The Jamaican High Commission London - Newsletter Year in Review MESSAGE from the HIGH COMMISSIONER, H.E

The Jamaican High Commission London - Newsletter Year in Review MESSAGE FROM THE HIGH COMMISSIONER, H.E. MRS. ALOUN NDOMBET-ASSAMBA ingly popular Citizenship Ceremo- ment of the Jamaica Education nies and other outreach activities Taskforce UK (JET UK) and the were successfully undertaken International Health Group UK, and we expect to build on what both of which have been doing was achieved over the past year. extensive work. We had our usual events to mark significant milestones both here As a Mission, we are proud that and in Jamaica, and introduced we were able to have done so new initiatives like our inaugural much, notwithstanding our limited Literary Evening, which was held resources. We could not have in September. done so without your continued support and cooperation – thank The High Commission also con- you. e have come to the end tinued to participate extensively in of another hectic year at discussions with bilateral, multilat- I close by reassuring you of the the High Commission. eral and business partners both High Commission’s continued W here and in the UK, as well as in commitment to working with you We had a number of Ministerial visits over the period, witnessed the countries to which I am con- all in 2015. the launch of the Diaspora Map- currently accredited as Ambas- ping Project and supported as sador (Finland, Ireland, Norway, We expect that it will be an even well as participated in countless Denmark, Sweden and Cyprus). more exciting but challenging events put on by the Diaspora year but with your support and across the length and breadth of 2014 was also a year of important partnership, we will be able to the United Kingdom. Our increas- developments in the Diaspora, a build on the progress realised particularly with the establish- thus far. HIGH COMMISSION EVENTS

REGGAE MONTH have also celebrated his birthday INTERNATIONAL FASHION on February 6. SHOWCASE (IFS) Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs. Diedre Mills, who gave the official welcome, said Bob Marley blazed a trail that very few could have conceived for a youngster born in Nine Miles, St. Ann.

To stage, the event the High Commission collaborated once cores of music lovers braved again with the London-based the London Underground performing arts charity, UK UN- Jamaican’s participation in the Sstrike and bad weather to SIGNED, headed by Mr. John International Fashion Showcase celebrate Bob Marley’s birthday at Downie. There were performanc- (IFS) in London was formally the High Commission on February es from singer GI Joe; the poet, launched on February 12 at a glit- 6. Miraculous; saxophonist Lacelles tering reception and fashion show James; the trio, True Identity; Ay- at the High Commission. The event also paid tribute to late sha Loren; John McLean; Teejah singer Dennis Brown, whose birth- Prayze and the SLV Choir; Keith day was on February 1. A minute’s Mindlink; Cutty Williams and the Entitled ‘Threadbare,’ it fea- silence was observed for the late Ciyo Brown Trio. tured the works of five Jamaican William ‘Bunny Rugs’ Clarke of designers. The designers and the band, Third World, who would the management team from the HIGH COMMISSION’S EVENTS CONTINUED

