Jamaican alumni body in New York to mark 35th anniversary

Derrick Heaven, a former Jamaican consul general to New York and the person credited with founding the Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations (USA) Inc (UJAA), is among individuals to be honoured during the organisation’s 35th anniversary awards luncheon.

Founded in 1990, UJAA is a not-for-profit organisation and volunteer coalition supporting education in Jamaica and the diaspora through scholarships, sponsorships, and strategic programmes.

“This milestone is not just about looking back – it’s about doubling down on our promise to support education for generations to come,” said UJAA President Donovan Wilson. “Our honourees embody the spirit of service, excellence, and community that has fuelled UJAA for 35 years.”

Other notable honourees include Dr Karren Dunkley, Dr Trevor Dixon and Jamaica’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, Christopher Chaplin.

The luncheon will be held on September 14 at the Greentree Country Club in New Rochelle, NY, and will be under the patronage of Jamaica’s consul general to New York, Alsion Wilson.

The event will honour outstanding leaders and organisations in Jamaica and the diaspora whose work reflects UJAA’s unwavering commitment to education.

This signature event occurs every five years and is the seventh quinquennial celebration that serves as the union’s opportunity to recognise persons and organisations in the diaspora community and in Jamaica who are aligned with a similar vision/mission.

Other honourees are R. ‘Perry’ Bloomfield, Melanie Forrest-George, Evelyn Godden, Hubert Guscott, Norma Jarrett, Colet Pinnock Watkins, Lesleyann Samuel, Gloria Thompson, and Cherika Wilson.

Community honourees are Dr Garfield Clunie, Leo Gilling, June O’Connor, Naala Royale-Holder, Joel Webbe, and Sarah Williams.

The celebration will feature a cocktail reception at noon, followed by entertainment, lunch, dancing, and the presentation of awards.

Irwine Clare, Sr will serve as master of ceremonies.

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