Jamaicans Encouraged to Use Resources to Assist Others

Jamaicans are being encouraged to use their abilities, skills, and resources to make a difference in the lives of others, and assist with the development of the country.

This charge was given by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, during this year’s staging of the annual Governor-General’s Achievement Awards (GGAA) pinning ceremony, held at King’s House, on November 12.

The Governor-General said it is hoped that the achievements of the recipients will be used to inspire Jamaicans to embrace volunteerism and service to family, youth and education in their communities.

“This occasion is a demonstration also that there are many Jamaicans who strive for excellence, not only to better their own lives but to contribute to the well-being of others. Our honourees reaffirm my belief that there are enough good people in Jamaica to cause us not to fear for the future but rather collaborate to keep our country on solid ground,” he said.

The Governor-General added that it is hoped that their stories of fortitude, determination and triumph will leave a very solid impression on everyone’s mind.

He expressed confidence that most of the recipients will return to King’s House for a State honour, if they stay committed and build on the achievements they have earned so far.

He emphasised that the value of volunteerism is much deeper and fulfilling than money can ever measure. “We cannot put a monetary value on ordinary people doing extraordinary things. I want to assure you that our awardees,  their shared sense of volunteerism, their community involvement and educational achievement, is what is right with Jamaica and they are part of the fundamental pillars for building a brighter tomorrow,” the Governor-General said.

During the ceremony, 38 exceptional Jamaicans who have excelled in voluntarism, community development and education were  recognised  in two categories – 18 to 35 years,  and  35 years and older.

The ceremony marked the culmination of events for the 2015 Governor-General’s Achievement Awards and was held under the theme: ‘Values through Volunteerism. Impacting Communities: One Community at a Time’.

The GGAA began in 1991 under the leadership of then Governor-General, the late Sir Howard Cooke, to recognise Jamaicans 35 years and older, who had achieved greatly, despite difficult and challenging socio-economic circumstances, and are making substantial contributions to the nation, but were not recipients of National Honours and Awards.

This programme was expanded by former Governor-General, Sir Kenneth Hall, in 2006 to include youth aged 18 to 35, for excellence in academia and voluntary service, as well as individuals in the Diaspora who were making significant contributions to Jamaica and their host countries.

In February 2014, the GGAA and the ‘I Believe Initiative’, launched by the current Governor-General, were merged to create the Governor-General’s Programme for Excellence (GGPE).