Five distinguished Jamaicans residing overseas have received the 2024 Governor-General Achievement Awards (GGAA), marking their exceptional contributions to their homeland and the global community.
Among the honorees are Steve Getten and Mark Henry from Canada; Dr. Pearl Ann Jarrett from the United Kingdom; Dr. Dahlia Ann Blake from the United States; and renowned musician Roy ‘Gramps’ Morgan, celebrated for his work with Morgan Heritage.
Ceremonial honors amidst cultural gathering
The awards presentation was a highlight of the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, which concluded on June 19 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James.
His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General of Jamaica, presided over the ceremony, accompanied by Jamaica’s Ambassador to the US, Her Excellency Audrey Marks.
This event not only celebrated individual achievements but also strengthened ties within the Jamaican Diaspora.
A commitment to community and country
The GGAA is awarded every two years to individuals who have actively contributed to their communities and to Jamaica’s development.
The awardees, divided into two age categories—18 to 35 and over 35—exemplify dedication and service that enhance Jamaica’s reputation worldwide.
A call to continuous service
In his remarks, the Governor-General expressed gratitude to the awardees for their role as ambassadors and for their relentless service, which he described as pivotal to enhancing Jamaica’s global stature.
He urged the recipients to continue their commendable efforts in alignment with the values of the Jamaican National Pledge—promoting justice, brotherhood, and peace.
Uniting for transformation
The 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, themed ‘United for Jamaica’s Transformation: Fostering Peace, Productivity, and Youth Empowerment’, served as a critical platform for dialogues on national development.
The conference brought together diaspora members, stakeholders, and leaders to discuss collaborative strategies for addressing key challenges and seizing opportunities for Jamaica’s advancement.
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