Vibrant Celebration of Culture Marked Jamaica Day 2024

The vibrant spirit of local culture was on full display during the Jamaica Day National Civic Ceremony at William Knibb Memorial High School in Trelawny on February 23.

The grand event, held under the theme ‘Celebrating Jamaica: Authentic and Unique… A Fi Wi TREND A Dweet’, was also celebrated simultaneously in two cities in the American state of Iowa – Cedar Falls and Waterloo.

This move marked a historic collaboration between Jamaica and the United States (US) and also symbolised the unity of Jamaicans at home and abroad in celebrating the nation’s rich cultural heritage.

Schools from across the Ministry of Education and Youth’s Region Three, comprising the parishes of Trelawny and St. Ann, were out in full force on Jamaica Day as students were taught the importance of advancing the nation’s values through culture.

In her address, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and Youth, Hon. Marsha Smith, who represented Portfolio Minister, Hon. Fayval Williams, indicated that Jamaica is known globally “because of our culture, values and love”, noting that these continue to resonate with people of all nationalities globally.

“One of the things about the Jamaica brand is that we are known worldwide and there are many Jamaicans at heart. These are persons who have no Jamaican blood in their veins, but when they look in the mirror, they see green, gold and black,” she noted

The State Minister highlighted the contributions of iconic figures such as sprint legend Olympian Usain Bolt, a native of Trelawny, noting that his achievements should serve as an inspiration to all.

She called on attendees to cherish Jamaica Day as an occasion to celebrate excellence and honour the country’s heroes, including teachers, parents, civil servants, and healthcare workers, and reaffirm a commitment to carry on their legacy.

Ms. Smith further acknowledged the work undertaken by stakeholders, “especially from our partners from Iowa” to plan, organise and execute the Day’s proceedings.

The Jamaica Day Planning Committee, led by Senior Education Officer, Marlon Williams, emphasised this year’s theme by encouraging schools to focus on innovations through the creation of products and services as well as the evolution of Jamaica’s music, dance, cultural and creative industries.

He noted that the country’s contributions to the world through reggae music, sports and its status as a leading tourist destination are testament to the talent of Jamaicans.

Mr. Williams pointed out that the collaboration with the cities of Cedar Falls and Waterloo has “set the trend in having Jamaicans here, Jamaicans abroad and, of course, Jamaicans at heart, celebrating who we are”.

William Knibb Memorial High School Principal, Linvern Wright, similarly emphasised the theme of authenticity, and encouraged the students of Region Three and the wider Jamaica to embrace their country’s identity through language, food and music.

Other activities on the day included displays and cultural entertainment, with the highlight being the naming of Usain Bolt as the Culture Icon for 2024.

The event serves as a reminder of the nation’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering spirit as Jamaicans continue to make strides locally and globally.

Among the participating institutions were Westwood High School, Muschette High School, Holland High School, Cedric Titus High School, Falmouth Infant School and Salt Marsh Primary School.

The Ministry of Education and Youth, Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, and Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) jointly spearheaded the Jamaica Day 2024 celebrations.