Gathered to serve the needs of the students of Bull Bay Infant and Primary School are (from left) Lanceford Grant, education officer at the Ministry of Education and Youth’s Region 2; Esther McFarlane-Smith, school principal; Jodi Bernard Kerr, board chair; Terri-Kay McKoy Holmes, academics staff rep to the board; Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation; Tanisha Miller, acting on behalf of the executive director of the Early Childhood Commission; Karlene DeGrasse Deslandes and Yashieka Blackwood-Grant, acting director of Regional Educational Services, Region 2 and two students (front row) after signing a memorandum of understanding for the renovation of the infant section of the St Thomas-based institution.
DIGICEL FOUNDATION has signed three groundbreaking memoranda of understanding (MoUs) to transform the educational landscape in Jamaica by supporting three prominent institutions in their quest for excellence and inclusivity.
RENOVATION OF THE HOPE VALLEY EXPERIMENTAL SPECIAL EDUCATION CENTRE, ST ANDREW
The first MOU heralds a transformative chapter for the Hope Valley Experimental Special Education Centre in St Andrew. The Digicel Foundation is committed to funding the renovation of the school’s special education unit, ensuring it become a beacon of inclusive education for children with special needs.
As part of the scope of works, Digicel Foundation will be renovating the classrooms, bathrooms, the kitchen area, fixing a leaking roof and revamping the outside play area.
Christina Addington, education officer in the Ministry of Education and Youth’s Special Education Unit expressed gratitude to Digicel Foundation for its continued support in education. She said, “We really have to say thank you because the work that is being done is needed. The ministry does not always have the money to get what is needed to be done, so we really are appreciative of what is to come, and we know what has been done in the past. A big thank you to Digicel Foundation.”
ESTABLISHMENT OF A SMART ROOM AT THE MORANT BAY PRIMARY SCHOOL IN ST THOMAS
Digicel Foundation has collaborated with Morant Bay Primary School in St Thomas to establish a smart room to facilitate digital literacy and technological advancement for the students. This initiative underscores the foundation’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering the future leaders of Jamaica.
Morant Bay Primary’s Smart Room will be outfitted with 12 laptops, 12 tablets, a smart board, and a printer. A smart lock with also be installed for safety.
RENOVATION OF THE EARLY CHILDHOOD INSTITUTION AT THE BULL BAY INFANT AND PRIMARY SCHOOL IN ST THOMAS
Digicel Foundation will be renovating Bull Bay Infant and Primary School in St Thomas. The project is designed to assist the school in meeting the certification standards set by the Early Childhood Commission, ensuring that young learners receive the best possible start to their educational journey.
Jodi Bernard Kerr, board chair at Bull Bay Infant and Primary, said, “We are happy to see this investment being made for our children at the early childhood level. It is truly important that we get this certification as the development of the young minds at the school can only get better from here.”
Charmaine Daniels, CEO of Digicel Foundation, shared, “We believe in the transformative power of education and are honoured to partner with these institutions. We are excited to contribute to the growth and development of these schools, ensuring that they provide the best educational experience for their students.”
The signing ceremonies took place on October 21, marking the beginning of a journey towards improved educational facilities and opportunities for students in these communities.
The plaudits and announcements this week are a reminder that we can never give up.
Jamaican people do not venture out in the rain, so when we saw the turnout for Grace Baston’s retirement from Campion College, for Howard Mitchell’s Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) Hall of Fame induction, and for Ibo Cooper’s thanksgiving service, we knew that they had stamped their names in the hearts of their fellow Jamaicans.
Great and Godly Grace Baston
Grace Baston
I remember my late brother-friend Father Jim Webb, former chair of Campion College School Board, acting as if he had won the Super Lotto when he related that Baston had accepted his invitation to be principal of Campion. “Actually,” chuckled Baston, “he asked me to ‘hold the fort’ and that was 18 years ago.” Father Jim said he wanted her to help build God’s kingdom in her leadership of the high school, and so she did, throwing herself into the educational and spiritual development of the school, showing respect to all denominations and religions.
“We pause and appreciate this moment, where we can acknowledge that Christ has always been the identity of Grace, that Christ has been the identity of Campion, that Christ is our identity and it is through that identification with Christ that all work flows,” said homilist Father Roger Graham at the Mass in honour of Baston.
The former Sister of Mercy, graduate and principal of Convent of Mercy Academy “Alpha”, Baston has lived “the good and true” of the mercy charism, even as she insisted on discipline and respect from her charges. Baston is multilingual, a talented singer and musician, and for one of her annual principal’s reports, she did a dancehall version, complete with DJ, music, and her flagman.
But there can be no rest for our dynamic, charismatic Baston. Now she has accepted the chairmanship of Citizen’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE), the brainchild of her mentor Father Jim. The day after her big celebration, Baston was in our office with Campion chair and CAFFE Board Director Anton Thompson to discuss the recruitment of CCRP members as CAFFE volunteers. Blessings to you our irrepressible, unstoppable Gracie!
