Leonie Forbes Collection Donated to National Library

More than 200 pieces of archival material from the collection of late Jamaican actress, broadcaster and educator, Leonie Forbes, have been donated to the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ).

The collection, comprising manuscripts, trophies, awards, photographs and newspaper articles and memorabilia were handed over on Wednesday (June 14) at a ceremony held at the NLJ, 12 East Street, Kingston.

Ms. Forbes died on October 25, 2022 at the age of 85.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, in her remarks at the ceremony said Ms. Forbes was one of Jamaica’s most revered actresses, noting that over the course of her career spanning more than five decades she “earned the respect and admiration of not just audiences but her fellow practitioners”.

“Leonie possessed a voice that knew no equal. She spoke with clarity, her voice never to be missed, as her personality came alive every time she spoke,” she noted.

Ms. Grange said the late actress was committed to Jamaica and had dedicated her time to supporting the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s Festival of the Arts (Speech and Drama).

She noted that Ms Forbes spent time speaking to and encouraging young upcoming talents, and also provided academic support to the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.

“Her willingness to share her vast knowledge and experience with young thespians was one of the last memories of her which will last for a very long time,” Ms. Grange said.

Veteran broadcaster, Fae Ellington and Poet Laureate of Jamaica (2014-2017), Professor Emeritus Mervyn Morris, along with theatre and media personalities, were at the handover ceremony.

Members of the public interested in undertaking research on the life and work of Leonie Forbes can contact the library via nljresearch@nlj.gov.jm or by visiting the entity’s website (https://nlj.gov.jm/).