Over 50 scholarship recipients from the J Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation recently participated in a transformative workshop aimed at equipping them with essential skills for their academic and professional journeys. The event focused on effective communication, wardrobe essentials, and business etiquette, preparing students for the transition from high school to university and from university to the workplace. The one-day session also emphasized self-care and personal development, ensuring participants are well-rounded individuals ready to face life’s challenges. Corporate and image consultant Althea Laing, a trailblazer in the fashion industry and Jamaica’s first supermodel, delivered an inspiring presentation on the importance of first impressions, professionalism, and self-confidence. Laing, who defied stereotypes in her career, encouraged the students to celebrate their uniqueness and build meaningful networks. The workshop also included professional headshots by LH Multimedia, enhancing the recipients’ online professional presence. JWN Foundation General Manager Garfene Grandison highlighted the initiative’s goal to leave a lasting impact on students, particularly those from underserved and rural communities. The day concluded with an awards ceremony, marking the first time the foundation hosted a workshop of this nature. Makeup artist Shanique Ellington and her team provided glam makeovers, while Ellington emphasized the value of versatility in business and entrepreneurship. Participants, including Ruth-Ann Alexander and Tisayra Jones, expressed gratitude for the invaluable lessons and experiences gained. The event underscored JWN Foundation’s commitment to empowering young individuals to excel in their personal and professional lives.
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‘Deliver real change’
In a powerful address at the 80th United Nations (UN) General Assembly debate, Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness condemned the failure of developed nations to fulfill their climate finance commitments and criticized the global financial system for marginalizing vulnerable states. Holness emphasized the urgent need for reforms to make the UN more inclusive and responsive to the needs of smaller nations, particularly those grappling with the escalating impacts of climate change.
Holness highlighted Jamaica’s significant strides in fiscal discipline, reducing its debt-to-GDP ratio from 144% to 62%, yet underscored the persistent challenges in accessing affordable financing. Despite limited resources, Jamaica has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and is on track to meet its renewable energy target of 50% by 2030. However, the Prime Minister lamented that these efforts are hampered by a flawed global financing system that imposes high borrowing costs on reforming economies while ignoring their vulnerabilities.
He called out wealthy nations for repeatedly failing to deliver on their $100 billion annual climate finance pledge, describing the $800 million initial capitalisation of the COP28 loss and damage fund as grossly inadequate. Holness advocated for a new approach to measuring countries’ needs through the multidimensional vulnerability index, which would ensure fairer access to affordable loans. He also endorsed innovative financing mechanisms, such as debt-for-climate swaps and mixed funding, to attract private investment and alleviate debt burdens.
Beyond climate finance, Holness addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel while expressing deep concern over Israel’s counteroffensive. He called for a diplomatic resolution, urging adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 242 and a ceasefire agreement that includes the release of hostages.
Turning to Haiti, Holness, who chairs the Caribbean Community (Caricom), urged UN member states to act on the Secretary-General’s recommendations by establishing a stronger hybrid mechanism to address the crisis. He stressed that security operations alone are insufficient and called for rebuilding democratic institutions, ensuring free elections, and expanding humanitarian relief once stability is restored.
Holness also highlighted the global threat posed by transnational criminal gangs, describing them as global syndicates with resources rivaling nation-states. He called for a coordinated international campaign to combat organized crime, urging full implementation of the UN’s program on small arms and light weapons.
Concluding his speech, Holness challenged the global community to address pressing issues such as climate change, debt, poverty, conflicts, and crime through collective action. “Jamaica stands ready to work with all member states in partnership and solidarity to create a future defined by peace, prosperity, and dignity for all,” he declared.
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Bellefield High sets sights on ending shift system
MANDEVILLE, Manchester — Bellefield High School is making significant strides toward eliminating its shift system, a long-standing challenge for the institution. The recent inauguration of an eight-classroom block, constructed at a cost of $75 million through independent funding, marks a pivotal step in this journey. Principal Paul Grant emphasized the need for an additional 16 classrooms to fully transition to a whole-day operation mode for its 1,400 students.
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Apology to Fesco and CEO Mr Jeremy Barnes
The Jamaica Observer has issued a formal apology for incorrectly attributing a statement about Fesco’s market position to Mr. Jeremy Barnes, the company’s CEO, in a recent BusinessWeek article titled ‘Fesco Fuel Sales Surge 7.4%’. The publication acknowledged that Mr. Barnes did not make the quoted remark and expressed regret for the error and any resulting confusion among its readers. As part of its corrective measures, the Observer has removed the misattributed quote from all its published materials. This incident highlights the importance of accurate reporting and the potential consequences of misinformation in business journalism. The Observer has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding journalistic integrity and ensuring the reliability of its content moving forward.
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West Indies cricket back in the spotlight
The West Indies cricket team embarks on a packed schedule in the final quarter of 2025, spanning all formats of the game. Ranked sixth in Twenty20 (T20) cricket, the Caribbean side, led by new captain Akeal Hosein, combines seasoned players with promising young talent. Their first challenge is a three-match T20 series against 18th-ranked Nepal, a team that cannot be underestimated given the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and the West Indies’ historical vulnerabilities across formats.