PSOJ Hall of Famer Howard Mitchell
Howard Mitchell
After the glowing PSOJ citation was read by his colleague Richard Pandohie, Howard Mitchell was gracious in his thanks, but commanding in his challenge to the impressive gathering of political and private sector leaders.
The citation spoke of attorney-at-law Mitchell’s service “on as many as 14 statutory boards, representing industries ranging from agriculture to mining. To those assignments he gave the same level of energy, dedication, and acuity that he had in his corporate positions”. His creation of the Sports Development Foundation (SDF) brought new opportunities to Jamaica’s sporting aspirants.
A man of “unimpeachable integrity”, in the words of PSOJ President Metry Seaga, the citation noted “his role in establishing, in 2017, the Jamaica Accountability Meter Portal (JAMP)… dedicated to fostering a more engaged citizenry and improving public accountability and service delivery”. Howard has given his “time, treasure, and talent to the St Patrick’s Foundation, Mustard Seed, and the Issa Trust Foundation”.
As PSOJ president from 2017 to 2019, Mitchell “either led or significantly influenced the development of far-reaching and, in fact, transformative policy positions and initiatives on crime management and national security, financial and general accountability in the public and private sectors, disaster preparedness… and environmental stewardship”.
As chairman of the National Health Fund (NHF) during the COVID-19 pandemic, “Mitchell was integral to Jamaica, even having a COVID vaccine programme”, sharing kudos with the able and dedicated NHF team.
Mitchell began his reply, sharing, “I am the sum total of the careful socialisation by my blessed parents, the calm and patient guidance of my wife Linda, the loyal and somewhat bemused love and affection of my two daughters, Erin and Kirsten… I have been blessed by the mentorship and example of my dear departed friend Raymond Chang and more recently by the inspiring friendships with people, such as Howard Hamilton, Leighton McKnight, Peter Moses, Owen Ellington, Butch Hendrickson, Chris Zacca, Glen Christian, Dr the Honourable Christopher Tufton, Michael and Thalia Lyn, who every day strengthen my belief in the essential decency of mankind.”
He joked, “My best friend since childhood, Dr Aggrey Irons, perhaps became a psychiatrist because of his perceived need to care for me.”
He lauded Jamaica’s successes but raised a red flag. “But… I put it to you that we are in grave danger of failure as a nation, as a society, as a community of souls. We are hell-bent on self-destruction because of our culture of selfish and divisive tribalism, which steadfastly ignores value unless it is clothed in green or orange.”
He warned, “We practice the doctrine of divide and rule that was practised upon us for many years past by our slave masters and refuse to acknowledge the damage that we now do to our future… we steep ourselves in the culture of piracy and mayhem and theft, which is so ingrained in our beginnings but will be the cause of the end of us as a functional society.”
He challenged, “We must demand to participate with the State in building a nation… with ethical principles and energetic and constant consideration for the upliftment of all of us… Not just 50 per cent on a rotating basis, according to our tribe.”
As he called for a ‘Values and Attitudes’ campaign, Mitchell noted to Prime Minister PJ Patterson, who was in attendance, “Yes, Prime Minister Patterson, I know it’s not an original thought… but it’s a thought that has never been given a chance… Jamaica suffers from a massive vacuum of communal beliefs.”
Congratulations, Howard. We hope that all of us who gave you a standing ovation will stand up for the principles which have been the foundation of your life’s work.
Farewell, Ibo Cooper
There was an outpouring of love and respect as Jamaicans mourned the passing of the legendary musician and educator Michael “Ibo” Cooper.
Co-founder of the acclaimed Third World band, Cooper has been composer, performer, and mentor in our creative landscape. The hard-working, caring father was lauded by his three children. His youngest, Akiri, said “Ibo” stood for “intelligence, benevolence, and obedience”.
State minister Norman Dunn has announced that the recording studio at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, where Cooper taught and guided students since 1997, will be named in his honour.
It had been a heartbreaking year for Cooper, who had lost his son Arif in March and his wife of 50 years, Joy, in September. May they rest in peace.
STGC Old Boys’ Annual Awards
Herman Athias, retired business executive and IT expert; Christopher Berry, Mayberry Investments, executive chairman; and Deacon Oswald Tai will receive the prestigious Monsignor Gladstone Wilson Award this Saturday.
The annual event is hosted by the St George’s College Old Boys’ Association (STGCOBA), which has stated that the three awardees “have all given excellent service to the STGCOBA and the wider society in the fields of banking, business, and finance”. Heartiest congratulations to them.
Ruel Grant (left) and Keith Nugent (Photo: Karl Mclarty)
Yes, it was a hot morning, but the joy of family and friends made it all worth it for those of us who attended the Ceremony of Investiture and Presentation of National Honours and Awards at King’s House last Monday.