Jamaica Business Development COMMONWEALTH DAY Among those in attendance were Corporation, including Chief Exec- COMMEMORATION officers from the Secretariat, utive Officer, Ms. Valerie Veira and On March 13, the High Commission including the Deputy Secretary Ms. Marie Casserly, Project Devel- hosted a “Discussion on the Com- General for Economic and Social opment and Implementation, also monwealth” to mark Commonwealth Development, as well as a cross hosted and participated in a series Week 2014. The keynote speaker section of High Commissioners and of workshops and seminars. was Mrs Patsy Robertson, a Jamai- staff from Commonwealth missions, can national who not only served at the Foreign and Commonwealth Of- the High Commission when it was fice, the Commonwealth Countries set up in 1962, but who was a League (organisers of the annual former Director of Information and Commonwealth Fair) and members Commonwealth Spokesperson for of the Jamaican community. many years. Currently the Chair of the Ramphal Institute, Mrs Rob- ertson reflected on the theme for Commonwealth Week 2014 - “Team Commonwealth.” The High Commissioner, who officially launched the event, said Jamaican’s participation in the International Fashion Showcase was a wonderful platform for Brand Jamaica.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY The High Commission paid special tribute to five pioneering Jamaican women, in keeping with the theme Among other things, Mrs Robertson INDEPENDENCE CHURCH of this year’s international Women’s made reference to the tumultuous SERVICE Day – ‘Inspiring Change’. discussions in the Commonwealth Nearly one thousand Jamaicans regarding apartheid and South and Friends of Jamaica attended Africa and the leadership role that the annual Service of Praise and the Commonwealth has always Thanksgiving held to commemo- played in championing issues of rate the island’s 52nd Anniversary concern to small states. She under- of Independence on July 26 at the scored the value of the camaraderie Emmanuel Centre in Westminster, among the Heads of yesteryear London. In a special message for and, with an eye on the future, chal- the service, which was read by the lenged the Commonwealth to tackle High Commissioner, Prime Minister, big international issues which will the Most Hon. Portia Simpson-Mill- resonate outside the Organization. er, ON, MP, assured Jamaicans in The women featured during a the United Kingdom (UK) of the special exhibition put on by the High In addition to High Commissioner Government’s commitment to Commission were Shirley Graham Ndombet-Assamba, His Excellen- strengthening ties with the Dias- Paul of Reading; Hartnell Camp- cy, Dr Carl B. W. Roberts, CMG, pora as part of the nation building bell of London; Councillor Norma former High Commissioner for An- process. Hutchinson of Leeds; Connie Mark tigua and Barbuda and immediate of London and Louise DaCocordia past Chair of the Commonwealth The High Commissioner, for her of Manchester. Board of Governors, also brought part, praised the UK Diaspora for remarks. The programme for the their hard work and continued dedi- evening also included the reading cation to Jamaica. of a poem entitled “Together - We March...”, penned by Ms Angela The service also acknowledged the Edwards of the High centenary of World War I and the Commission and read by Ms 70th anniversary of D-Day. There was a special performance of Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” by the group True Identity, and a special dance of praise choreographed by Jackie Guy, MBE.

The event also featured a per- The flag bearers were members formance by Birmingham based of the Jamaica Ex-Soldiers Asso- internationally renowned singer, Jaki ciation, while the officiating clergy Graham, who had the large audi- Omoyele Rosenior-Patten a 16 year were Senior Pastor Peter Loo ence rocking to some of her best old secondary school student of from the Emmanuel Evangelical known songs including “Could It Be Jamaican and Sierra Leonean Church; Chaplain to the Speaker I’m Falling in Love.” parentage. of the House of Representatives

