Veteran Broadcaster Alma Mock Yen Celebrates 95

Alma Mock Yen

In the beating heart of Kingston, Jamaica, the echoes of cultural innovation resonate from the hallowed grounds of 86 Maxfield Avenue. A bastion of creativity, this historic family home belonging to the Andrade/Patel family sat on one and a half acres of exceptionally fertile and arable land. Its allure for the youth in neighbouring communities lies in the thriving mango orchard comprising 16 trees, alongside a variety of every imaginable well-known Jamaican fruit tree. Situated in mid-town Kingston, this residence drew young Jamaicans from the surrounding areas and eventually became the cradle for visionaries who would imprint an indelible mark on Jamaica's cultural canvas 

One such luminary is Alma Mock Yen, a beacon of creativity and wisdom. As she celebrated her 95th birthday on November 15, a select group of former colleagues from the JBC and various media connections gathered to honour this living legend. Alma, a veteran communicator and multifaceted artist, graciously shared her memories and experiences with us, taking us back to where it all began., We were sitting at her knees and absorbing the stories..

In the company of fellow luminary Tony Patel, a stalwart in broadcasting, the afternoon unfolded into a captivating journey through time. The stories that echoed through the air were not mere tales; they were the firsthand accounts of those who sculpted the very history we hold dear today. Alma and Tony transported us back to an era when they were pioneers, laying the foundation for what would become Jamaica's cultural legacy.

The need to preserve these living treasures is evident. This is a heartfelt plea to recognize and record these cultural icons. Babsy Grange, the steward of Jamaica's cultural heritage, (Minister of Culture) we urge you to capture their stories through audio and video recordings. These stories must be shared with a generation that primarily absorbs information through non-traditional means. In plain and simple terms, they do not READ.

But let's return to Alma Mock Yen's narrative, the roots of her remarkable journey extend back to 86 Maxfield Avenue. In this vibrant community, she played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary dance, leaving an indelible mark on Jamaica's cultural identity. Her dance company, born from the essence of Maxfield Avenue, would go on to tour the Caribbean and the USA, with her carrying alongside her, her young son, her’ hand-bag;’ who got first-hand classes in the geography of the region.

Amidst the recollections we gathered stories of another  Jamaican,   Ivy Baxter who emerged as another luminary in the dance realm, laying the groundwork for the renowned National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC). Ivy Baxter's influence provided a platform for talented Jamaicans of darker hues and setting the stage for future luminaries like Rex Nettleford and Eddy Thomas.

As the stories unfolded, the tapestry of 86 Maxfield Avenue revealed its rich threads. Actor Buddy Pouyatt, comedian and broadcaster Charles Hyatt, and the talented Shirley Campbel and Joyce Campbell, who later became one of NDTC's shining stars, all blossomed from this cultural epicentre where young people would meet and interact and ‘raid’ the fruit trees on the property mush with the approval and generosity of its owners...

Surprises continued to unfold, with the revelation that the esteemed actress Madge Sinclair, known for her roles in iconic productions like "Roots" and "The Lion King," Cornbread, Earl and Me, Convoy, Coming to America, Trapper John, M.D.,    was born at 86 Maxfield Avenue. Her legacy, like many others from this sacred ground, echoes far beyond Jamaica's shores.

In a world where reading habits wane, these recollections offer a snapshot of a bygone era. Alma Mock Yen, we extend our heartfelt wishes for continued good health, prosperity, and happiness. As you step into your 96th year and beyond, may the echoes of 86 Maxfield Avenue continue to resonate, reminding us of the cultural tapestry that shapes our beloved Jamaica.

At 95, you Alma Mock Yen,  stand as a testament to the adage from "The Sound of Music": "Somewhere in your  youth or childhood, you must have done something good." 

May your sharp memory, active vision, and enduring spirit continue to paint a picture of a life well-lived—a melody of wisdom that continues to play on.

Editor:

The contributor, Lois Grant has dedicated her entire career to the field of communication. She began at Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation as a news editor and later co-founded Innercity Promotions. In 1990, she launched her own production and communication company, Corporate Image Productions. Her notable achievement includes spearheading the Caribbean's acclaimed Tastee Talent contest. Grant's role as Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister further solidified her impact. as a communicator. Her commitment to education is evident through scholarships initiated under Corporate Image, benefiting Jamaica's top-performing artists, media professionals, educators, and esteemed individuals across various fields. She is the production representative for the prominent US network, NBC Sports. 

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More Readings About Alma

• 10 things you didn't know about Alma Mock-Yen
• News | Jamaica Gleaner

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