As part of its annual Men’s Week observance (June 15 to 21, 2025), the Gender Affairs Unit of Anguilla proudly celebrated the 2025 Men of Action Awardees—a distinguished group of individuals recognized for their exceptional leadership, mentorship, and contributions to national development.
Held under the theme “Men, Living the Legacy, Evolving with Purpose”, Men’s Week highlighted the importance of positive masculinity, mental health awareness, and the role of men in shaping a just and equitable society. Men’s Week is not just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to shift narratives, confront stigma, and uplift the voices of men making a difference. These awardees exemplify what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and vision.
2025 Men of Action Awardees:
VICTOR F. BANKS – Lifetime Leadership & Service – With over four decades of public service, former Premier Victor F. Banks has left an indelible mark on Anguilla. From establishing the Anguilla Social Security Board to mentoring youth through the Ebenezer Men’s Fellowship, his contributions span governance, education, and spiritual leadership. Mr. Banks is honoured for his unwavering integrity, nation-building legacy, and commitment to equity and empowerment.
GIRDON CONNOR – Sports, Arts & Culture – A driving force in both athletics and the arts, Girdon Connor has dedicated his life to youth empowerment. As President of the Anguilla Football Association and Managing Director of Klassique Academy of Dance, his impact bridges the football field and the performance stage. His leadership has strengthened Anguilla’s presence regionally through CONCACAF, CFU, and the MOVE Dance Festival—inspiring excellence, discipline, and cultural pride.
JEVOHN MARTIN – Excellence in Mentorship – Educator. Designer. Changemaker. Jevohn Martin, founder of JM-Designs and teacher at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, uses creativity and purpose to ignite young minds. His mentorship blends innovation with character development, encouraging students to dream boldly and lead confidently. A believer in early exposure and empowerment, Jevohn is redefining what it means to teach and inspire.
COACH KEIVOIS LAKE – Youth Development Through Sport – As co-founder of Spartans FC Youth Academy, Coach Keivois Lake is shaping more than athletes—he’s shaping leaders. Under his guidance, the academy clinched titles in the AFL U-17 (2022) and U-15 (2025) divisions. But Coach Keivois’s greatest win is the transformation he fosters in young lives through discipline, mentorship, and vision—on and off the field.
DELANO SMITH – Phoenix Award for Resilience and Transformation – Once defined by past mistakes, Delano Smith has since rewritten his story. While incarcerated as a teen, he embraced growth through education, poetry, and trades training. Today, he is a pillar of the community—leading clean-ups, mentoring youth, and speaking honestly about second chances. “Don’t give up—always give your best,” Delano shares. His journey from pain to purpose is a testament to the power of redemption.
VALENTINO SELLASIE MUCKETT – Health & Wellness Advocacy – Born in Caratal Village, St. Vincent, Valentino Muckett blends technical excellence with a deep passion for holistic health. A former ANGLEC electrician and current Lead Technical Engineer at AASPA, he’s also a Certified Master Trainer and founder of Holistic Wellness by Valentino. With an Associate’s in Exercise Science and multiple certifications, he advocates for balanced living and inspires others to live with intention.
INCIA “BUSTA” BROOKS – Community Impact- From the basketball court to the sea, Coach Busta leads with purpose. Founder of Top Hill Basketball Club and captain of the Satellite boat, he uplifts youth through sport, discipline, and cultural preservation. Once overlooked, he’s now a cornerstone of North Hill’s youth development—empowering young men to rise with pride and perseverance.
Men’s Week is part of a broader mission to build an inclusive society where everyone’s voice is valued. Through the contributions of these men, and others in our community, we are reminded that positive male role models are not only essential but transformational.
As Anguilla continues advancing gender justice, the Gender Affairs Unit reaffirms its commitment to recognizing and empowering men who build, uplift, and lead with purpose.