Members of the clergy, business leaders, musicians, teachers, nurses, volunteers, members of the uniformed groups — how we applauded. Seeing Marcia Griffiths receiving the Order of Jamaica brought many to their feet.
Some were little known, but their bravery was deservedly recognised. Last April Ruel Oliver Grant, a farmer in St Thomas, and internal auditor Keith Yorke Angello Nugent were presented with the Badge of Honour for Gallantry. The citation read: “In the face of grave danger, saving the lives of four females from a burning motor vehicle that exploded minutes later.”
Jamaica Observer Senior Staff Reporter Alicia Dunkley-Willis interviewed the two gentlemen after the presentations. “Both men say the memories of that day will be hard to lay to rest due to the fact that they were unable to save [the driver], 58-year-old Patrisha Brown, a former resident of Warner Street, Port Maria, in St Mary, who remained trapped despite their valiant efforts to free her.”
Tears for a gallant son: Jamaica Fire Brigade Assistant Superintendent Garnett Douse kisses the Medal of Honour for Gallantry which was on Monday posthumously conferred on his 25-year-old son Larenzo. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
She quoted Grant: “I was driving behind a car, but the road had some very sharp corners, so I didn’t really see the car while I was driving, but I knew it was in front of me. When I went around a left-hand corner I see the car capsize in the road. I was seeing the wheels, so I reversed and parked on a side of the road. I ran over and pushed the back door up. I tried the front door, [but] it wouldn’t open, it was closed. When I pushed up the front door, the weight of it brought it back down on me so I pushed it again with more force. I saw people inside cuddled up, crying.”
She noted: “He said in running to get his phone to summon cops he saw Nugent, who had also been driving along the roadway. Mi seh to him, ‘Some people inna di car.’ When mi look in the front of the car, the engine was on fire so he came and was helping. Some other people came, because there was a funeral going on in the district, so we pulled them out — one by one. We pulled out four persons.”
Nugent described for Dunkley-Willis the drama of rescuing the fourth person: “I was trying… Then I started to feel the heat on my chest and I ran off too because I started to hear my wife and aunt screaming, ‘Come! It’s going to blow, ‘ so I ran off. But when I looked, she was standing [in the car]. And the image of her standing there and the thought of her perishing was too much, so I turned back again and I called out, and Mr Grant and one of the first ladies to get out of the car came back and the three of us were able to get her out.”
Another moving moment was Jamaica Fire Brigade Assistant Superintendent Garnett Douse who, on behalf of his late son, Lorenzo Douse, received his Medal of Honour for Gallantry. He had a hard time keeping his composure and kissed his son’s medal. Young Douse, also a firefighter, had been mowed down by a car driven off the road when he was turning off the pump after extinguishing a fire at the Ocho Rios Pier last November.
Wayne Mitchell, his mom Paulette (centre) and wife Tami (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
Well-deserved, Wayne Mitchell, OD
Every year we hear criticisms about the choice of people being honoured. Perhaps the critics do not understand the process by which the recipients are selected. One can go online to the Jamaica Information Service website to download a nomination form, complete it, then either mail or deliver to the division which deals with national honours at the Office of the Prime Minister.
There is a selection committee which evaluates the nominations and then recommends those suitable for national honours. There are still many unsung heroes in Jamaica, so I suggest that the critics look around and see who they can nominate.
Let me say that I applaud the selection of Wayne Mitchell for the Order of Distinction. Because of his youthful appearance, it is hard to believe that he has been in the music business for over 20 years, creating popular dancehall and gospel songs. His Glory to God with Ryan Mark and Tessanne Chin is a classic, gaining 3.9 million views to date on YouTube.
He and his wife Tami have created the successful YouTube series Meet the Mitchells, portraying healthy family life and showing love and respect to their household worker. Mitchell ascribes his success to hard work and consistency, “It is not just about the music, it’s about character.”
He shared, “I am happy that my mother is alive to see this. Nobody is prouder than she is.” His mother, my schoolmate Paulette Mitchell, and her late husband, Wycliffe Mitchell, have raised a strong family. Congratulations to her for nurturing a son who has become a role model for fatherhood as well as an accomplished artiste. Kudos to you, Wayne Mitchell. Let no one rain on your parade.
National Day of Spain
We gathered last week to celebrate the National Day of Spain hosted by Ambassador Diego Bermejo Romero de Terreros and his wife Julia de Bermejo. He serves as Ambassador of Spain to Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Dominica, and St Kitts and Nevis. The ambassador remarked on Spain’s continued investment in Jamaica’s tourist industry and expressed his commitment to our developmental initiatives.
