September 15, 2025
They are the architects of imagination, the healers of scraped knees, and the first teachers outside the home. Yet, for years, their work unfolded in the quiet background of daily life. This past Saturday 13th September, 2025, that changed. In a landmark event at the Eden Bleu Hotel, the Institute of Early Childhood Development (IECD-UNESCO Category 2 Institute) brought the nation’s childminders into the spotlight, hosting its first-ever Excellence Award ceremony to celebrate the profound impact these caregivers have on the island nation’s future.
The evening’s top honor, the Outstanding Childminder Award, was presented to an emotional Ms. Natasha Rose of Natasha’s Childminding in English River district. Overcome with surprise, Ms. Rose dedicated the accolade to her peers.
“I share this award with all childminders,” she said, “that we continue to work well together and continue to give high quality care to our young children.”
The ceremony, timed to coincide with the observance of Early Childhood Educators’ Day, distributed awards across five major categories. The other recipients were:
- Emerging Talent: Natasia Reine
- Most Engaging Childminder: Marie-May Hoareau
- Most Innovative Practice: Ms. Daniella Savy
The Public Choice Award, determined by public vote, was won by Ms. Alice Jean, who received 326 votes out of 4,226 cast. Ms. Jean thanked her supporters, including parents and colleagues from the National Youth Service.
Beyond the public and categorical awards, a special Judges’ Choice Award was presented to six childminders who exemplified excellence in complying with the National Standards. This award specifically honored their meticulous commitment to established benchmarks in areas including Administration Child Health and Nutrition, Public Health, Safety, Early learning and Child Protection.
Standard – Administration: Brigitte Hoareau, Perseverance
Standard – Child Health & Nutrition: Alice Jean, Anse Royale
Standard – Public Health: Perushka Barallon, Grand Anse Mahe
Standard – Safety: Maureen Esther, Les Mamelles
Standard – Early Learning: Lita Antoine, Au Cap
Standard – Child Protection: Veronique Mathiot, Mont Buxton
In addition to the main awards, 14 childminders received long-service accolades for five and ten years of dedication. Among them was Ms. Daniella Savy, who shared her inspiration: “I was inspired by my late father who said that children are like a woven piece of art of different colours that you learn new things from them each day.”
The event was attended by dignitaries including First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, Speaker of the National Assembly Mr. Roger Mancienne, Minister of Education Dr. Justin Valentin, and the Chairman of the IECD Local Board among other special guests.
In her opening address, IECD CEO Mrs. Shirley Choppy underscored the critical role of childcare professionals. She placed the awards within a broader historical context, stating, “Historically, recognition of early childhood educators gained momentum in the late 20th century, emphasizing that early learning is the cornerstone of lifelong success. Tonight, Seychelles proudly affirms its commitment to this crucial sector.”
Mrs. Choppy also delivered a message from Dr. Mmantsetsa Marope, Chairperson of the IECD-UNESCO Governing Board, who praised the childminders’ decade of service. “While not everyone may walk away with a shiny trophy, remember: you are all winners. Choosing to care for children isn’t just a job — it’s a gift,” the message read.
The ceremony also featured the launch of the second issue of the *Children 1st Newsmagazine*, described by Director Shelda Commettant as a “celebratory edition.”
Looking to the future, the IECD unveiled the new logo for the next awards cycle, which will feature two stars and a new name: the **Child Care Excellence Award**. Director General Ms. Marie-France Barra announced the expanded scope of the biennial event, explaining that it will henceforth recognize not only childminders but also managers from centre-based childcare services.
The institute confirmed that the award ceremony will now be held every two years to ensure the continued public recognition of these essential early childhood professionals.
LONG SERVICE AWARD
List for 5 Years
- Jovanie Vidot
Tany’s Childminding
Grand Anse Praslin
- Lindy Amade
Lindy’s Childminding
Bel Air
- Rehema Njemase
Mema
Mont Fleuri
- Noella Radegonde
Noella’s Childminding
Union Vale, English River
- Pamela Come
Pam’s Flamingo Childminding Service
Mont Fleuri
- Suzette Sinon
Su’s Childminding Service
Anse aux pins
- Tara Hetimier
Minnie Mouse Childminding
Belonie, St Louis
- Elisette Bibi
Eli’s Daycare
Anse Reunion, La Digue
- Daniella Savy
Dannies Childminding
Mont Fleuri
LIST FOR 10 YEARS
- Emilie Lesperance
Floriana’s Day Care
Baie Ste Anne, Praslin
- Mirena Didon
Tiyaya Childminding Services
Anse Aux Pins
- Anne Marie Chang Pin Tive
Anne Marie Childminder Care
Anse Boileau
- Maureen Esther
Waterfall Childminding
Les Mamelles
- Sandra Lesperance
Sundras Care
Moulien Estate, Baie Saint Anne Praslin
Judges Choice Award
Standard – Administration: Brigitte Hoareau, Perseverance
Standard – Child Health & Nutrition: Alice Jean, Anse Royale
Standard – Public Health: Perushka Barallon, Grand Anse Mahe
Standard – Safety: Maureen Esther, Les Mamelles
Standard – Early Learning: Lita Antoine, Au Cap
Standard – Child Protection: Veronique Mathiot, Mont Buxton
