From NiCE Participant to Chief Officer's Choice Award Recipient

Kris New (Deputy Director of Operations), Exie Tomlinson-Panton (Acting Chief Officer), Damion Campbell, Beanca Myles (wife), Edith Mwando (Deputy Director HR and Admin)

The Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) is proud to congratulate Disease Prevention Officer Damion Campbell on being selected as the recipient of the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability's Chief Officer's Choice Award.

The award recognises civil servants who demonstrate exceptional dedication, professionalism and commitment to serving the people of the Cayman Islands.

For MRCU, Damion's recognition is especially meaningful. His journey with the Unit began through the Cayman Islands Government's National Community Enhancement (NiCE) Programme, where he was assigned to work with MRCU. While the Unit regularly hosts participants through the programme, it quickly became apparent that Damion possessed a strong work ethic and a genuine desire to contribute.

Damion Campbell

While participating in the NiCE Programme, Damion quickly distinguished himself through his work ethic, reliability and positive attitude. When an opportunity arose to join MRCU in a temporary capacity in 2021, he applied and was selected for the position. His dedication and performance continued to impress, and in 2023 he successfully applied for and was selected for a full-time role with the Unit.

Richard Jackson (Field Supervisor), Damion Campbell, Leo Rodriguez (Ground Operations Manager) 

Today, Damion plays an important role in mosquito surveillance and control operations across Grand Cayman. He consistently exceeds performance targets while carrying out property surveys and inspections, where MRCU officers inspect residential and commercial properties for mosquito breeding sites and conditions that may contribute to mosquito activity. He also contributes to swamp surveillance activities, where mosquito breeding habitats are monitored and assessed to guide mosquito control operations, supports drone operations and aerial control activities, and regularly assists with community outreach and public education programmes.

MRCU Director Dr. Alan Wheeler said Damion's commitment to excellence and willingness to help others have made him an invaluable member of the team.

"Damion is always willing to help. He consistently goes above and beyond, is often the first to volunteer for events and activities, and approaches every task with enthusiasm and professionalism. He is bright, eager to learn, and one of the hardest working employees you could hope to have on your team.

"Whether he is carrying out property inspections, supporting aircraft operations, assisting with drone activities, or representing MRCU at public events, Damion approaches every task with the same level of dedication and professionalism. He is a tremendous asset to our organisation, and we are incredibly proud of what he has achieved."

Edith Mwando (Deputy Director HR and Admin), Exie Tomlinson-Panton (Acting Chief Officer), Damion Campbell, Kris New (Deputy Director of Operations)

The nomination for the award was submitted by Edith Mwando, MRCU's Deputy Director of Human Resources and Administration, who highlighted Damion's exceptional performance, positive attitude and dedication to serving both his colleagues and the public.

"Damion is the type of employee every organisation hopes to have," said Mwando. "He consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, a positive attitude and a genuine willingness to support others. Whether he is carrying out field operations, assisting with outreach activities, or stepping in to help a colleague, he approaches every task with professionalism and enthusiasm.

"His journey from the NiCE Programme to becoming a valued full-time member of our team is a testament to his dedication and determination. It was my pleasure to nominate him for this recognition, and I am delighted to see his hard work acknowledged."

Damion's accomplishments extend well beyond his day-to-day responsibilities. In property survey operations, where officers inspect properties for mosquito breeding sites and conditions that may contribute to mosquito activity, the standard target is 60 properties per day. Damion routinely exceeds expectations, often completing between 70 and 100 inspections daily.

He is also known for his efficiency in swamp surveillance operations. Tasks that may take other teams up to a week to complete are regularly completed by Damion and his teammate within just two days. His willingness to support additional projects once his assigned work has been completed has made him a valued member of the team.

His colleagues describe him as dependable, proactive and always willing to step forward when help is needed. Even after completing his assigned duties, Damion is known for asking what more he can do to support the team. He has also contributed to school outreach programmes, drone operations, aircraft activities, sustainability initiatives and other projects that help advance MRCU's mission.

In December 2025, Damion was recognised as MRCU's Employee of the Year, an honour that reflected the high regard in which he is held by both management and colleagues. His selection as a Chief Officer's Choice Award recipient builds on that achievement and reflects the continued excellence he demonstrates in his work each day.

Exie Tomlinson-Panton (Acting Chief Officer), Damion Campbell

Acting Chief Officer for the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability, Exie Tomlinson-Panton, said Damion's achievement reflects the qualities the Cayman Islands Civil Service seeks to foster and celebrate in its employees.

"Damion's story is an excellent example of what can be achieved through dedication, perseverance and a commitment to public service. His willingness to contribute wherever he is needed reflects the values we strive to foster across the Civil Service.

"The Government's Priorities for 2026 to 2028 place strong emphasis on building a high performing, people-centred public service, and Damion embodies those principles through his daily work and service to the community. We are proud to recognise his contributions and look forward to seeing his continued growth and success within the Cayman Islands Government."

Dr. Wheeler said Damion's success serves as an inspiration to others.

"Damion's success story is a reminder that hard work, dedication and a positive attitude can create opportunities. He continues to make MRCU proud, and this recognition is well deserved. We are excited to see what the future holds for him as he continues to grow within our organisation."

MRCU congratulates Damion on this outstanding achievement and thanks him for his continued service to the people of the Cayman Islands.