PAGE 2 PAGE and to Her Majesty the Queen, the GRACE UKS_No1_vrs2.indd 1 10/07/2014 10:13 Rev. Rose Hudson Wilkin; General of the Diaspora at a presentation at Ellis, Universal Records Licensing Secretary of the Assembly of the the High Commission on Novem- Department; and Kwaku, Editor of First Born, Rev. Errol Vassell and ber 25 as well as in Birmingham on British Black Music.com . The Guest the Rt. Rev. Delroy Powell, National November 26. contributor was Leanne Brackett Presiding Bishop of the New Testa- A self-confessed ‘musicologist’, Min- of www.promosetgo.com, who is a ment Assembly, who delivered the ister Davies believes that Jamaica’s young Social Networking promotion- sermon. popular music, perhaps more than al expert. any other aspect of what the country has achieved, has established the JHC HOSTS FAREWELL island as ‘a super power’ despite its FUNCTION FOR size and economic status. COMMONWEALTH HIGH COMMISSIONERS “The social commentary contained On August 21, Her Excellency Aloun in the lyrics of many of the songs, Ndombet-Assamba hosted a Fare- particularly those written and re- well Reception at the High Commis- corded in the late 1960s and 70s, sion for the outgoing High Commis- have found resonance in many oth- sioner of Antigua and Barbuda, H.E. INDEPENDENCE DIPLOMATIC er countries which have, ostensible, Dr. Carl B. W. Roberts, CMG, the RECEPTION very few links with Jamaica,” said High Commissioner of the Republic The Marshall of the Diplomatic Dr Davies. “As such, people ranging of Singapore, H. E. Mr Thamby- Corps, Representatives of the from guerrilla fighters in Africa to nathan Jasudasen, and the Acting Foreign and Commonwealth inner city residents in South Ameri- High Commissioner of Barbados, Office, members of the Diplomatic ca and Asia, have all identified with Mr Donville Johnson. High Corps and scores of Jamaicans the lyrics written about oppressive Commissioner hosted her outgoing and Friends of Jamaica joined the social conditions in Jamaica. While counterpart, H.E. Mr. Garvin High Commissioner in celebrating for those living outside the island in Nicholas, High Commissioner, Jamaica’s 52nd anniversary of Inde- the Jamaican Diaspora – the US, Trinidad & Tobago, at a special pendence at a reception at the High Canada and Britain – the music dinner in March. Commission on August 5. has bonded them over the years at Cricket Legend Hon. Michael Hold- social gatherings.” CITIZENSHIP CEREMONIES ing and Actress Donna Croll were The High Commission hosted two also among the guests in attend- The Minister embarked on the citizenship ceremonies in 2014. The ance. High Commissioner, H.E. project back in 2008, when he ap- first was held on May 10 and the Aloun Ndombet Assamba who for- pointed a five-member panel which second on November 22 to recog- mally welcomed the guests, thanked included himself, Vaughan ‘Bunny’ nise UK-born persons of Jamaican them for being a part of the special Goddison; Wayne Chen, co author heritage, who take up Jamaican occasion. of the book Reggae Roots; Frankie citizenship. Campbell, founding member of the Fab 5 band; and radio presenter High Commissioner, Her Excel- Francois St Juste. lency, Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, congratulated the new citizens and While Minister Davies said the list of urged them to become involved in songs had been created to simply the development of the Jamaican to invite discussion rather than lay community in the UK. Government policy, he stressed the importance of making sure that up The Jamaican Constitution allows and coming artists were encouraged for persons born outside of Jamai- PANEL DISCUSSION ON and any intellectual property rights ca but of Jamaican parentage to REPARATIONS - BLACK protected. be certified as Jamaican Citizens. HISTORY MONTH Both Jamaica and the UK allow for Dr Robert Beckford, Professor of DISCUSSION ON THE BUSINESS dual nationality and in recent years Theology and Culture in the African OF REGGAE MUSIC a growing number of persons of Diaspora, was the moderator of a The High Commission, in collab- Jamaican heritage have been ap- special Panel Discussion on Repa- oration with local charity UK-UN- plying for certification as Jamaican rations at the High Commission on SIGNED, hosted a very informative citizens. October 30, as part of activities to and lively discussion on the Busi- mark Black History Month. The Pan- ness of Reggae Music on May 29. The first ever citizenship ceremony el included Dr Mark Ledwidge, Sen- The Discussion was moderated was held in December 2013 and the ior Lecturer in History and American by Mr. Mykaell Riley, FRSA, Head High Commission is committed to Studies and Esther Stanford-Xosei of Music Production -Universi- hosting regular ceremonies. a Reparations legal expert and ty Westminster and Programme activists. Director, Black Music Research Unit. The Panellists were John DR OMAR DAVIES Downie, UK-UNSIGNED; Keecia THE MUSICOLOGIST Dr the Hon. Omar Davies, MP, Jamaica’s Minister of Transport, Works and Housing has embarked on a musical journey to rank his country’s top 100 songs from the past 50 years. The outcome of the project was shared with members Untitled-3 1 18/09/2014 11:43 SPECIAL VISITS

ROYAL AIR FORCE MUSEUM London to be dedicated to a named celebrating its 40th anniversary. She black woman, will be erected in was accompanied by Ms. Leonie 2015. Livingstone, Minister-Counsellor, Consular and Diaspora Affairs, and The High Commissioner said that all Mrs. V. Siva, Community Relations Jamaicans are very proud of Mary Officer. Seacole and that the statue was a great honour to her. Cardiff

