The Rotary Club of St Andrew on Tuesday, February 18 honoured CEO of GraceKennedy Financial Group (GKFG) Grace Burnett and Retail Sales & Customer Service Representative at Loshusan Supermarket McCory Edward for their exemplary professionalism at the annual Orville Walker Vocational Service Awards held at The Courtleigh Hotel.

This prestigious award recognises individuals who embody Rotary’s motto, ‘Service Above Self’, through their outstanding contributions to their industries and communities.

Burnett, who prepares to retire from her role at GKFG later this year, has led an illustrious career in the financial services marked by “an unparalleled record of triumph”, according to the local service organisation. While noting that her impact has been “transformative”, the club added that Burnett is known for her expertise in strategic management, team building, coaching, and mentoring, as well as “her dedication to ethical leadership and community service”.

Burnett has served over 20 years at GraceKennedy Group, playing a critical role in the evolution of the financial services sector.

“As the first female CEO of GraceKennedy Financial Group (GKFG), she has led groundbreaking innovations, spearheaded rebranding efforts, and championed customer satisfaction programmes that have positioned GKFG as a leader in the financial sector. Holding over twenty board positions, Grace has not only shaped corporate strategy but has also mentored and developed a new generation of leaders,” a release from the Rotary Club of St Andrew outlined.

Burnett holds a Certificate in Leadership from Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, a Certificate of Legal Education at the Norman Manley Law School, and is a chartered insurer. No stranger to community service, she has held prestigious positions including a director of Friends of the Hope Institute, board governor of United Way of Jamaica, chair of the Women’s Leadership Initiative, among others.

In receiving the award, Grace Burnett reflected on her career and the significance of mentorship.

“What has been the absolute pleasure of my life is the people whose lives I’ve been able to impact along my journey. Pouring into others as others have poured into me has been the most rewarding part of my career,” she stated.

Burnett has earned numerous accolades for her leadership and community impact, including the 2024 Leadership Excellence Award from the Insurance Association of Jamaica.

‘A testament to excellence and perseverance’

Recognising Edwards for his exceptional dedication to customer service, work ethic, and profound impact on his community, the Rotary Club of St Andrew says the retail sales at customer service representative’s life is proof that “hard work and integrity can transcend all barriers”.

While noting that Edwards’ story is “A Testament to Excellence and Perseverance”, the organisation chronicled that he rose from humble beginnings in the inner-city community of Grants Pen in St Andrew, where he sold guineps on the roadside.

Beginning his career at Loshusan Supermarket in 2006 as a warehouse assistant, Edwards quickly rose through the ranks, earning promotions that led to his current role as Customer Service Representative and a key member of the store’s management.

“McCory’s exceptional customer service skills have made him a household name among Loshusan’s clientele. Known for his proactive approach, problem-solving skills, and genuine care for customers, he has redefined the retail experience. His leadership is evident in the way he mentors younger employees, ensuring that the next generation carries forward his high standards of service and integrity,” the club outlined.

“Beyond his professional success, McCory has remained deeply committed to giving back to his community. He has organised back-to-school drives, supported youth sports programmes, and provided assistance to the elderly. His mentorship of young men in Grants Pen has made him a role model, proving that success is not defined by where you start, but by how you persevere,” it continued.

Edwards reflected on his journey during his acceptance speech.

“Receiving the Orville Walker Service Award proves that no matter where you start in life, you can achieve anything with God’s grace, hard work, and dedication. It also shows that no matter where you come from, you can be that change,” he said.

Edwards’ personal motto, ‘Service Above Self’, is one he unknowingly lived by long before learning that it was also Rotary’s guiding principle.