Mauritius Students Prize

Howard Bilton, a British-born entrepreneur and barrister, has made a multifaceted impact on tax advisory services, philanthropy, and the wine industry in Portugal and beyond. His ventures reflect a unique blend of business acumen and social responsibility, creating a lasting legacy in each sector he touches. 

Tax

As the chairman and founder of The Sovereign Group, Bilton has significantly influenced the tax landscape, particularly for expatriates and international businesses. The Group provides comprehensive tax planning and wealth management services, which help clients navigate complex tax systems. By doing so, it supports individuals and companies to optimize their tax positions within the legal framework, fostering an environment that is conducive to foreign investment and economic growth in Portugal. 

Charity

In the realm of charity, Bilton’s establishment of The Sovereign Art Foundation has made a notable impact on the local and international art scenes. The foundation not only recognizes and supports artists through awards and exhibitions but also raises substantial funds for charitable causes. A significant portion of its work is dedicated to using art as a medium for educational and healing purposes, particularly for disadvantaged children. Through these initiatives, Bilton has harnessed the power of art to make a tangible difference in the lives of many, providing both cultural enrichment and social support. 

 Wine

With Howard’s Folly, Bilton has ventured into the wine industry, intertwining the worlds of oenology and art. The winery is known for producing high-quality wines that reflect the rich terroir of Portugal, contributing to the country’s reputation as a producer of fine wines. Beyond the production, Howard’s Folly serves as a cultural destination, hosting art exhibitions and events that attract visitors from around the world. This unique concept not only promotes Portuguese wine but also elevates the cultural experience of wine tasting, setting a precedent for how wineries can engage with the arts. 

Overall Impact

Howard Bilton’s impact in the fields of tax, charity, and wine is characterized by a forward-thinking approach that leverages professional expertise to foster cultural and social development. By integrating his business endeavors with philanthropic goals, Bilton has shown that commercial success can go hand-in-hand with making a positive social contribution. His efforts have provided a model for sustainable development, showcasing how individual dedication to professional excellence and social responsibility can lead to broad and beneficial societal impacts. 

With 37 years of experience in education, my philosophy has always been to extend artistic expression beyond the four walls of the classroom. I strongly believe that art should be lived,
experienced, and shared within the wider community.

Throughout my career, I have played a key role in curriculum development, nurturing students’ artistic talents, and organising initiatives such as team-building activities. Beyond the classroom, I have been actively involved in community work and have served for several years as a team leader and examiner for the School Certificate examinations.

I am particularly passionate about engaging students in extracurricular activities, as I believe these platforms foster true growth, creativity, and lifelong learning. I remain committed to inspiring young people to develop a deep appreciation for art and its value in society. I currently serve as the Vice Chairperson of the Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also a privilege to be part of the jury for the Sovereign Art Foundation (2025– 2026). In addition, I organised and participated in an international exhibition led by the International Women Arts Foundation at the Caudan Arts Centre in October 2025.

“Everything starts from a dot.” — Wassily Kandinsky

Rooted in a childhood immersed in theatre, classical dance and fine art, my creative journey has always been shaped by rhythm and expression. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Decoration from Sir J.J. School of Arts in Mumbai, I began my career in interior design, developing a keen sensitivity to space and form. Yet it was painting and teaching that truly resonated with me.

My artistic practice centres on acrylics and mixed media, often incorporating geometric motifs inspired by sacred geometry. These universal patterns—circles, spirals, mandalas—act as
visual meditations, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary experience. Each piece reflects an intuitive response to life’s lessons and the interconnectedness of all things. I believe art is both a mirror and a guide. Through colour, texture and symbolism, I aim to create contemplative spaces that invite curiosity and connection. As a member of Carpe Diem NGO and board member of IWAF, I remain committed to using creativity as a force for community engagement and collective upliftment.

I have participated in several group exhibitions, most recently with the International Women Artists Federation in 2025, and served as a jury member for the Art Sovereign Foundation – Mauritius in 2025

Sapna Kissoondoyal is a Mauritian artist, muralist, illustrator and entrepreneur, and the founder of Sapna Gallery. Known for her vibrant use of colour and distinctive artistic style, her work celebrates the beauty, culture and heritage of Mauritius through paintings, large-scale murals and creative installations.  After studying Creative Advertising, Graphic and Digital Design in Curtin University, Sapna pursued a multidisciplinary career combining art, design and visual storytelling. Her artworks often feature iconic Mauritian elements such as the dodo, tropical flora, lagoons, regattas and local traditions, transforming everyday spaces into immersive experiences. Through Sapna Gallery, she has collaborated with hotels, schools, corporate organisations and public institutions, creating artworks that inspire, connect communities and bring colour to people’s lives. Her mission is simple: to use art as a tool to spread hope, emotion and beauty while showcasing the richness of Mauritian culture to the world. Today, her creations can be found in private collections, public spaces and international homes, carrying a little piece of Mauritius wherever they go

Educator and Head of Department in Art & Design at State Secondary School, Ministry of Education, Tertiary Education and Technology.  

Part Time lecturer at Mauritius Examination Syndicate.  

Artist participating in several National and International Art Exhibitions over the years.