National Honours for Jamaicans in the Diaspora

Several Jamaicans in the diaspora are amongst the 150 nationals receiving Honours and Awards from the Government of Jamaica for 2024. These distinctions are conferred on individuals who have contributed greatly to the nation in their fields of expertise. As Jamaican citizens living abroad, they have worked tirelessly at nation-building through their work in healthcare, the film industry, foreign affairs, philanthropy, community development, and entrepreneurial development.

Jamaican actor Audrey Silvia Reid in character.DISTINCTION

The Order of Distinction (OD) is bestowed on Dr. Novlet Davis-Bucknor for her contributions to Community Development and Philanthropy. A New York-based Nurse Practitioner and Humanitarian, Dr. Davis-Bucknor has led a team of volunteer doctors, dentists, nurses, and other healthcare workers to Jamaica on medical missions for more than 10 years, providing health screening, dental exams, medical supplies, diagnostic exams, and education instruction to all in need.

Also receiving the Order of Distinction is Dr. Karren Dunkley, a social justice activist and internationally recognized educator. Dr. Dunkley is being awarded for her unending commitment to the Jamaican Diaspora community in the United States. Her passion for family, education, and justice coupled with her fight to end racial harassment and discrimination was influential in her appointment to the US Department of Justice as a consultant. And importantly, her work as Global Jamaican Diaspora Council member for the US Northeast Region is a reflection of her community spirit and love for her native country.

DANCEHALL QUEEN

Mention the film “Dancehall Queen” to any Jamaican anywhere in the world, and immediately the acclaimed Jamaican actor Audrey Silvia Reid comes front and centre. This much-loved artiste has also been awarded the country’s Order of Distinction for her enormous contributions to the Jamaica Film Industry.

“I am humbled to accept this award with gratitude and humility, knowing my God-given talent has been recognized, said Reid in a chat with Caribbean Today.

From ‘higgler’ to a famous dancehall queen, Reid played the part of Marcia in the film so authentically that she became somewhat of a cult figure. It is this realness that has endeared her to fans and to the filmmakers and playwrights who want to depict reality onscreen and onstage.

Asked about her authenticity, the actor noted: “Over the years I’ve given my talent with integrity and truth. I was never one to water down and dilute whatever task was given to me, whether it’s on stage or the silver screen”.

Reid is also know for her stage performances, particularly with playwright and comedian Oliver Samuels with whom she has toured across the US, Canada, the Caribbean. Born in Franklin Town, East Kingston, Reid had a hard life. But one thing is for sure, she is tenacious, curious, definitely not shy, and always ready to tackle the world. It is these qualities that she brings to her craft, a natural talent that has helped grow the film industry in Jamaica.

The actor wants to leave a legacy, one that will be a positive inspiration to those who aspire to an acting career.

“Being an actor takes lots of discipline, dedication, and commitment. Don't enter the acting profession with the mindset to be rich and famous. To follow in my footsteps, you must be better at it. You must want it,” Reid advised.

MERITORIOUS

For her contributions to the Economic and Technical Development of Jamaican Business Owners in the United States, Marie Ruth Gill is awarded the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service BH(M). The President and CEO of the Miami-based M. Gill & Associates, Inc., Gill founded this

consulting firm in 1990 to help small and minority/women-owned businesses—a fair number Jamaican-owned—with their strategic growth and economic development by connecting them with local and government agencies with resources to help them grow and thrive. Her community outreach, emphasis on small and minority business development, economic development activities, and marketing consulting services has solidified her importance to the diaspora community she has continually supported.

Also conferred with the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service is Mary Maria Diana Joanna Bishop for services in the field of Philanthropy and Contributions to the Development of the Diaspora in Canada. Born in May Pen Jamaica, Bishop migrated to Canada in the 1960s. She has been a staunch advocate for her country, tirelessly fundraising and supporting organisations such as Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation and Arts and Culture Jamaica underscoring her commitment to helping the Jamaican diaspora and indeed anyone in need of support.

Two other Jamaicans in Canada, Howard L. Shearer and Reverend Joseph Tommy Thompson have also been honoured with awards. Shearer with the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander (CD) and Thompson with the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service BH(L).

The honour of the Order of Jamaica (OJ), ranked fourth in the order of precedence, has been bestowed on Her Excellency Audrey Patrice Marks for outstanding service to the Government and people of Jamaica in her contribution to economic development, promotion of social development enterprises, and to Nation-building. The thirteenth Ambassador to the United States of America, Ambassador Marks is Jamaica’s first female Ambassador to the US and has served in that post twice. Prior to her role in government, she was a successful businesswoman with ownership in several businesses. As a board member on several public and private sector organizations she has been instrumental in promoting growth between Jamaica and the United States.

These well-deserved Honours will be presented in Jamaica during a ceremony at Kings House on National Heroes Day, 21 October 2024.