GoodHeart | Disc jockeys step up for a cause

Rebuilding requires all hands on deck, and at Jakes Hotel Treasure Beach, employees rolled up their sleeves and got to work after Hurricane Melissa. Their efforts paid off: less than three months after the category five storm last year, the hotel reopened its doors to guests. Though still far from fully complete, the Henzell family is grateful for the ongoing support of employees, family, and friends. One such friend is globally renowned DJ David Rodigan, who contacted proprietor Jason Henzell shortly after the storm and flew to Jamaica to perform at Dubwise: Many Rivers to Cross last Friday, raising funds to help rebuild the hotel and support initiatives founded by the BREDS Foundation.

As Rodigan explained to GoodHeart, he was moved to assist because of his history with the Henzell family, and also with Jamaica.

“We have been friends for decades. Back in the day, I used to come here to 10A [West King’s House Road] and stay a few times with the family as this was their home and I always had an open invitation. And that’s the thing about Jamaicans, they will welcome you into their home to break bread with them. That Jamaican spirit of warmth and hospitality speaks to the goodness of the people. So, of course I would hop on a plane when needed to assist in whatever way I can,” he said.

The Dubwise concert drew a massive crowd, leaving Henzell humbled. He described it as overwhelming to see just how much Jakes Hotel meant, not only to Rodigan, but to Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora.

“The truth of the matter is that we learnt a lot from Beryl. When I look at the devastation, it is like the Lord said, ‘I’m gonna give you half one year and half the next’ because that’s the only way I can rationalise it in my mind. The people lost everything, so I could never look at our damage and complain because I knew we had the strength and support to build back. I was concerned, but never worried, as I had faith that people would come forward and we would do it together.”

Rebuilding, Henzell said, became a family affair with everyone stepping in and stepping up. “All of the Jakes’ family of employees came together. The front desk team pitched in to do whatever they needed, so there was no more job description. That’s what happens in a crisis. Some people run from a crisis and others run into a crisis and say, ‘Just let me know what I can do.’” When Rodigan and others came to Jakes’ aid, Henzell said it cemented that circle of trust, as friendships are not defined by the good times, but by when you actually need help.

“Rodigan didn’t hesitate; Rory from Stone Love didn’t waiver; Delano from Renaissance immediately said yes, he’s onboard and this is a testament to their capacity to give without asking ‘what is in it for me?’” he added.

While he is still unable to put a dollar figure to the cost of rebuilding, Henzell admitted the challenge of juggling cancellations, coupled with insurance and other financial obligations were at times almost overwhelming.

“It was like juggling four or five balls and keeping your head on straight. You just have to have faith that you are going to get through and just celebrate your small victories. With the re-opening, my sister chose the date of December 18 [2025], and at first, I thought it was a little premature, but then I said it’s better that we open even if not all the rooms are ready.”

Currently, they have four more rooms to be completed with a February 7 deadline. The hotel occupancy is at approximately 30 per cent, but he expects a gradual return of their loyal guests as the year progresses.

“I sometimes have to ask myself if I would book a room at a hotel that was damaged, and the answer is no, so I know it will take some time. It’s a turning point, and I really feel like the tide will turn and the next winter season is going to be one of the best Jamaica has ever seen. The next few months will be tricky, but we will emerge stronger than ever,” Henzell said.

nicola.cunningham@gleanerjm.com