Seven Belizeans Receive New Year’s Honours

Seven notable Belizeans, who have contributed to Belize’s development, are this year’s recipients of awards bestowed by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth the Second. The announcement of the appointments to the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George and the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire came earlier today from the Office of the Governor General. For his contribution to entrepreneurship and the community, Sean Feinstein has been appointed to be a Companion of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Civil Division. Acting Chief Justice, Michelle Arana is honoured for her contribution to the field of law and public service; while, Gordon Roe for his contribution to entrepreneurship and the community. Both were honoured as Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (O.B.E). Honoured as Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (M.B.E.) are Florencia Castillo, for her contribution to the community, Dr. Marcelo Coyi for his contribution to the medical profession and the community, Joel “Dara” Robinson for his contribution to the community, and Senator Elena Smith, for her contribution to education and unionism. News Five spoke with Dr. Coyi, who said he was surprised when one of his medical colleagues sent the press release to him this morning.

Marcelo Coyi

Dr. Marcelo Coyi, Recipient, M.B.E. Recognition

“I was still in my office, in my consultation room and I read it and it said “for contribution to the medical profession and community” so I began to think, noh. It was unexpected, and yes, I’ve spent all of my professional life in Belize. I came back in 1980 and worked as a medical officer. I went back to study as an obstetrician and I came back in 1988 and so I gave about thirteen years of my life to the public service. And I knew initially when I began to work as a specialist, I was the only obstetrician for the country of Belize, working at the old Belize City Hospital on Eve Street.”