The campaign to erect a statue to honour Mary Seacole started in 2010. The goal was to raise High Commissioner, Her Excellency £500,000. Much of this target has Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, made a now been reached but Lord Sole- special visit to the Royal Air Force ly said that a further £90,000 was (RAF) Museum on March 19, to view needed to ensure that the Statue an exhibition about the Caribbean would be unveiled in 2015 to mark pilots and other service personnel, the 160th anniversary of Mary High Commissioner was one of the who fought for the Royal Air Force Seacole’s arrival in Crimea. featured presenters at the REMOV- (RAF) during both World Wars. ING THE DIVIDE -Respecting and The exhibition, which was unveiled on Mary Seacole, who was born in Understanding Cultures, Postgrad- November 1, was entitled:’ Pilots of Jamaica and was well known as a uate Interdisciplinary Conference the Caribbean: Volunteers of African ‘doctoress’ for her work in Jamaica 2014 hosted by Cardiff University Heritage in the Royal Air Force’. In and in Panama, has been voted the School of Social Sciences on June commenting on the exhibition, the greatest Black Briton. She also set 20. She was accompanied Ms. C. High Commissioner noted that it was up the ‘British Hotel,’ where she fed Dale, Counsellor, and Mrs. V. Siva, an important undertaking that would and cared for wounded soldiers. Community Relations Officer. enable second, third and fourth generation of Jamaicans and other The High Commissioner’s topic was Caribbean nationals, to be proud and ‘Jamaica Out of Many One People’ confident of the history and during which she explored how contributions of their parents and Jamaica’s culture has been influ- grandparents. She also noted that it enced by the island’s history and its was equally important for the wid- different racial and ethnic er British society to remember and recognise the sacrifices made by the It was the High Commissioner’s first British colonies and immigrants from visit to Cardiff and before her pres- the Caribbean, who volunteered for entation at the Conference she met the war effort and contributed COMMUNITY VISITS with the Deputy Presiding Officer for significantly to the rebuilding of the Leicester the Welsh Assembly, David Melding country. High Commissioner, Her Excellency AM. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, paid an official visit to Leicester from Octo- Later in the afternoon, she met with ber 4 to 5, where she met with the Jamaicans living in Cardiff at a com- Lord Mayor of Leicester, Councillor munity meeting at the New Testa- John Thomas, and held discussions ment Church of God in Butetown. with the Chair of the Leicester Asian Business Association, Uday Dhola- The High Commissioner also met kia, to discuss business links with Mrs. Betty Campbell, who took time Jamaica. from celebrating her 61st Wedding The High Commissioner was the Anniversary to attend a Community meeting. Mrs. Campbell was the first The exhibition was curated in black head teacher in Cardiff. partnership with the Black Cultural Archives.

MARY SEACOLE DEDICATION CEREMONY High Commissioner Ndombet-As- samba was among the guests at a site dedication ceremony for the guest speaker at the Leicester long-awaited statue for pioneering Caribbean Credit Union’s 40th Jamaican nurse Mary Seacole, at Anniversary celebrations and pre- the Gardens of St Thomas’ Hospital sented special awards to some of in Westminster, London. the founding members of the credit union, including the Chairman Mr. Chairman of the Mary Seacole Eric Hudson. The High Memorial Statue Appeal, Lord Commissioner congratulated Clive Soley of Hammersmith, said Patricia Munroe and the Contrast PAGE 6 PAGE the statue, which will be the first in Steel band, which is also Hackney Hackney Town Hall and met with High Commissioner, Her Excellency members of the Jamaican com- Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, called the munity, the Member of Parliament, memorial to “overlooked” Africans Diane Abbott and London Assembly and Caribbean servicemen a “fitting Member, Jeannette Arnold. The High permanent tribute” to those who Commission also made a brief visit played a critical role in the war effort. to the Hackney Museum as well as These sentiments were echoed by to the Hackney Caribbean Elderly the Chair of the West Indian Associ- Organisation. ation of Service Personnel (WASP), Mr. Vince McBean, and the Chair Redditch of the Nubian Jak Commemorative More than 100 people enjoyed an Plaque Scheme, Mr. Jak Beula, who evening with the Jamaican High also spoke at the event. Commissioner to mark Black His- The sculpture is engraved with every tory Month in Redditch. H.E. Aloun names of the African and Caribbean Ndombet -Assamba paid a visit to regiments which contributed to Great Redditch on October 24 as part of Britain’s war effort and who made The High Commissioner paid an an event organised by Caribbean the ultimate sacrifice for the ‘mother official visit to Hackney on March 14 Roots Connection. country.’ and met with civic officials and members of the Jamaican and Caribbean Mayor Pat Witherspoon, former PRESENTATION OF community. During the visit, the High Mayor Madge Tillsley, MBE, Borough CREDENTIALS - NORWAY Commissioner visited The Urswick Council Leader Bill Hartnett and the The High Commissioner presented School in Paragon Road . High Commissioner all spoke at the her Credentials to His Majesty the She was joined by The Queen’s event, which included King of Norway on November 6. By representative to Hackney Lt Col performances from the Redditch doing so, she becomes Roderick Morriss; Speaker at the Community Gospel Choir. Jamaica’s Non-Resident Hackney Council, Councillor Mi- Ambassador to Norway. During her chael Desmond and Hackney Cllr HIGH COMMISSIONER visit, the High Commissioner met Patrick Vernon, OBE and was also SUPPORTS MEMORIAL with officers from the Norwegian accompanied by Mrs. Vivienne Siva Brave but largely unsung African Foreign Ministry, the Dean of the and Ms. Leonie Livingston from the and Caribbean soldiers who fought Diplomatic Corps as well as officials Jamaican High Commission. valiantly for Britain in the First and from key business entities in Second World Wars will finally be el- Norway. She also met with the The group attended the morning evated beyond a “footnote in history” individuals behind the Little Jamaica assembly, which was attended by with a permanent memorial unveiled project as well as members of the 450 students aged 11 to 14. During in their honour. The sculpture in Jamaican community in Norway. The the assembly, the High Commission- Windrush Square, Brixton, was High Commissioner was supported er presented Student of the Week revealed to the public on Armistice during the visit by Jamaica’s awards to students in Years 7 and 8. Day (Nov 11) following the obser- Honorary Consul to Norway, Mr. vation of the traditional two-minute The High Commissioner also paid a silence at 11 a.m. Haagen Oust. courtesy call on the speaker at the 7 PAGE Helping them build a better future

