Lendell Layman did more than simply relocate to Cayman — he devoted himself to making it a better place.
Born and raised in Wellesley, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston, Lendell Layman graduated from Holderness School for Boys in New Hampshire and then moved to Atlanta to attend college. Driven by his desire to help others, Len joined the U.S. Air Force in the late 60s. After he completed his military service, he returned to Atlanta to finish his education at Georgia State University.
Looking for a little adventure, he took a dive trip to the Cayman Islands in the early 80s and was hooked — so much so that he came back several times before he decided to call the islands home.
When did you move to the Cayman Islands?
In the fall of 1991 I had the opportunity to take a three-month job in the dive industry on the Sister Islands. So, I moved to Cayman Brac that fall and have called Cayman home ever since; I’ve never regretted a moment of it.
What do you love most about the Cayman Islands?
The people and the sense of community that exists has always amazed me. When you add to that the amazing mix of people and cultures that live and work here it is almost impossible not to love Cayman.
How have the islands changed for you over the last 20 years?
Cayman has changed a lot in the almost 20 years I have lived here. There has been a lot of development and with that comes both benefits and problems.
In the 80s and early 90s, Cayman was respected as a leader for protecting its ecology. We need to make sure that we regain that environmental stewardship we were famous for.
These islands are special to me because of the influence they have had on my life. I don’t think I could ever repay the joy and happiness that I have found here. Most of that comes from learning to focus outward not inward, and the people I have met and worked with here taught me that.
What made you choose to become a community activist?
I don’t think becoming a community activist is a choice that an individual consciously makes. For me, my membership in Rotary Central exposed me to the rewards of helping others. That led to my speaking out about the injustice of domestic abuse, the need to help the victims and the need to educate the community about this problem.
I never really looked at myself as an activist, but the more I think about it I guess the difference between a volunteer and activist is an activist speaks passionately about things that they consider to be wrong and helps to provide answers to those problems.
You were recently awarded Certificate and Badge of Honour (Cert. Hon.) by the Cayman Islands Government for your services to the community. What did you do when you heard the news?
I know a lot people who know me will find this hard to believe, but I was speechless. I didn’t know what to say. The fact that someone felt my efforts in the community warranted a nomination was overwhelming, but to actually be selected was mind boggling.
I was also a bit embarrassed. I have worked with and been influenced by some truly wonderful and dedicated people, all of whom give selflessly to help the people of Cayman. Their contributions, I feel, make mine pale in comparison.
In 1999, you were asked to represent Rotary Central on the local steering committee for the Caribbean Association for Feminist Research and Action (CAFRA). Was this a defining moment, in your opinion, for Cayman’s fight against domestic abuse?
CAFRA called together interested people from all sectors of the Cayman Islands — service clubs, churches, NGOs and government agencies. We all assembled together in one place for the first time, and we cared deeply about the problem.
It was this gathering of like-minded, dedicated people that moved us forward in a direction that has changed our society significantly in this area. So, yes, in that respect it was a defining moment.
This is not to detract from the efforts of those that laid the groundwork, but rather it was the catalyst that took things to the next level. It was also a great example of how people working together can accomplish a lot more than individuals trying to institute change on their own.
You work full time, you are a volunteer, father and grandfather. When you find “downtime,” is there anything special you enjoy doing?
I love woodworking, particularly wood turning and making wooden flutes. Spending time on my back porch workshop is my way of escaping and relaxing. I also try to enjoy a couple of rounds a week of golf with friends.
What is your most memorable moment?
Every time I see my daughter with my granddaughters I can’t help but feel overwhelming pride in her.
She accompanied me to the Queen’s Birthday Ceremony and in the car afterwards remarked that she felt very lucky to have a dad who she could be proud of. It may have been a small observation to her, but it is very memorable to me.
What would you like to be remembered for?
Just to be remembered would be great all by itself. But I guess when it all comes down to it, I would like to be remembered as an individual who enjoyed life and who made a difference in the lives of others.
I’m certain many look to you as a role model. Who would you say is your role model?
Well, I’d be honoured to be considered a role model. I hope that my path has shown people how giving back to one’s community can change people’s lives.
As for my role model, it is difficult for me to single out any one individual who influenced me or served as a role model. There are many over the years that have helped to direct me to where I am now. To single out anyone would be to forget someone else.
Have you always been a people person?
Simple answer to this is yes. I have always enjoyed and felt comfortable around people.
If you could give advice that people would actually listen to and take to heart, what would it be?
Two things: First, don’t be silent about those things that you feel are important.
Second, and most important, find a way to give of yourself to help others. The rewards of doing so will enrich your life in ways you can never imagine.
Source: caymanairwaysmagazine.com