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Goodbye CRH
MONTEGO BAY, St James — After decades of dedicated service at Cornwall Regional Hospital (CRH), Richard Lawrence and Sharon McLean are stepping into retirement, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and resilience. The duo, along with 31 other retirees from various regions, were honored at a luncheon hosted by the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) on Thursday. Lawrence, who served as a senior security supervisor for 42 years, expressed his bittersweet feelings about retiring before the hospital’s ongoing rehabilitation project is completed. ‘It was my dream to see the hospital open while I was working,’ he shared. ‘But I know when the time comes, they might invite me to see the progress.’ Lawrence, who spent over 25 years as a senior supervisor, reflected on his career with pride, emphasizing how his work enabled him to support his family and nurture his children’s successful careers. ‘All this came through the work at Cornwall Regional Hospital,’ he said. ‘I don’t have any regrets.’ His colleague, Sharon McLean, a chief medical technologist with 40 years of service, also shared her mixed emotions. McLean, who endured health challenges due to the hospital’s mold-infested environment, expressed relief that future staff will not face the same hardships. ‘I was there suffering for a long time,’ she recalled. ‘But I am happy that people will not experience what we had experienced.’ McLean, whose motto is ‘By our skills, we save lives,’ takes pride in her contributions to saving lives through her laboratory work. Both retirees are now looking forward to new chapters in their lives, with Lawrence expressing gratitude for his family’s support and McLean planning to channel her energy into new endeavors. The luncheon concluded with the presentation of plaques and heartfelt appreciation from WRHA Manager Simone Douglas-Cluney, who praised the retirees for their unwavering dedication and service.
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No contest
The People’s National Party (PNP) of Jamaica has unveiled its leadership lineup for the upcoming political cycle, with Natalie Neita Garvey, Member of Parliament for St Catherine North Central, emerging as the only new addition to the party’s top echelons. The announcement came in a media release on Friday, confirming that nominations for the positions of president and vice-presidents closed with just five candidates, eliminating the need for an internal election. Mark Golding, who has led the PNP since November 2020, was uncontested for the presidency, securing another two-year term. His leadership has been credited with the party’s improved performance in the recent general election. Neita Garvey joins incumbent vice-presidents Mikael Phillips (Manchester North Western MP), Ian Hayles (Westmoreland Western MP), and Norman Scott, Chairman of the St Catherine Municipal Corporation. The PNP also expressed gratitude to Senator Donna Scott-Mottley, who chose not to seek re-election as vice-president, acknowledging her significant contributions to the party. The upcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting is scheduled for October 4–5, followed by regional conferences and officer elections. The party’s annual conference will conclude with a private session on November 30, 2025. The PNP reaffirmed its commitment to advancing justice, inclusion, and progress for the Jamaican people.
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Roxanne Robinson celebrates Sterling Music Awards nom
Gospel recording artist Roxanne Robinson is basking in the glow of recognition following her recent nomination for the Sterling Gospel Music Awards. Her single ‘Caribbean Medley’ has been shortlisted in the Local Hit Song of the Year category, marking her first nomination for this prestigious award. ‘I am beyond grateful to be recognized by the country of my birth. This is indeed a welcome home gift backed by heaven,’ Robinson expressed with heartfelt gratitude. The nomination is a significant milestone in her career, especially considering the song’s widespread appeal, amassing over 700,000 streams to date. While she won’t be performing at this year’s ceremony, Robinson remains optimistic about future opportunities. ‘Whatever happens, I’m happy to have reached this far,’ she added. The year 2025 has been a banner year for Robinson, who has already clinched multiple accolades. She won the Urban Contemporary Female Vocalist and People’s Choice Award at the Rhythm of Gospel Awards in the USA. Her latest album, ‘Still Standing,’ released in October 2024, was named Album of the Year at the Intercontinental Music Awards in Canada. Additionally, her track ‘Release Your Power,’ featuring Michael Manhertz, earned the Song of the Year award in the Christian/Contemporary Gospel category. The 11-track album is a powerful blend of declarations, proclamations, encouragement, and worship, resonating deeply with listeners. Robinson’s musical journey began at the age of 12, singing in her church’s youth department and performing duets with her sister. She officially launched her career as a recording artist in 2015 with her self-titled EP, ‘Roxanne Robinson.’ Over the years, she has released impactful tracks like ‘Yahweh,’ ‘Holy Rock of Ages,’ and her recent collaboration with O’Neil Watson, ‘Calypso Medley.’ As the Sterling Gospel Music Awards approach on October 4, 2025, Robinson is poised to end the year on a high note, continuing to inspire audiences with messages of hope, love, and faith. Fans can also look forward to more music and her third annual night of worship, scheduled for October.
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Big People Sundays Groovy Edition: 70s & 80s this Sunday
This Sunday, Ribbiz Ultra Lounge is set to transport patrons back in time with its Big People Sundays Groovy Edition: 70s & 80s event. In collaboration with J Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum and Kool 97FM, the weekly series promises an unforgettable fusion of retro music, vibrant fashion, and high-energy entertainment. DJ Smurf will be at the helm, spinning classic hits and timeless jams throughout the night, ensuring a lively atmosphere that pays homage to the iconic decades. Attendees are encouraged to fully embrace the bold and eclectic fashion trends of the 70s and 80s, from shoulder pads and oversized blazers to tracksuits, maxi dresses, bell-bottom jeans, and tie-dye creations. Brian Chung, co-owner of Ribbiz Ultra Lounge, emphasized the event’s unique appeal, stating, ‘We’re not just offering a throwback; we’re celebrating timeless music, style, and energy.’ Adding to the excitement, prizes will be awarded to the best-dressed guests, offering attendees the chance to showcase their creativity and claim the title of the night’s most stylish. ‘Whether you’re channeling your inner disco diva or rocking bold 80s vibes, this is your moment to shine,’ Chung added. The event promises to be a vibrant celebration of nostalgia, fashion, and music, drawing crowds eager to relive the magic of the 70s and 80s.
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HOPE FOR SUNSHINE
Jamaica’s Under-21 netball team, known as the Young Sunshine Girls, may not have reached the medal stage at the 2025 World Netball Youth Cup, but their head coach, Annett Daley, remains highly optimistic about their future. Daley emphasized the remarkable growth and potential she has observed in the squad, expressing confidence that with the right support and resources, these young players could seamlessly transition into the senior team in the coming years.