Spanish hotel operators in Jamaica include the Grand Palladium, RIU, Secrets, Iberostar, Excellence, H10, Melia, and Bahia Principe. State minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Alando Terrelonge thanked the ambassador and his Government for their strong partnership with Jamaica. It is remarkable that the Spanish hoteliers plan to build 2,000 houses for hotel workers. Our outstanding hotel workers deserve no less.
The Spanish Foundation of Jamaica continues to sponsor educational, environmental, cultural, and community development initiatives. These include support for Spanish teaching and learning, Project Star and the Social Development Commission as well as empowerment of young women.
Invest in Braille
In celebration of Blind Awareness Month this October, media personality and author Dr Terri-Karelle Reid has teamed up with the Digicel Foundation to launch a campaign aimed at improving the educational prospects of blind and visually impaired students in Jamaica.
Dubbed Follow the Trail, Invest in Braille, the focus of the partnership is to address the severe shortage of Braille machines at the Salvation Army School for the Blind, Jamaica’s only school for the blind and visually impaired. Currently, there are only 26 Braille machines available to serve the over 130 students enrolled at the institution.
So far, several companies and individual donors have committed to the initiative, including NCB Foundation, Sandals Foundation, Hospiten, INAMI Management Services Limited, and Pia Baker. Please join them and assist our blind students.
With the Companies (Amendment) Act 2023 which came into being on April 1st of this year, all companies, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are now faced with stricter requirements. They are mandated to ‘appoint an officer who shall be responsible for conducting verification of Beneficial Ownership information’, to confirm the location of such documents and would be liable for fines of up to J$5 million if such arrangements are not put into place.
Attorney-at-Law Camille Facey
Attorney-at-Law Camille Facey of FaceyLaw and Chair of the PSOJ Governance Committee, explained that these amendments “were made in accordance with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), as Jamaica was in danger of being blacklisted by the FATF. The main revisions relate to the beneficial ownership of companies.”
The FATF comprises 20 countries which, on inspection of countries’ activities in money laundering and terrorist financing, will rate their status. Jamaica is on the FATF ‘grey list’, and we are ‘blacklisted’ by the UK and EU. In order to protect our country’s status, it is said that the amendments were made hurriedly, derived from international legislation and not wholly suited for domestic application. There are now appeals to make further amendments.
Camille Facey shared important points from the current amendments: “Every company must:
• keep documents relating to members/ beneficial owners for not less than 7 years.
• notify the Companies Office of where the Register of Members is kept.
• notify the Registrar of Companies of any changes to the beneficial ownership information, the Register of Members or registered office within 14 days of the change.
• record the measures taken to verify beneficial ownership information as well as any supporting documents used in the verification process.
The powers of the Registrar have also been expanded to inspect companies and verify beneficial ownership information.”
There have been appeals from MSEs to reduce fines and licensing fees, as these may not only drive them out of business, but also may be a deterrent for the creation of new businesses.
Camille Facey recommends that company officers acquaint themselves with the amended legislation by reading the following on the Companies Office website:
Many thanks to her for her guidance as she reminds, “there is still liability, whether directors/ officers /employees are not aware; have nothing to do with the collection of information or have taken reasonable steps to ensure compliance.”
Top Marubeni Scholar Rochelle Stephen and fellow Scholar Daniel McGregor (left) in conversation with Mohamed Majeed (2nd right), Managing Director of Caribbean Operations for Marubeni Power International and Damian Obiglio, Senior Vice-President, Marubeni Power International.
Marubeni-UWIDEF Scholars shine
Marubeni Power International in collaboration with the UWI Development and Endowment Fund (UWIDEF) awarded scholarships to five students pursuing Engineering degrees at the University of the West Indies Mona campus: Brianna Smith, Daniel McGregor, Martin McDonald, Dwight Simpson and top performer Rochelle Stephen.
At last Wednesday’s presentation ceremony, Managing Director of Caribbean Operations for Marubeni Power International Mohamed Majeed praised the exceptional quality displayed by the five recipients. “We commend your accomplishments thus far and anticipate the impact you will undoubtedly have as you progress both academically and in your future careers,” he said.
His Excellency Yasuhiro Atsumi, Japanese Ambassador to Jamaica, in his address,
said all Japan stood in support of the development efforts of the Jamaican Government
and people for continued progress. He said he looked forward to many more acts of support for Jamaica’s development both on the part of Marubeni as well as the Government of Japan.
Reynold Scott, Board Director of UWIDEF urged the students to continue to excel, adding that programmes such the scholarship presentation are at the heart of the Fund’s function.
Responding on behalf of the quintet, Rochelle Stephen noted the “life-changing” nature of the scholarship. Rochelle, dressed in black, had lost her mother just a few days after she was notified of her success earlier this year. We wish this brave young lady and her colleagues continued success.
Aloun Assamba in a joyous moment with her son Domonic Strachan.
