JCDC honour businesses and individuals in Hanover for their support
Published:Monday | October 13, 2025 | 12:05 AMBryan Miller/Gleaner Writer
Western Bureau:
In a grand show of appreciation, the Hanover chapter of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s (JCDC) recently honoured several businesses and individuals with gifts of appreciation for their sponsorship support and the time they volunteered with activities and events over the last year.
Shiyan Williams, the JCDC parish manager for Hanover, said she is eternally grateful for the support the JCDC got from the businesses and individuals, noting that their contribution went a long way in ensuring the success of the programmes undertaken by the organisation.
According to her, the annual Miss Hanover Festival Queen competition, and the Performing Arts Parish Awards competition, two of the premier events were quite costly, but, through the support that was given, they were able to realise the budget of just over $3 million.
“Without the support from you all, in cash and kind, and also in volunteering your time, the Hanover JCDC would not be able to hold its banner as high as it did for 2025,” Williams told those who were honoured at a Stakeholders Appreciation Awards ceremony at the Global Villa Guest House in Esher, Hanover.
The honorees were listed in three categories - Platinum, Gold and Associate - which was decided on by the level of contributions. Williams used the opportunity to encourage the honorees to continue to support the various JCDC programmes in the parish while appealing to other entities to come onboard as their support is also needed.
Hope, opportunities
Hanover, Custos Lennox Anderson-Jackson, who also paid tribute to the honorees, lauded the work of the JCDC in the parish. He too was honoured for the contribution he made through his personal business, LYL Ultrasound Centre.
“They often say that it takes a community to raise a child, but I am reminded that it also takes a community to nurture culture, build character, and to support the dreams of our young people,” said Anderson-Jackson, on noting that, as an organisation, the JCDC has stood the test of time as one of the country’s most important institution for cultural preservation.
“You have not only given financial backing, but you have also given hope, opportunities and encouragement to young people who dare to dream,” said Anderson-Jackson. “Through your partnership, you have affirmed that culture is not a luxury, it is the very heartbeat of our people, and a vital part of nation building.”
Anderson-Jackson said that each contribution has made an impact, not only on the stage of the events sponsored, but in the lives of individuals and the development of the parish.
“May today’s recognition reminds you that your investment in culture is an investment in Jamaica’s future,” he said. “You are building bridges of opportunities, inspiring excellence and empowering the young people within the parish.”
Heatha Miller-Bennett, the newly elected member of Parliament for Hanover Western, congratulated all the stakeholders and supporters of the JCDC events, describing them as “valued partners of the JCDC”.
“Your kind gestures and support are truly appreciated, and we look forward to future collaborations on these vibrant cultural events” she said. “Cementing this relationship is crucial in preserving our culture, and heritage, and in building our community, and there is much excitement in continuing the work in promoting the identity of our communities.”