Virgin Islands’ attorney and partner Ms Ayana S Hull has been awarded Gold at the 2026 Citywealth Powerwomen Awards USA in the Woman of the Year, Caribbean category. Photo: Team of Reporters

Ayana S. Hull is a Partner and Head of Maples Group’s British Virgin Islands Regulatory & Financial Services. Photo: LinkedIn

The award ceremony held on March 18, 2026, in New York, USA, saw Hull win Gold, with only 10% of the votes being the popular vote and the other 90% by a panel of judges.

‘Recognition means a great deal’

Hull, who recently departed Harneys after 12 years there and returned to Maples Group as Partner and Head of its British Virgin Islands Regulatory & Financial Services, said she was “deeply honoured” to accept the award.

“This recognition means a great deal, not just personally, but symbolically. To be a Virgin Islander receiving this award on a global stage is a timely reminder that excellence is not confined by or limited to geography, and impact can and do emerge from small jurisdictions and island economies dedicated to shaping international finance, law, and governance in meaningful ways.”

‘The world is taking notice’

The local attorney, who has been recognised by Legal 500 and IFLR as a leading practitioner, said she is especially proud to represent the Virgin Islands and the Maples Group and even more proud to stand alongside women across the Caribbean who continue to lead with substance, resilience, and integrity.

“To every woman from a jurisdiction of sixty square miles or less who has ever wondered whether her body of work would be seen - let this award stand as living proof that our work, our voices, and our brilliance travel far beyond our shores, shattering geographic limits. We are here, and the world is taking notice.”

Hull, who is also recognised as a highly regarded lawyer by IFLR rankings, extended congratulations to every woman “nominated and shortlisted” in the Woman of the Year, Caribbean category and expressed appreciation to the judges, her colleagues and clients for their trust, and to those who voted for her.

‘We are thrilled’- Maples Group

Maples Group stated on social media, “We are thrilled to celebrate Ayana S Hull, who has been awarded Gold at the 2026 Citywealth Powerwomen Awards USA in the Woman of the Year, Caribbean category. A well-deserved recognition of her leadership and expertise in BVI regulatory law. Congratulations, Ayana!”

Ayana S. Hull is a former chairperson of the BVI Financial Services Commission’s (FSC) appointed Securities, Investment Business Act Advisory Committee. She is recognised as a leading partner in the Virgin Islands by Legal 500 in the Virgin Islands Regulatory and Compliance rankings in 2025.