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0714-80206_BTS14_English_A4_v2.indd 1 04/08/2014 09:58 OUTREACH ACTIVITIES choreographer, Jackie Guy, MBE, who got the children and their teachers involved in singing and dancing to a range of traditional and contemporary Jamaican music. Members of staff of the High Commission also participated. The students and their teachers

Commonwealth Ex Services League. • The project supported by Chain The Legion operates the Curphey of Hope to increase the number of Home in Newport, Manchester for cardiac surgeries at the Bustamante indigent ex-soldiers. The Legion also Hospital for Children and the Sir John provides monthly and quarterly finan- Golding Rehabilitation Centre were cial assistance to over 100 veterans among the beneficiaries of the and their widows. proceeds from a Jamaican-themed were also treated to a traditional fund raising party, hosted at the Polish Jamaican Christmas lunch, which • Thanks largely to the generous sup- Club in South Kensington. High featured chicken, rice and peas and port of the Jamaican community the Commissioner Ndombet-Assamba fried plantains. All the schools were High Commission was able to donate was the special guest at the June 25 presented with gift bags from the £5,000 to the Commonwealth Coun- event. A cheque for some £6,000 sponsor of day’s activities, Victoria tries League (CCL) Fund from the pro- representing the proceeds was Mutual Building Society (VMBS). The ceeds generated at the annual CCL formally presented to the High Schools Christmas programme is part Fair held at Kensington Town Hall on Commissioner. of the High Commission’s community November 8 in which countries from outreach programme. across the Commonwealth participate • A team from the High Commission annually. The Fund provides sponsor- provided information and advice on ship for the secondary school educa- the range of services offered by the tion of girls throughout the Common- High Commission to the thousands wealth, including Jamaica. In addition of patrons who attended the annual to this donation, the High Commission Jamaica Basic School Foundation was able to contribute £500 to the Jamaica Day Fair and Food Festival CCL Fund in June following a series of at Crystal Palace Park on August 3, fundraising cake sales. and visited the High Commission’s stall. The annual event, which is one • Christmas concert raises funds for of the main fund raising events for the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre Jamaica Basic School Foundation’s THE High Commission was the venue project in Jamaica, is popular with • Ten IR200 Noncontact Forehead for a special Christmas concert to wide cross sections of patrons. Thermometers valued at nearly assist the Sir John Golding J$125,000 were handed over to Min- Rehabilitation Centre in Kingston. ister of Local Government, Hon. Noel The evening was organised by Ms. Arscott, for the Ministry of Health on Dorothy Ottey on behalf of the Friends November 12 at the High Commission of the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation to support Jamaica’s Ebola prepared- Centre to assist with the refurbishing ness campaign. The Thermometers of the existing work shop at the Centre were sourced by the International as well as the Althone Wing of the Healthcare Group UK and funded centre that houses disabled children by the Association of Jamaicans UK from all over the Caribbean. Trust. The UK health group is made of several individuals and organisations that fund raise and support health care in Jamaica.

