Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Audrey Marks, recently received a notable honor from the Jamaican Organization of New Jersey (JON-J). The organization recognized Ambassador Marks with its Distinguished Award of Excellence for Leadership and Diplomacy. This commendation celebrates her remarkable contributions to Jamaica’s national and global development.
The award was presented at a gala that coincided with JON-J’s 25th anniversary and Jamaica’s 61st Independence Day.
Held at the Newark Airport Marriott Hotel in New Jersey, the event took place on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
Championing community welfare: The Ambassador’s praise for JON-J
Upon accepting the award, Ambassador Marks praised JON-J for its substantial impact on community development.
She highlighted the organization’s programs aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for youth and its social assistance initiatives. These include offering scholarships, providing essential supplies, and delivering financial support to families in various circumstances.
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Unity and heritage: The impact of JON-J
Ambassador Marks emphasized JON-J’s crucial role in promoting Jamaican culture and fostering community cohesion since its founding in 1998.
She stated that JON-J has become a cornerstone for the Jamaican community in New Jersey and the surrounding areas.
Furthermore, she drew attention to the organization’s theme for its 25th-anniversary celebrations, ‘The Strength of a People, The Power of Community,’ applauding it as a reflection of JON-J’s core values.
A call to action: Introducing the UPLIFT program
Taking the opportunity to expand on her vision, Ambassador Marks revisited her proposal for a youth travel and mentorship initiative- Upliftment, Learning, and Intervention through Foreign Travel (UPLIFT).
This program aims to offer new life experiences to young Jamaican boys aged 7 to 18 by arranging host family stays in the United States.
Designed to intervene in societal challenges affecting young boys, the program seeks to provide transformative experiences in a different environment.
The Ambassador urged JON-J to actively participate in the UPLIFT program’s pilot launch in New Jersey.
She suggested that a committee be formed to oversee the selection and monitoring of suitable host families, ensuring a safe and nurturing setting for the program participants.
A night to remember: Additional honorees celebrated
The event was not solely focused on Ambassador Marks; other distinguished individuals were also recognized.
Among them were the U.S. Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, who received JON-J’s Public Service Award, and community advocate Irwine Clare, who was honored with the Community Service Award.
Jamaican actor and comedian Oliver Samuels, was given the award for Arts and Culture; Dr. Robert Clarke was awarded for Healthcare; Cecil Wright for Business; Jamaican balladeer Richie Stephens for Music and Culture; and Debra Simms for Law/Criminal Justice.
This gala event underscored the enduring ties between Jamaica and its diaspora, celebrating individuals who have made a significant impact on both communities. It also served as a platform for ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing the welfare of Jamaicans at home and abroad.
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