Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange has been recognised with the 2025 Commonwealth Parliamentary Equality and Diversity Award for her decades-long work in advancing gender equality, social justice, and inclusion in Jamaica and across the Commonwealth.

The award, which celebrates exceptional parliamentary leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion, acknowledges Minister Grange’s sustained advocacy for women’s empowerment, youth participation, and disability inclusion, both locally and internationally.

Over her 33-year political career, Minister Grange has been instrumental in shaping policies and legislation that promote equality and protect vulnerable groups. Among her notable contributions is the Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act, 2021, which strengthened legal protections for women and workers. She has also championed the National Policy for Gender Equality and the National Strategic Action Plan to Eliminate Gender-Based Violence, alongside initiatives establishing shelters and helplines for survivors of abuse.

Her work has extended beyond legislation to include public education campaigns aimed at challenging stereotypes and promoting positive representations of gender and diversity. Through the Bureau of Gender Affairs, she has helped advance inclusive national frameworks that support women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

“An equitable society can only exist when its members are afforded the opportunity to maximise their potential without fear or restrictions. That has been my life’s purpose, and I am humbled by this recognition of my efforts in that regard,” Minister Grange said. “I thank the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association for this award. I am honoured and truly grateful.”

The award was presented at the recently concluded 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Barbados, affirming Minister Grange’s leadership as a regional advocate for equality and inclusion.