• Colonel Torrance D. G. Lewis, Chair- • The High Commission rang out with man of the Jamaica Legion received a the sounds of Jamaican folk songs cheque from Senator the Hon. Arnold and ring games as children and J. Nicholson, Minister of Foreign Af- teachers from 12 primary schools fairs & Foreign Trade, from proceeds across London were treated to a collected at the 52nd Independence 9 very special Jamaican Christmas, on Church Service held in London on July December 5. Featured entertainment 26. Established in 1949, the Jamaica was provided by noted Jamaican Legion is an affiliate of the Royal PAGE MEETINGS

GLOBAL SUMMIT TO END SEXUAL Conflict, Zainab Hawa Bangura, and maica’s Minister of National Security, VIOLENCE IN CONFLICT the representatives of several other Hon. Peter Bunting, the High Commis- From June 10 to 13, the High countries in signing the Summit’s sioner and staff of the Jamaican High Commissioner and Counsellor, Ms. C. Statement of Action. In doing so, Commission. Several important topics Dale, attended the Global Summit to Jamaica was able to lend its voice to were covered during the discussions, End Sexual Violence in Conflict here support the end of sexual violence in including economic development, in London. The Summit, which was conflict. energy security, education and skills co-chaired by former UK Foreign for economic development, trade and Secretary, William Hague, and Special EIGHTH UK-CARIBBEAN FORUM investment and security. The outcome Envoy for the UN High The Eighth UK-Caribbean Forum was of the discussions was summarised Commissioner for Refugees, Ms held in London from 16 to 17 June in a Communiqué issued at the end Angelina Jolie, placed a spotlight on 2014 under the theme “A Partner- of the Forum. In keeping with the the use of sexual violence as a ship for Prosperity.” The Forum practice of alternating venues between weapon of war. The High was attended by Foreign Ministers the UK and the Caribbean, the next Commissioner joined the Co-Chairs, and representatives of the UK and Forum is expected to be hosted in the the United Nations Special Caribbean governments, including Caribbean in 2016. Representative of the Secretary Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, General for Sexual Violence in Senator the Hon. A. J. Nicholson, Ja- SPECIAL COMMENDATION/NOMINATIONS

HIGH COMMISSIONER HIGH COMMISSIONER RECEIVES Poetry and Popular Music but was NOMINATED FOR GRASSROOT INTERNATIONAL JURIST AWARD unable to attend the Investiture DIPLOMAT INITIATIVE AWARD On June 23, the High Ceremony in Jamaica. High Commissioner, H. E. Aloun Commissioner received the 2014 Ndombet-Assamba, was shortlisted International Jurists Award for her JAMAICANS IN THE DIASPORA from 70 candidates in May for the 2nd contribution in the field of Alternative Second and third generation Grassroot Diplomat Initiative Award. Dispute Resolution (ADR) from the Jamaicans in the UK continue to The award recognises UK-based International Council of Jurists.The make their mark in their chosen politicians and diplomats who are award was presented to the High professions. One such is Jason representing the interests of the public Commissioner at the Council’s Pitter, a barrister with one of the and their citizenry at the highest level. International Conference that was North’s leading legal outfits, New The High Commissioner was held in London. Park Court Chambers in Leeds, nominated for her vast voluntary work and son of Jamaican parents, who in empowering the youth of Jamaica. NATIONAL HONOUR PRESENTED continued the trend in April when TO LINTON KWESI JOHNSON he ‘took silk’ and the much revered Minister of Transport, Works and title of Queen’s Counsel (QC) at a Housing, Dr. the Honourable Omar special ceremony in Westminster Davies, presented the Order of recently. Distinction to Jamaican-born poet Linton Kwesi Johnson at a Following a rigorous and ceremony at the High demanding selection process Jason, Commission on 25 October. who is highly recommended by the legal directories in fields including serious crime, is now one of only 100 members of the UK’s legal profession to join the ranks of QC this year. The Leeds born 42 year old whose father hails from Kingston and late mother from St Elizabeth, joined his peers to accept the title from the Lord Chancellor who commented that they represent “the finest of the UK’s justice system”.

