By Sue-Ann Wayow

PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has another reason to celebrate.

She has won the People’s Choice Winner Caribbean Global Awards (CGA).

Persad-Bissessar’s win was announced by  CGA  on Monday night.

CGA’s founder Michaelene Holder-March reposted the announcement  on her Facebook page.

Holder-March stated, “HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC! We are thrilled to announce that – the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC has been crowned the PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER from the prestigious Caribbean Global Awards (CGA)!

“This incredible honour was decided by YOU – the people! With a record-breaking 3,850 votes pouring in from across the globe, and amidst a fiercely competitive field of 58 outstanding nominees, Mrs Persad-Bissessar’s victory is a powerful testament to her close connections to the community.”

CGA stated the integrity of the People’s Choice Award was paramount as an independent panel of 15 distinguished judges, observers, and adjudicators from diverse Caribbean and international backgrounds meticulously reviewed and validated the votes over five plus hours, ensuring the result truly reflects the people’s voice.

Persad-Bissessar topped the list of notable Caribbean leaders including Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines Ralph Gonsalves who placed second, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley – third, Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness – fourth and President of Guyana Dr Irfaan Ali who placed fifth.

Dr Ali was also last year’s winner.

To Persad-Bissessar, Holder-March said, “This award celebrates your unwavering dedication, leadership, and profound connection with the people of Trinidad and Tobago, the wider Caribbean and beyond. The people have spoken loud and clear!”

The Caribbean Global Awards is an initiative designed to celebrate and recognise excellence, innovation and contributions across various sectors in the Caribbean region and beyond according to the London Daily News.

Nominations for the award show closed off with 243 nominations for various categories from the Caribbean and other international countries and the People’s Choice Winner is selected by public voting.

Voting officially ended on June 1.

The official award ceremony is scheduled to take place with a grand masquerade party in London on September 27 at the Cumberland Hotel.

On May 30, Holder-March posted a video message on social media thanking all the nominees for their contribution to Caribbean development.

“I am filled with pride as we celebrate the remarkable 2025 CGA nominees. Your achievements reflect the strength, brilliance, and global impact of the Caribbean spirit. From healthcare and innovation to culture and leadership — each of you is a beacon of excellence. Thank you for inspiring us all,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar shot back into global spotlight with her landslide victory at the April 28 general election with many global leaders congratulating her on the victory.

United National Congress (UNC) public relations officer Dr Kirk Meighoo had encouraged the population to again vote for another victory for Persad-Bissessar whose contenders included not just politicians but also singer Rihanna from Barbados, cricketer Shivnarine Chanderpaul from Guyana, Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Sir Hilary Beckles  from Barbados  and Trinidad and Tobago Jo Marie Zakour of the Syrian Lebanese Women’s Association.

Also in the line up to receive awards from Trinidad and Tobago are Alex Cassidy and Dr Andre Cropper.

Cassidy’s win was announced on May 24.

Cassidy, renowned social media blogger and digital storyteller, will be receiving the Caribbean Global Award for Best Caribbean Tourism Content Creator.

“From crystal-clear waters and our hidden island gems to vibrant festivals and authentic local experiences, Alex has captured the true essence of Caribbean beauty and culture through every post, reel, and story,” CGA posted.

And earlier last month, Dr Cropper an electrical engineer, innovator and research scientist was announced as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

CGA posted, “A career that inspired generations. Celebrating a true icon with a well-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award. Decades of dedication, impact, and brilliance. A standing ovation for this Lifetime Achievement recognition!”

Last year, Dr Jerome Teelucksingh was recognised for his contributions to Afro and Indo-Caribbean Diaspora in North America, Pan Africanism and Caribbean race, gender and ethnic relations research.

CGA also honoured the founding of International Men’s Day.