government institutions and everyday communities, and championing the kind of work that often goes unseen but is deeply felt by those segments of society who are most in need of advocacy.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from CSB Vice President Ms. Marilyn Zonicle, followed by a photo session and reception. Guests lingered in conversation, some connecting for the first time despite years of working toward similar goals.
In honoring the hands and hearts behind some of the nation’s most compassionate efforts, the evening served as a reminder that while government may build policy and private sector may drive commerce, but it is civil society that often holds the fabric of the country together.
Source: Felicity Darville