Linton Kwesi Johnson was born in Chapleton, Clarendon, and was conferred with the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander (CD) on 6th August for his distinguished contribution to PAGE 10 PAGE COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Jamaica took home 10 gold, 4 Chamber of Commerce as well as Games in 2018, but the support of silver and 8 bronze medals from the Jamaica House, which was host- Jamaicans is needed. The overall Commonwealth Games in Glas- ed by the Jamaica Tourist Board plan is to raise money to send lawn gow, Scotland, in July, making it an and Barrhead Travel. There was a bowls equipment to Jamaica and impressive haul of 22 medals. special initiative put on by Mr. David put the sport in schools, colleges As usual, track and field athletes Pott to recognise the links between and universities. For more informa- took the bulk of the medals on offer, Scotland and Jamaica entitled, ‘Flag tion please contact Andrew Newell but Alia Atkinson chipped in with Up Scotland Jamaica’ at which the on [email protected] 1 silver and 1 bronze in swimming Hon. Dr. W. McNeill, Minister of breaststroke events, and Jamaica Tourism and Entertainment as well FENCING beat England to secure the bronze as Mr. Paul Pennicook, Director of Jamaica’s Tia Simms-Lymn reached medal in netball. Tourism, were also in attendance the final of the women’s epee at the along with the High Commissioner Commonwealth Fencing Kemar Bailey-Cole took the gold and other officials. Championships, held in Inverclyde, medal in the men’s 100m in 10 Scotland. Tia had victories over seconds flat, with another Jamaican OTHER SPORTING EVENTS opponents from Singapore and in third, Nickel Ashmeade (10.12). South Africa, before losing to There was a Jamaica 1-2-3 in the LAWN BOWLS Scotland’s Georgina Usher 11-4 in women’s 400m, as Steph McPher- Jamaica took part in a lawn bowls the final. Usher had also beaten son won in 50.67. Jamaica also event which was played at “The Car- another Jamaican, Caitlin Chang, by took 1-2-3 in the men’s 200m, won nival On The Green”, at Kelvingrove a narrow margin 15-13 in the by Rasheed Dwyer in 20.14. Jamai- Green in Glasgow in June. quarter-finals. can Kaliese Spencer (54.10) won the women’s 400m hurdles, while in This first ever lawn bowls Jamaican In the final rankings, of the 53 the men’s shot put, Odayne Rich- team comprised four players, two of fencers who took part, Tia ranked ards won with a throw of 21.61. whom are not regular bowls play- second, and Caitlin eighth. Andrew Riley of Jamaica won the ers. They included Leon Mann, a 110m hurdles in a time of 13.32, BBC sports commentator and also In the team event, Jamaica ended and another Jamaican, Kimberley a Voice newspaper journalist, along up fifth, behind Singapore, South Williams, won the women’s triple with Junior Witter, a former WBC Africa, England and Australia, but jump with a leap of 14.21. The world, Commonwealth, European ahead of more-favoured teams such Jamaican women won the mile and British boxing champion. The as Scotland, New Zealand, India, relay in 3:23.83, and they also won other players were 2013 British Canada and Wales. both sprint relays. The women were crown green bowls association anchored to victory by Shelly-Ann president Mervyn Edwards, the only Fraser-Pryce in 41.83, while the ever ethnic member of the govern- men triumphed with Usain Bolt at ing board, and Andrew Newell, the the helm in 37.58. creator of the KNCC Carnival.

MEETINGS HELD IN THE The overall winners were the British MARGINS OF THE GAMES Crown Green team, beating the The High Commissioner and Deputy Scotland president team 8-5 in High Commissioner, Mrs. Diedre a tight final. The Jamaican team Mills, participated in meetings finished third, but had the pleasure organised in the margins of the of making history as being the first Games to highlight and promote ever Jamaican lawn bowls team. Jamaica. These include the Jamai- ca Trade and Invest Seminar held Andrew is hoping that Jamaica will in conjunction with the Glasgow compete in the Commonwealth

