A night to rub elbows, drink a glass of wine, and experience all that Jamaica has to offer; Jamaica 60th Launch Re-igniting a Nation for Greatness

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“I say this is the land of my birth, I say this is the land of my birth

I say this is Jamaica, my Jamaica, the land of my birth.”

From start to finish, Jamaica Tourist Board once again showed up and showed out with their Jamaica 60^th Launch, Re-igniting a Nation for Greatness.

The successful gala held on Saturday, March 26^th, 2022 boasted beautiful décor, a stunning location, delicious food – which I will get to in a minute – and most importantly, a celebration worthy of the effort that truly inspired passion in the guests attending. It has been a long two years, but Toronto is known for throwing some incredible galas. This one in particular will stand out from all other galas this year. The sky was the limit when it came to creativity because the event’s unique theme and décor took centre stage

Photo Credit: George Pimentel

As I walked in, the energy was high, people were laughing and it was nice to see everyone mingling and having a good time. As I looked to my left, I saw a magnificent buffet table that I immediately made a beeline for. Two well-known Jamaican Chefs: Chef Noel Cunningham, and Chef Selwyn, monitored their gourmet hors d’oeuvres ensuring that everything remained topped up and available for the hundreds of guests in attendance.

Never disappointing, the appetizers served as an adventurous tasting event that allowed guests to try an assortment of Jamaican delicacies. As the guests socialized, we were treated to miniaturized versions of our favourite meals, and we were able to personalize our plates. The chef attended stations provided a fun, visual component, and the ability to sample a little bit of everything; fantastic!

It would not be the night that it was without local talents and celebrities showing up to lend their support. Brandon Gonez, MPP Mitzi Hunter, and surprise guest, the great Ben Johnson all turned up to celebrate with the Jamaica community.

The night began with a heartfelt performance by the Heritage Singers, which was followed by a welcome from the moderator for the night Danae Peart. The crowd listened to spirited greetings from: Ms Adaoma Patterson, President of the Jamaica Canadian Association, Councillor Michael Thompson, Deputy Mayor, City of Toronto, and the Honourable Dr. Rosemarie Moodie, OD, Senator of Canada.

Photo Credit: George Pimentel

Her Excellency Sharon J Miller, High Commissioner for Jamaica to Canada, and Ms Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board, Canada, reminded us that although the island is a mere speck on the global map, culturally, the people are a force to be reckoned with.

We all had a chance to shake our foot a little bit, with the saxophonist stylings of Dave McLaughlin, and then we heard stirring addresses from: the Honourable Edmund Bartlett, CD, MP, Minister of Tourism, the Honourable Olivia Grange, CD, MP, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, and Her Excellency Sharon J Miller, High Commissioner for Jamaica to Canada.

There is something novel about Jamaica, something undeniably exquisite that attracts visitors, and countrymen and women alike. The energy is unmatched, and there is an unrivalled charm that is only matched by the island’s beauty. As each person spoke, you were transported to the island, and if it were not so cold outside, I would have felt like I was actually there.

It was a night to rub elbows, drink a glass of wine, and experience all that Jamaica has to offer.

Happy 60^th anniversary Jamaica!