Ambassador Aubrey Webson Awarded Honorary Doctorate for Groundbreaking Global Advocacy and Disability Rights Leadership

Ambassador Aubrey Webson Honored with Doctor of Laws at UWI Five Islands Graduation

His Excellency Dr. Walton Alfonso Aubrey Webson, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus in a graduation ceremony that celebrated his exceptional contributions to global advocacy, education, and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities.

Introduced by Dr. Andrea Vera, who delivered the citation on behalf of the UWI Senate and Council, Dr. Webson was praised for his unwavering determination and resilience. Born in English Harbour, Antigua, and blind since childhood, Dr. Webson has spent his life defying the limitations often imposed on individuals with disabilities. His accomplishments span across continents and disciplines, encompassing advocacy for the blind, educational development, and global leadership.

Dr. Vera eloquently narrated Webson’s early life, describing a shy young boy who, despite his blindness, refused to be constrained by his disability. Raised with love and support from his family, Webson’s journey exemplifies the principle of “disability is not inability.” His advocacy began during his formative years in Trinidad and Tobago, where he fought for the rights of the blind and made a name for himself within the Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association. By the age of 18, his leadership qualities were evident as he was offered the opportunity to manage the association.

However, Webson’s love for his home country never wavered. Returning to Antigua, he continued his advocacy, partnering with notable figures like Visi Bird to institute reforms for persons who are blind. His contributions to the Anglican Young People Association and his community leadership, including his unexpected role as coach of a netball and football team, left many astonished by his keen sense of direction and vision—both literal and figurative.

Dr. Webson’s international contributions are equally remarkable. His work with the Caribbean Council for the Blind, where he served as the first Chief Executive, paved the way for educational programs for visually impaired children in Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He also worked extensively across Africa with Sightsavers International UK, establishing educational and rehabilitation programs in Burkina Faso, Tanzania, and Uganda. His leadership at Perkins International, where he became the first black and blind Chief Executive, further expanded his global reach, allowing him to spearhead initiatives in deaf-blind education and national disability policy formulation.

Ambassador Webson’s current role at the United Nations, where he has led Antigua and Barbuda’s efforts in green energy, social services, and the inclusion of disadvantaged and disabled individuals, is a testament to his lifelong dedication to improving lives. His leadership in chairing the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and his recent contributions to the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) IV Conference and the development of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) demonstrate his commitment to both national and global advancement.

Described as possessing a “Superman Syndrome” by his wife, Rosemary, Webson’s sense of duty, compassion, and resilience has defined both his personal and professional life. In addition to his international achievements, he has been a source of support for family, friends, and students alike, opening his home to those in need and providing resources for blind children and sick individuals.

As the UWI Five Islands Campus recognized Dr. Webson’s achievements, the Chancellor conferred the Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, on his birthday, marking a special day of celebration for the man who has dedicated his life to making the world a more inclusive and equitable place.

Dr. Webson’s acceptance of the honorary degree serves as a reminder that, through perseverance and dedication, extraordinary achievements are possible—regardless of the challenges one may face.

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