Unsung Hero toasted for community service

Desmond Bruce, a community-minded Barbadian who has dedicated himself to improving the lives of people in need, has been named CIBC Caribbean’s Unsung Hero for Barbados for 2026.

The announcement was made on Tuesday during the bank’s Unsung Heroes Awards Ceremony at Warrens Great House, where CIBC Head of Country Barbados Victor Boyce praised Bruce and fellow honouree Shermena Kirton for their selfless contributions to others.

The winners (sitting) Desmond Bruce and Shermena Kirton with members of the CIBC Caribbean Executive team (left) Chief Financial. Hill CEO and Doug Williamson – Managing Director Transformation, Governance and Controls> (Photo Credit: Shamar Blunt)

Boyce said the programme was about recognising people who quietly make a difference without seeking praise or recognition.

“I am truly impressed with some of the stories that I have been hearing about in this programme,” he said.

Quoting from calypsonian Red Plastic Bag’s 1996 song Issues of the Day, Boyce said: “We must know who our heroes are and we must hail them from near and from far. This nation wasn’t built by our leaders alone, so many heroes out there are unknown.”

The CIBC Caribbean programme sought to identify “the quiet people who are going around in their communities and doing good things without fuss”, he said. 

“They are not looking for a pat on the back, or rewards. They are just looking to help somebody else.”

Bruce, who has committed to upholding the legacy of his Combermere School teacher Harold “Harry” Sealy, has dedicated himself to improving people’s quality of life by offering them “a helping hand up”, rather than simply “a hand out”.

Through his charitable team, known as “Harry’s Dreamers”, he has assisted vulnerable people across Barbados and extended his efforts as far as Ghana.

Boyce highlighted the group’s work, including supplying medical and art supplies, agricultural implements and groceries, as well as renovating a playground.

Fellow honouree Kirton, a registered nurse and midwife, was also recognised for her extensive volunteer work with the Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Foundation. In addition to coordinating breastfeeding classes and consultations, she makes herself available to mothers seeking advice and guidance during the early stages of their children’s lives.

Boyce thanked both honourees for their sacrifices, including time spent away from their families, and also praised their families for supporting their community work.

He said the bank wanted to “shine the spotlight” on people who often work quietly in their own corners.

Boyce also saluted the other nominees, saying their work in making the lives of others better through acts of kindness deserved recognition.

Bruce’s award now takes him into the regional phase of the programme, where he will compete against winners from the other nine territories in which CIBC Caribbean operates for the title of 2026 Regional Unsung Hero.

“Desmond, we are keeping our fingers crossed for you!” Boyce said.

(SB)