The Virgin Islands Communal Association (VICA) salutes renowned Virgin Islands entrepreneur and community leader - Mr. Lesmore Smith, who was honoured with two prestigious Awards at the Virgin Islands Pride Awards Dinner and Dance Awards Ceremony, held in New York on May 17, 2026.
Dr. Muriel Shulterbrandt Williams, Founder and Director of MSW and Company and Grapeseed Business and Educational Consulting sponsored the Virgin Islands Pride Awards Dinner and Dance Awards Ceremony. Dr. Shulterbrandt, is a proud Virgin Islander, educator, author, and visionary leader who is committed to empowering individuals and organizations through principled leadership and purposeful innovation. Established with the mission of cultivating self-awareness, self-worth, and self-esteem, MSW and Company and Grapeseed Business and Educational Consulting has evolved into a respected organization dedicated to recognizing individuals whose contributions have positively impacted their communities and beyond.
This year’s recognition of Mr. Smith highlights a lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to the people of the Virgin Islands. For more than 26 years, Mr. Smith has been distinguished as one of the Virgin Islands’ most respected business leaders. Guided by his personal philosophy that, “beautiful change begins with a vision and the courage to action it,” he has built a legacy rooted in service, opportunity, and community development.
The first Award recognized Mr. Smith’s exemplary service during his 16-year career with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. The award citation commended his dedication to public safety and acknowledged his rise to the rank of Sargent, noting his unwavering commitment to upholding the law and helping to protect our Virgin Islands community.
The second Award was a Humanitarian Award that celebrated Mr. Smith’s outstanding achievements as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community advocate. Through his leadership, he has created employment opportunities for more than 200 individuals across a wide range of professions. His commitment to community development extends beyond business, as he has provided life-saving equipment to individuals in need and made significant financial contributions toward initiatives that improve the lives of people throughout the Virgin Islands.
In addition to his business, philanthropic contributions and his unsung humanitarian services, Mr. Smith has played an important role as a community liaison, helping to fosterdialogue, promote awareness, and support initiatives that contribute to lasting social and economic progress in the Virgin Islands.
The recognition bestowed upon Mr. Smith with those Virgin Islands Pride Awards reflects the profound impact he has made through decades of dedicated service, leadership, and generosity.
The Virgin Islands Communal Association (VICA) and the people of the British Virgin Islands join in extending heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Lesmore Smith on this well-deserved honour. His achievements continue to inspire future generations and serve as a testament to the positive difference that visionary leadership and community service can make.