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As part of the Cayman Compass’ 60th anniversary celebration supplement that was included in the 31 Oct. edition of the newspaper, we looked at some of the differences between the Cayman Islands back in 1965 compared to today: In 1965, the Cayman Islands had a population of around 10,000 people. The islands were still relatively isolated, with limited infrastructure and a simple lifestyle. But it was a pivotal time – the beginning of its transformation into the modern financial and tourism hub it is today. The first issue of the Caymanian Weekly (which later merged with the Cayman Compass to become the Caymanian Compass) was published, providing a local voice for the community. The Mosquito Research & Control Unit was established. The Chamber of Commerce was founded, making it the first official business and professional organisation on the islands. The Rotary Club of Grand Cayman was established and chartered by Rotary International. The Cayman Islands Sailing Club was founded, the first officially registered sporting organisation in the Cayman Islands. Sir Vassel Johnson was appointed as Cayman’s first Financial Secretary, playing a key role in shaping the financial services sector. The administrator of the Cayman Islands, who was head of government at this time, was John A. Cumber, (later Sir John A. Cumber). The Cayman Islands (Constitution) Order, 1965, came into effect, replacing the previous system of governance and laying the foundation for the islands’ constitutional framework. In 2025, the estimated population of the Cayman Islands is 88,000 people – representing a 780% increase since 1965. In the last 60 years, the islands experienced incredible economic and social transformation to become a major international financial centre and top luxury tourism destination. With the launch of Compass TV in 2025, Compass Media becomes the first and only omnichannel media company in the Cayman Islands, with print, digital, radio and TV platforms. The Compass radio stations are broadcast on the Sister Islands for the first time. A general election was held 30 April, with the National Coalition for Caymanians forming the government. André Ebanks was named premier. The Governor of the Cayman Islands is Jane Owen, first appointed in 2023. Government approved an increase in its minimum wage to CI$8.75 per hour, the first increase across all sectors since minimum wage was introduced in 2016 at $6 an hour. Tourism is on the rise, welcoming 592,651 visitors in the first three months of 2025, a significant increase in both stayover and cruise arrivals compared the same period in 2024.
