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Years ago, as the Communications Director in the office of the Prime Minister (Jamaica), I shared stories of my groundbreaking endeavours in the communications and creative industries with two writers. Despite my achievements, one demanded endorsements from established persons whose names were known, while the other seemed envious, having never ventured beyond her comfort zone at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation where we both started out, as news editors. She saw me as a 'hustler' as I was always creating something new.
Now, in retirement, I've taken a friend's advice to heart: TELL YOUR OWN STORIES. And so I have embarked on writing about my trailblazing productions, challenging norms in what was once a male-dominated domain. I encourage my young friends to create their own stories so that when they get to my age, they will be able to look back and say.."I did things my way'.
One of my overlooked triumphs was joining the West St Andrew Kiwanis Club in 1989, back when it was strictly a man's domain. Initially volunteering my public relations services, I caught the attention of the club's leadership, who recognised the value I could bring to the club. Despite resistance and even threats of resignation from some members, President Maurice Henry stood firm, recognising the changing times. Eventually, I was welcomed into the club, rising to the position of Distinguished Secretary.
Recently, a present member, Dwight Moore surprised me with a video call during a meeting, acknowledging my role in breaking gender barriers and paving the way for other women to join the Club...
Through the Kiwanis movement, I learned the true essence of serving the less fortunate, a lesson I continued to apply when I later joined a non-profit organization, Boys Town in Trench Town.
But it all started with the West St Andrew Kiwanis Club, and for that, I am immensely grateful.
Writer - Lois Grant
Lois Grant - JP, MA, BA (Hons), Dip Mass Comm, Cert. Broadcast Journalism BBC-London, is a distinguished communications professional with a legacy of groundbreaking achievements. From her early days at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) to leading the Public Relations unit at Grimax Advertising. She co-founded Innercity Promotions, celebrated for pioneering live dance hall concerts. In the '90s, Grant established her agency, Corporate Image Communications and Productions, creating innovative events for brands like Tastee Limited, COK Credit Union, and the Jamaica National Building Society. Her impact extends to shaping the political landscape of three Caribbean islands, Jamaica included. She was a former Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica (2007-2013). Grant continues to contribute as a consultant working for prestigious entities such as the US Network, NBC Sports and more recently as a travel influencer.
Editors Note:
Friday, March 8, is International Women's Day. Let us salute our ladies, especially those who have broken barriers.
I invite other Jamaicans to tell their stories because I am aware of other stories. There are persons in the public and private sectors kept down by evil people. Others worked with good superiors and were allowed to improve themselves and serve others. I am also a talented Jamaican who knows what it is to be victimized because of what I stand for. It is time we stand up even in retirement and tell our stories so that those who are evil to their brothers and sisters will know that one day their evil deeds will be brought to light. We must tell our stories of our achievements so that even our children and our relatives can feel proud.
If you have a story to tell, contact me at 876 816-5261.
Violet Edwards Scholarship
If you are having financial challenges and you are unable to pursue tertiary education; you want to enter the UWI, but you cannot afford it; you had to drop out of school due to family commitments; you feel that you are too old to go back to UWI, then CLICK HERE and submit your information so that we can tell you more about the Violet Edwards scholarship.
FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 1200 - 1300 HOURS
9A CHELSEA AVENUE, NEW KINGSTON, JAMAICA.
THE DEADLINE FOR ENTERING IS
MONDAY, APRIL 1, 2024.
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