Farewell ‘Gentle Giant’ Domonic
Women who were not even acquainted with Aloun Ndombet-Assamba poured out their sympathy when they heard that her only child Domonic Strachan had passed away suddenly last month. Those who knew Domonic referred to him as a ‘Gentle Giant’. In a letter of condolence, a fellow parishioner at the Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Ocho Rios wrote of Domonic’s warm hug, saying: “I felt enveloped with love and care.” Domonic’s friends told his mother that he was their ‘rock’, always there for his friends.
We regarded Domonic as an IT geek, setting up systems for various companies, especially before 2000 when everyone was fearful of the ‘Y2K’ virus. At that time, he was in his early twenties and had not yet attended Miami Dade College where he was a student leader. While Aloun was in the UK, serving as Jamaica’s High Commissioner, her mother became seriously ill and required thrice-weekly dialysis. Domonic quit his business, as digital connectivity was then limited at the family’s Moneague homestead, and with his aunt Eleanor Wood, assisted in caring for his grandmother.
It was then that he started his journey as an innovative farmer and a central figure in the Moneague farming community where he conducted meetings and shared research findings. Aloun said he used no chemicals. The wasp nests around the Grierfield Great House played a key role in keeping his crops pest-free. His rainwater harvesting methods supplied the house and the farm where he implemented drip irrigation. He was so passionate about influencing others about farming that his farm tours became popular among CCRP seniors and schoolchildren alike.
Aloun related that during the summer holidays, Domonic was keen on ‘making memories’ for his two young sons. “He always spent quality time with them but this summer he went even further, taking them to camp by a riverside in St. Mary.”
We grieve with Aloun at the passing of her extraordinary son whose achievements belie his short 43 years. May his soul rest in peace.
Memorable events
The beautiful Temple of Light was the venue for their seventh annual “Poetry, Prose & Rhythms in the Garden.” Michael Reckord’s ‘Brief Walk Down Memory Lane’ captured the highlights of the previous events. Hosts Dr. Lilieth Nelson and Hanief Lallo guided us through the rich programme featuring poets Dr Michael Abrahams, Rev Michele Synegal and Neto Coard; amazing cellist Emily Elliott and a band that could play on any big stage, Sebastian Miller and Friends. We were charmed by the little ones, showing off in ‘Playing with Fashions’. It was good to see Professor Edward Baugh and Professor Mervyn Morris, ever supportive of our arts and culture.
Last Friday members of the Chinese Cultural Association (CCA) celebrated the Moon Festival at which guest speaker was Dr. Lei Feng, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, UWI, Mona. He shared the legend of the Moon Festival and both English and Chinese poetry evoking the romance and mystery of the moon. We were greeted by President Set Yoon Smith, past president and Jamaican Nobel Laureate Professor Anthony Chen, and Secretary Professor Ronald Young. The evening brought back fond memories of late President Dr Kai Meng Lui.
The membership of the CCA comprises Jamaicans of all ethnicities.
CCRP Living Legacy Awards recipients display their awards and citations following the ceremony on October 12, 2023 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. From left, Mr. Pixley Irons, Dr. Lilieth Nelson, Dr. Blossom Anglin Brown, Steadman Fuller. (Photo: Contributed)
The Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) honoured five outstanding Jamaicans with respective 2023 living legacy awards on Thursday (October 12) at a presentation luncheon held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston.
The honourees and the categories in which they were awarded are:
Dr Blossom Anglin-Brown for health, in memory of Syringa Marshall-Burnett;
Steadman Fuller for business, in memory of J Lester Spaulding;
Pixley Irons for philanthropy, in memory of Michael Fraser;
Lilieth Nelson for entrepreneurship, education and culture;
Dr Margaret Dingle Spence for cancer research and palliative care.
The CCRP, in a statement, indicated that Spence was unable to attend Thursday’s ceremony and will be presented at a later date.
In their responses, the recipients expressed their appreciation for being honoured and affirmed their commitment to continued service to their fellow Jamaicans.
The CCRP Living Legacy Award was created to honour individuals over 60 years old who have contributed to the growth and development of the country, going beyond the call of duty and displaying exemplary service and dedication in their fields of endeavour.
This is the tenth year that the CCRP Living Legacy Awards have been presented. The seniors organisation is pleased that the achievements of many of their honourees are finally being acknowledged as many were not known and celebrated previously.
Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism (first right) greeted passengers who were aboard the flight coming out of Kansas City while Richard Vernon, Deputy Mayor of Montego Bay looked on.
Over 100 passengers and crew arrived in Jamaica last Saturday aboard Southwest Airlines’ inaugural flight from Kansas City, Missouri in the United States to Montego Bay.
The visitors received a warm welcome at the Sangster International Airport from tourism officials, among them was Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, who expressed his appreciation for the new service to the country.
“The excitement of the passengers was amazing. This flight brings to the reality of how connected Jamaica as a destination is in the United States. We cover 18 gateways that connect us to over 100 cities across the US,” Bartlett said.
