President of the BVI Nurses Association, Mrs Rosa Ravariere-Seaman, has received the Josefa Wouter Professional Organisation Leadership Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership and contribution to the nursing profession in the Virgin Islands and across the Caribbean. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Established in 1980 in memory of former Caribbean Nurses Organisation President Josefa Wouter, the award recognises outstanding leadership and service to national and regional nursing organisations. It honours contributions to nursing education, professional practice, advocacy and the health of Caribbean communities. Photo: Internet Source

The award was presented during the Caribbean Nurses Organisation Conference, held from October 23 to 31, 2026. Mrs Ravariere-Seaman was also re-elected as Assistant Treasurer of the regional organisation for a second consecutive term.

Recognition for leadership

Chief Nursing Officer Mrs Jascinth Hannibal congratulated Mrs Ravariere-Seaman on both achievements, noting that the recognition reflects the important contribution of Virgin Islands nurses to the advancement of the profession regionally.

“Congratulations to Mrs Ravariere-Seaman on this well-deserved honour. This award recognises her leadership and years of service in the Virgin Islands and across the Caribbean,” Mrs Hannibal said.

Established in 1980 in memory of former Caribbean Nurses Organisation President Josefa Wouter, the award recognises outstanding leadership and service to national and regional nursing organisations. It honours contributions to nursing education, professional practice, advocacy and the health of Caribbean communities.

VI delegation participated

Mrs Ravariere-Seaman was among seven representatives of the BVI Nurses Association who participated in the regional conference, which brought together nursing leaders, educators, practitioners, students and policymakers from 19 Caribbean countries and territories.

Held under the theme, “Sustaining Nursing Excellence: Advancing the Human, Scientific and Technological Innovations in Care,” the conference provided an opportunity for regional dialogue on strengthening nursing practice and improving healthcare delivery.

The VI delegation included Vice President Jenuel McSheene, Secretary Ghislaine Olive, Treasurer Avalina Valrose, and members Rupertha Ephraim, Gretchen Hodge-Penn and Sandrine Phipps.

Continued commitment to nursing

The Ministry of Health and Social Development continues to recognise the important role of nursing professionals in strengthening healthcare delivery, advancing professional standards and improving health outcomes throughout the Virgin Islands. 

Mrs Ravariere-Seaman’s latest recognition adds to a record of professional service in the Territory. She was previously named BVI Nurse of Distinction in 2023 and was appointed to the Nurses and Midwives Council in 2025.