CONDOLENCES

It was with deep regret that the Ja- sioner on her official tour to Urswick orist and Sociologist ; the Revered maican High Commission received School, where she was a student. Amy Rose Powell, the Mother of news of the untimely passing of Bishop Delroy Powell ; Mrs. Carmen Ms. Christine Case in January. The Books of Condolence were also Wray and Mrs. Delores Watson High Commission extended sincere opened in July and August respec- both of Manchester; Mr. William condolence to the family and friends tively, to mark the passing of the George Chung of Nottingham; well of Ms. Case. former Governor-General, Sir How- known football coach Mr. Trevor ard Cooke, ON, GCMG, GCVO, CD Hutton, community activists Mr. The High Commissioner also said and former Minister of Agriculture Seymour McLean and Mrs. Mavis she was shocked and saddened and Fisheries, Hon. Roger Clarke, Campbell, the wife of the Chairman to learn of the untimely and tragic CD, MP. of the Association of Jamaican’s UK death of Shereka Marsh, whom she Trust. had the pleasure of meeting on her The Jamaican Community also 11 visit to Hackney in March. Shereka said farewell to several outstanding was one of two female students who members including Professor Stew- accompanied the High Commis- art Hall the renowned Cultural The- PAGE Merlene Ottey OD Jamaican Sprint Queen visited the Jamaican High Commission London on 25 February 2014 where she men with staff and clients in the Consular department.

Mrs Diedre Mills, Deputy High Commissioner (right) with Community Relations Officer Vivienne Siva and Mrs Ann Marie Turner offering customers in the Consular Department tradition Jamaican Bun and Cheese and soft drinks during the Jamaican High Commission’s Easter Customer Appreciation Day on Thursday 16 April Clients enjoying the Jamaica Day Quiz

Deputy High Commissioner Mrs. Diedre Mills with the Mayor of Gloucester and President of the St. Ann Society Gloucester, Mrs. Carol Francis-McGann. The Deputy High Commissioner was the guest speaker at the St’ Ann Society’s Annual General Meeting

Jamaican High Commissioner, Her Excellency Aloun Ndombet-Assamba (right) with the Deputy High Commissioner Mrs. Diedre Mills (centre) and Ms PAGE 12 PAGE Christine Dale (left) enjoying the Jamaican Knowledge Quiz that was one of the activities hosted by the High Commission to celebrate Jamaica Day Her Excellency, with Mr & Mrs Bolt, Norman who paid a visit to the High Commission in August Deputy High Commissioner with Veron at Jamaica Day

Rudolph Austin - Captain of Jamaica’s National Reggae Boyz team & English Champi- onship club Leeds United midfielder visited Her Excellency Aloun Ndombet Assamba in The Monty Band at fund raising Christmas Concert for Sir John Golding Centre February . He was accompanied by his wife Caroline and newborn baby son Romario

In July Leeds based diver, Yona Knight, who represented Jamaica (his father’s home- Community Stalwart, Founder of Windrush Foundation , First Black Mayor of Soutwark & land), at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, paid a courtesy call on Jamaican World War 2 Veteran signing Book of Condolence for the former Governor-General, the late High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Her Excellency Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, Sir Howard Cooke, ON, GCMG, GCVO, CD, who died on 11th July 2014 in Kingston. this week to update her on his preparation the games. He was accompanied by entrepreneur Levi Roots who is Yona’s sponsor. 13 PAGE Tessy Ojo - Chief Executive Officer, Diana Award UK paid a courtesy call on Her Excellency Aloun Ndombet Assamba on 25 March 2014 to hand over The International Diana Award for Outstanding, Sustained & Selfless Contribution to Community. The award was presented to a young Jamaican in Kingston by the Minister of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade, Senator The Honourable Arnold Nicholson, Q.C

High Commissioner H.E Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, Deputy High Commissioner , Mrs. Diedre Mills , with Tessy Ojo - Cheif Executive Officer, Diana Award & Nathaniel Peat - Jamaican Inspired

Jamaica’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom , Her Excellency Aloun Ndombet-Assamba yesterday toured the Paradise Patties plant in Tottenham, in North East London as part of the activities to celebrate the company’s 10th anniversary. The High Commissioner was hosted by Wolverhampton Sickle Cell Care hosted a Patronage Ceremony in Directors Herman Oliver and Delsie Johnson. September for High Commissioner, H.E. Aloun Ndombet-Assamba

PAGE 14 PAGE BRITJAM Brand Director Khori Hyde & guests High Commissioner with Caribbean Steel Band

John Downie, Managing Director, UK Unsigned presents plaque of appreciation High Commissioner presents award to High Commissioner & Deputy High Commissioner to to chair of the Leicester Caribbean Credit Union say thank you for supporting Reggae Month in February 15

High Commissioner with the Jamaican Flag bearer Onayomi Patten at the annual Commonwealth day flag raising ceremony in March at Westminster Abbey PAGE Helping them build a better future

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