He added that as Jamaica expands its inventory with 2,000 new rooms, he is confident that Jamaica will welcome three million stopover visitors next year.
Director of Tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board Donovan White expressed his optimism for the future of tourism in Jamaica.
“This new flight to Montego Bay is symbolic of the great things to come for the tourism industry. We have achieved a lot so far, and we look forward to additional flights that will help us to reach Minister Bartlett’s projected target of five million visitors and US$5 billion in earnings by 2025,” he noted. White added that he welcomed all the passengers for the inaugural flight and expressed gratitude for the visitors making Jamaica their preferred destination to visit.
The airline will be offering non-stop weekly flights from Kansas City to the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.
Jamaica is projected to welcome 3.88 million visitors in 2023, with estimated earnings of US$4.2 billion.
CCRP Living Legacy Awards recipients at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel. From left: Pixley Irons, Dr Lilieth Nelson, Dr Blossom Anglin Brown, and Steadman Fuller.
On this National Heroes’ Day, despite distressing news, let us remember the people who continue to bring light and hope to Jamaica.
Among those who will receive national honours today are my friends, whose talent and professionalism have made our country proud. Natalie Thompson, Order of Distinction, Officer class (OD), is an accomplished cinematographer, her latest work being No Time to Die. Andrew Mahfood, Order of Distinction, Commander class (CD), is not only a business leader, as managing director of Wisynco, but also the dedicated chairman of Food For the Poor Jamaica. Arthur Hall, OD, and Earl Moxam, OD, are journalism legends. Justine Henzell, OD, is the hard-working co-founder of the Calabash Literary Festival. Kudos to colleagues PB Scott, Order of Jamaica; Neville Garrick, CD; Colette Roberts Risden, CD; Dr Edwin Tulloch-Reid, CD; Dawn Azan, OD; and Lenford Salmon, OD.
Last week CCRP honoured five stalwarts who have served beyond the call of duty: Dr Winsome Anglin Brown; Pixley Irons, OD; Steadman Fuller, CD; Dr Lilieth Nelson, CD; and Dr Margaret Dingle Spence.
Dr Brown is the former director of The University of the West Indies (UWI) Health Centre, through her leadership, the health centre was the first in the region to be named a voluntary counselling and testing centre for AIDS. She was instrumental in making The UWI the biggest blood donor group in the country. She was head of the Department of Community Health and Psychiatry and coordinator for graduate studies and research at The UWI. During the pandemic she served as deputy chair on the Campus Emergency Committee.
A former president of Lions Club of New Kingston, she unstintingly supports the blind and is a volunteer with the Foundation for International Self Help Development (FISH) clinic. She is a perennial committee member for international sporting events, including the Cricket World Cup.
A number of Jamaicans will be recognised for service to the country at the Ceremony of Investiture and Presentation of National Honours and Awards.
Fuller, an avid proponent of lifelong learning, has been a pre-eminent figure in the Jamaican book industry for almost 50 years. An entrepreneur and philanthropist, he is chairman and managing director of the nation’s leading booksellers, Kingston Bookshop. His wife of 40 years, Sonia, has been his business partner as director of administration.
Fuller has served as custos for the parish of Kingston for over 13 years. He is chairman and co-founder of the Kingston and St Andrew Development and Homecoming Foundation Limited. He is a recipient of the Mico Gold Medal Award and is chairman of the board of both the Tulloch Primary School in St Catherine and Mona High School in St Andrew. Fuller’s community outreach sees his entire staff preparing hundreds of seasonal care packages for the imprisoned as well as back-to-school bags for needy children.
Irons exemplifies mentorship, service, and community involvement, whether in his own enterprise or in his participation in a variety of service and developmental organisations. His company, Iron’s Mechanical Services, is sponsor for scores of sporting events in St Ann. Irons was also affiliated with the Land Divestment Committee and the Rural Electrification Programme as a board member.
A dedicated Rotarian, Irons received the Rotary Service Above Self award three consecutive years. He is a passionate advocate for youth development, serving on the HEART/NSTA Trust’s Management Advisory Council and other youth-oriented interventions. Irons is the volunteer convenor of the CCRP Northeast Chapter. He says none of this would have been possible without his wife and family members.
Dr Nelson is an award-winning educator, published poet, musician, and entrepreneur who possesses a dual passion for the arts as well as the sciences. She has served as musical director of the University Singers, working with musical stalwarts Noel Dexter and Marjorie Whylie, among others. On the science side, Dr Nelson was a beloved teacher of chemistry and general science in Jamaica and The Bahamas.
Dr Nelson’s invaluable contribution to Jamaica’s energy sector includes the production of the Energy Coordinators Handbook for the Ministry of Mining and Energy in 2012. She has also served as managing director of Jamaica Laboratory & Industrial Suppliers Limited. She is the dynamic president of the Business and Professional Women’s Club, Jamaica branch.
