BREAKING BARRIERS Part 4, CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S MONTH THROUGH THE JOURNEY OF 'CORPORATE IMAGE'.

In the realm of storytelling, there's a profound truth echoed by a wise friend: "Don't wait on anyone to tell your stories, tell them yourself." Embracing this philosophy, I find myself compelled to share the remarkable journey of Corporate Image Communications and Productions, particularly as we celebrate International Women's Month. While the intricate details are being meticulously curated for a forthcoming book, the urgency to share this narrative now is undeniable. After all, tomorrow is promised to no one.

The genesis of Corporate Image dates back to 1990, a time marked by the dissolution of Innercity Promotions, a company brimming with potential and passion. The breakup was bitter, leaving behind remnants of what once was a thriving entity. Innercity had left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, its legacy woven with innovative ideas and the sheer will to see them through. In this dynamic duo, Tomlinson envisioned grand ideas while Grant executed them with precision. Grant's prowess lay in disseminating information - the vital area of communications - a skill honed through her background in news and broadcasting, a time when social media and instant communication were but distant dreams.

Amidst the debris of Innercity's demise, Grant found herself with scant resources -two desks and a typewriter, were all that was handed down to her. . Everything else had departed with Tomlinson, leaving her to rebuild from scratch. Yet, armed with resilience and the loyalty of a select few clients - Tastee, Small Businesses Association, Sunshine Ministries, L'Acadco, and others - Grant embarked on a journey of reinvention.

Initially operating from the confines of her home, Grant soon established an office on Shortwood Road, a modest space that served as the birthplace of countless groundbreaking endeavours. Yet, the landscape she charted was fraught with challenges, particularly for a woman daring to lead in a predominantly male-dominated arena. It was in this crucible of adversity that an employee, Cynthia Grannel emerged as an unsung hero. Her unwavering professionalism in fielding calls led many to believe they were engaging with a corporate giant in New Kingston - a testament to her indispensable role in Corporate Image's ascent.

Undeterred by the naysayers and emboldened by a vision that transcended convention, Corporate Image embarked on a path defined by audacity. Unafraid to venture where others hesitated, Grant and her team undertook projects deemed unfeasible by conventional standards. These ventures demanded not just financial backing but a willingness to embrace the unknown, to pioneer uncharted territories.

In the annals of Corporate Image's history lie stories of resilience, innovation, and unwavering determination. Each project undertaken served as a clarion call to challenge the status quo, to push boundaries, and defy limitations. As we embark on this journey down memory lane, I invite you to follow this blog—an homage to the groundbreaking projects and the relentless spirit that defined Corporate Image. In celebrating our past, we pave the way for a future where barriers are but stepping stones to greatness.

Writer, Lois Grant

Lois Grant is a distinguished communications professional with a proven track record of groundbreaking achievements. She co-founded Innercity Promotions, renowned for pioneering live dancehall concerts, and later established her own company, Corporate Image Communications and Productions. With experience spanning from the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation to Grimax Advertising, Grant has left an indelible mark on the Caribbean political landscape. Serving as Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica from 2007 to 2013, she continues to contribute as a consultant for prestigious entities like the US Network - NBC Sports, while also making waves as a travel influencer.