The Citizens Engagement Platform Seychelles commemorated its 10th anniversary by unveiling a new logo and honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to the organisation and the civil society sector over the past decade.
The special ceremony was held at the Dockland Auditorium last week. It began with reflections by former chairperson and current secretary, Francoise Larue, who welcomed distinguished guests, including First Lady Linda Ramkalawan, board members of the Citizens Engagement Platform Seychelles (CEPS), and executives from various associations.
This was followed by a keynote address from Michel Pierre, former CEPS worker, former chief executive and current vice-chairperson, who detailed the organisation’s evolution from the Liaison Unit for Non-governmental Organisations (Lungos), emphasising its milestones and challenges over the years.
An emotional part of the event was paying tribute to 10 influential individuals who contributed greatly to Ceps but have since passed away. The honorees were Achille ‘Kwame’ Luc, Marcel Rosalie, Mervin Fanny, Dickson Servina, Jacqueline Cupidon, Archbishop French Chang-Him, Neige Madeleine, Michel Savy, Danny Dufrenne and Rosie Bistoquet.
CEPS’ chief executive, Alvin Laurence, spoke about each of their contributions, stating that recognising these individuals emphasises the essence of civil society – people engaged in nation-building. “The next decade promises modernisation while keeping individuals at the core,” he said.
Tokens of recognition were presented by First Lady Ramkalawan and Ceps’ chairperson Dr Odile De Comarmond, followed by a tribute poem performed by Bling Bling Poetry representatives Raspyek and Stephanie Joubert.
The second part of the ceremony honoured 10 influential individuals who are actively contributing to civil society today. Presentations were made by former Ceps’ chairperson, Jules Hoareau, and current treasurer, Marion Orphée. The honorees included Jocelyn Florentine, Cathrine Belmont, Justin Freminot, Germaine Valentin, Brigitte Lablache, Jourdane Ernesta, Sylvia Hoareau, Rosemary Elizabeth, Margaret Maillet and Rosemary Dogley.
“It encourages me to give the best of myself in whatever I undertake. That’s what living for the sake of others is all about,” stated Mrs Elizabeth after being recognised for her contribution.
For his part Mr Freminot said he felt honoured. “It enhances my enthusiasm to continue contributing to the community,” he shared.
Mrs Valentin said such recognition pays for the hard work she started with the Girl Guide movement in 1972, which continued with programmes for reproductive health and senior citizens while Ms Maillet shared that the award recognises her 17 years at the Seychelles Bible Society, where among its achievements is the translation of the Bible into Creole.
During last week’s event, there were also special mention for contributors not present at the ceremony namely Dr Victorin Laboudallon, Lucianne Sofola, Monica Servina and Patricia Rene.
The event concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting by Jules Hoareau, Dr Odile De Comarmond, Agnielle Payet, as well as Basil Cupidon, whose late wife proposed the name CEPS.
Courtesy: Nation.sc