Dr Spence, renowned expert in both clinical oncology and palliative medicine, has brought relief and dignity to Jamaica’s cancer patients. She is the senior medical officer of the Hope Institute Hospital, Jamaica’s only dedicated oncology and palliative care unit. She is also an associate lecturer in the Department of Medicine at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica, and is currently the acting head of the Department of Radiotherapy at the Kingston Public Hospital.
Dr Spence’s fellowship in international pain policy at the University of Wisconsin focused on improving opioid accessibility in Jamaica, resulting in the immediate release of morphine tablets in 2012, not previously available.
She is currently working with the medical school at The University of the West Indies to develop a diploma in palliative medicine and to have palliative care medicine recognised as a medical specialty in Jamaica.
Farewell, dear Heather
Heather Arnella (right) and her daughter Dr Aimee Norman
We said a fond farewell to a star of the Digicel family, Heather Arnella (nee Hodgson) last week. Heather will always be the truest expression of active love. She was a lady of brief words but countless generous deeds.
Heather served as chairperson of the Governance Committee for the Digicel Jamaica Foundation and led by example. She travelled extensively as the group administrator for Digicel and was the go-to person not only in Jamaica but for the company’s international locations. Nevertheless, she remained humble and approachable. She respected everyone and stood up for humble folks. No wonder there has been such an outpouring of love for this warm-hearted lady who found time for everyone.
How she managed so many projects and still maintained her joy of life was amazing. Our dear fashionista friend Heather always carried herself beautifully, but it was her inner beauty that made her shine even brighter.
Her love of family, especially her dear daughter Dr Aimee Norman, and her mother Sybil Hodgson, was inspiring. She adored her grandchildren and would flash out photos on her phone as soon as anyone asked about them.
At the thanksgiving service, the tributes of Digicel Chair Denis O’Brien; CEO Oliver Coughlan; a reading by her son-in-law Evangelist Renaldo Norman; the blessings of Rev Al Miller, her pastor; and the music of Ashe brought comfort to family and friends.
Tisha Wilson, IGT’s Administrative Supervisor, and youngsters at SOS Children’s Village Barrett Town display some of the books donated by the IGT team on Friday, September 22, 2023. Standing at the back of the room are house mothers Marcia Whyte (left) and Juliet Campbell. (Photo: Contributed)
Hewitt Walker, SOS Children’s Village director, is impressed with the progress of his residents after a comprehensive upgrade by International Game Technology (IGT) of their After School Advantage (ASA) computer lab at SOS Barrett Town, St James.
“Previously, students lacked convenient access to information to complete their assignments but now we are grateful to have a dedicated space where the residents can efficiently access resources needed for their academic tasks,” said Walker.
Generous donation
SOS Barrett Town was first equipped with an IGT ASA computer centre in 2013. In a recent upgrade, the company replaced previously installed desktop systems with 10 brand-new laptops equipped with updated software. In addition, IGT has provided a laptop storage cabinet and versatile multipurpose printer.
In observance of International Literacy Month, representatives of IGT made a generous donation of books to SOS Barrett Town earlier this month, engaging residents in a reading session.
Hosted under the theme ‘#IGTreads,’ this initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to supporting education while emphasising the importance of literacy and reading. The theme was created for an IGT read-aloud initiative last year.
Debbie Green, IGT general manager, says she is elated to see the progress and growth in the IGT decade-long partnership with SOS Children’s Village Barrett Town under its After School Advantage programme.
“We remain committed to partnership and continued support of our centres under our After School Advantage programme, and we embrace the opportunity to nurture lifelong reading among our students, understanding that in the pages of books, we venture into a world of possibilities,” said Green.
Tisha Wilson, IGT’s administrative supervisor, along with two team members, were welcomed by a host of youngsters at the children’s village, who were thrilled to receive this book donation. Upon seeing the range of books being donated, the youngsters could not contain their excitement.
Support United Nations SDG
This positive reaction was a major goal as IGT is encouraging reading and awareness around the significance of literacy. This is also in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, and Reduced Inequalities.
“The children were just so excited,” said Wilson. “The goal is to raise awareness for reading and improve literacy among our children. With technology and the Internet, we don’t have many readers, so for me, I was very surprised when we came in and the students were picking up books to find their favourite stories – even without us planning to engage them at that level. It was heart-warming to see students still having that interest to read.”
Walker believes that this initiative has the potential to ignite a passion for reading among the residents, particularly in an era dominated by technology, where reading is less common and social media use is more prevalent.
“I think it was a very good initiative because we live in a technological age and a lot of children use technology for social media, as opposed to reading, so a donation of books to the SOS Children’s Village is a good venture. This is a very important donation because it allows the kids to be exposed to books so that they can delve into stories and read more,” said Walker.
He, too, was impressed by the reaction of the youngsters.
