Members of Canada’s Philanthropic Community unite for the Jamrock Caribbean Nights Gala

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“All right! Edit’s done, I have to get out of here, I am so late!” I looked at the time and checked the eta on Google Maps. “35 minutes, okay not bad.” I slipped on a simple champagne silk dress, with some heels; “Good to go.”

I was on my way to the Palais Royale Ballroom for the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF) 17th edition of the ‘Jamrock’ – Caribbean Nights-themed Gala. This year the event was held on Friday October 20^th, and from what I heard, this was the gala to be at.

As I stepped into the Palais, I was first caught up by the beauty of the venue; crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, warm glow over the attendees. Some notable individuals that were said to be in attendance include:

Honourable Daryl Vaz (MP, Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport)

Kurt Davis (Consulate General of Jamaica)

Jay Martin (Event Emcee, Comedian, Morning show radio host, former JUNO award winner)

Bruce Croxon (Former CBC’s Dragons’ Den, partner at Round13 Capital, HHJF Board Member)

Karl Hale (HHJF Founder, Chairman and National Bank Open TournamentO

Mark Josephs (President of Kisko Products and HHJF Board

Natasha Borota (President, The It Factor Ltd. Event Organizer)

The tables were meticulously arranged with pristine white linens, polished silverware, and sparkling crystal glasses, and the air was filled with the enchanting aroma of culinary delightfulness, mingled with the subtle scent of expensive perfumes and colognes. Lover’s Rock was playing in the background, setting a mood of old school Jamaican sophistication and refinement.

Waitstaff circulated the room, offering trays of delectable desserts prepared by renowned chefs. The ambiance: an air of sophistication and camaraderie, and guests mingled and engaged in stimulating conversations.

Hosted by “Canada’s Renaissance Man” Jay Martin, the event brought Canada’s philanthropic community together to support the foundation’s annual school build and school meal program, benefiting Jamaica’s most vulnerable children and youth.

Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation was established in June of 2005, where Karl Hale brought forward a concept of supporting his native Jamaica. Since inception, Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation has assisted in improving the lives of the next generation of Jamaicans and their communities by creating a world-class education system through, investment in infrastructure, resource materials and expertise. The Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation has raised over two million dollars and built 26 schools thanks to their generous sponsors and donors.

Always outdoing themselves, this year, the foundation introduced its Great Jamaica Auction, which features a diverse array of auction items that range from restaurant vouchers and in-demand event tickets to world-class villas in the Caribbean and everything in between. Over 100 items were available for bidding online and it culminated on the night of the Gala.

The foundation has recently achieved a significant milestone by completing its 26^th school build project in Jamaica. In July, over 20 Canadian volunteers teamed up with HHJF’ s local implementing partner, to construct The Orange Bay Infant School in Portland, Jamaica.

The foundation’s schools have become beacons of hope, offering children a safe and welcoming environment to learn and develop to their full potential. By: alleviating overcrowding, improving sanitation, and enhancing security, these schools meet each community’s unique needs. Thanks to the generosity of HHJF’ s supporters and donors, these schools create positivity that extends far beyond the classroom, inspiring and empowering generations to come.

As the gala drew to a close, guests left with a sense of fulfillment and a treasure trove of memories. The Jamrock Caribbean Nights Gala is not just an event; it was a magical experience that l know has left a lasting imprint on the hearts and minds of all who attend, reminding them of the beauty of life’s grand celebrations.