“I think the kids are quite happy. They are looking for the books that they like and are enjoying them so far. I am very happy to see this because this is not something that you see very often in the village,” said Walker.
Improved literacy
House mothers at SOS Children’s Village Barrett Town Juliet Campbell and Marcia Whyte were also impressed by the initiative taken by IGT. For Campbell, IGT’s push for improved literacy plays an active role in their homework sessions.
“There are times when we have problems getting books at their reading level and I see that they have received a lot of those, so we are happy for them. We will engage them with more reading in the evenings after school,” Campbell said.
“I think this initiative will enhance the children in their vocabulary and help them to know new words,” said Whyte.
IGT shows its commitment to supporting education and technology access for youth through its After School Advantage (ASA) programme. The gaming technology firm has established 15 ASA computer labs in NGO-run institutions in Jamaica, including those in SOS Children’s Village Barrett Town and Stony Hill, Mustard Seed Communities – Matthew 25:40, Spring Village Development Foundation, Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation Mandeville and Savanna-La-Mar and Sunbeam Children’s Home in St Catherine.
SOS Children’s Village Barrett Town provides an alternative home for 38 children and young adults up to 22 years old who have lost parental care. SOS Children’s Villages International comprises more than 130 national associations around the world and has helped over four million children worldwide since its inception in 1949.
Brandon Howlett, a second-year student majoring in Business Management at the University of the West Indies, is no stranger to reading citations for the CCRP Living Legacy Awards. Having been a young reader last year, he felt great when asked to do it again as it showed that his reading had been well received. With enthusiasm, Brandon is eagerly looking forward to the opportunity to read the citation for Dr Blossom Anglin-Brown, who is being honoured for her outstanding contributions in the field of health, as well as the citation for Dr Lilieth Nelson for her outstanding achievements in entrepreneurship, education, and culture.
Reading the citations for the awards will be three young adults who will bring diversity to the event and bridge the generation gap. The other young readers are Sashoi Nichols-Dobson and Shantay East.
Sashoi Nichols-Dobson
Nichols-Dobson will be reading the citation for Steadman Fuller, who is being recognised for his outstanding achievements in business and philanthropy. For Nichols-Dobson, Fuller’s achievements highlight that as a professional, one can be successful in many areas of life and not be restricted by one’s area of study.
Shantay East
East will be reading the citation for Pixley Irons, who is being recognised for his outstanding services in philanthropy and volunteerism for community development. East noted that she was elated when asked to be a young reader for the prestigious awards and is honoured to be part of something that acknowledges people like Irons, who go beyond the call of duty.
CCRP Jamaica will host its annual Living Legacy Awards on October 12 at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston to highlight five of those individuals 60 years and over who have contributed to the growth and development of the country, going beyond the call of duty and displaying exemplary service and dedication in their fields of endeavour.
The fifth honouree is Dr Margaret Dingle Spence, who is being recognised for her outstanding contributions in the fields of cancer research and palliative care. She will be unable to attend the ceremony and will be presented with her award at a later date.
This year marks the 10th staging of the CCRP Living Legacy Awards.
CCRP said it takes pride in honouring individuals who not only meet the requirements of their duties but who go above and beyond, deserving the utmost recognition. Through these awards, CCRP aims to shine the spotlight on those who truly make a difference and leave a lasting impact on their communities.
The event is sponsored by BPM Financial Limited, Cari-Med Group, Gallagher Insurance Brokers, Juici Patties, and National Baking Company.
Dr Terri-Karelle Reid (right) with Alteria Bent, a student of the Salvation Army School for the Blind on the Braille machine.
In honour of Blind Awareness Month this October, Dr Terri-Karelle Reid, a media and communications practioner, is collaborating with the Digicel Foundation to launch a campaign aimed at enhancing the educational opportunities for blind and visually impaired students in Jamaica.
The campaign, titled “Follow the Trail, Invest in Braille,” focuses on addressing the critical shortage of Braille machines at the Salvation Army School for the Blind – Jamaica’s sole school for blind and visually impaired students. Presently, only 26 Braille machines are available to serve over 130 enrolled students.
Dr Reid stated, “While we as a society discuss the importance of literacy and numeracy, we often overlook entire communities with special needs that require specialized resources to achieve literacy. Every child, whether blind or otherwise, must have access to equitable education. We are committed to ensuring that no one gets left behind.”
Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation, commenting on the partnership with Dr Reid said: “Every child has a fundamental right to quality education. We must uphold this right for our blind and visually impaired students as well. We aim to bridge the gap and empower these students with the tools they need to succeed.”
Together, Dr Reid and the Digicel Foundation hope to obtain funding from corporate Jamaica to purchase more Braille machines for the School for the Blind.
“Our goal is to provide 50 Braille machines to the school. Every donation, regardless of size, brings us closer to our objective. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of these extraordinary young individuals,” said Daniels.
Jamaica Highlights 