AJA honours one of its own

On Saturday, August 6, the Atlanta Jamaica Association (AJA) held its annual gala event - The Jamaica Independence Ball and Scholarship Awards to mark Jamaica's 49th anniversary of Independence. The event was held in collaboration with the Atlanta Jamaica Cultural and Education Fund at the luxurious Georgia International Convention Center, Concourse, College Park, Georgia.

This year's special award was presented to Elaine Grant Bryan, "in recognition of her contributions to the positive image of Jamaica as an outstanding Jamaican in Atlanta. Making the presentation was Errol Ritchie the president of the AJA. Bryan who is a contributing writer to The Gleaner's Flair Magazine is an empowerment speaker, real estate broker, Atlanta Mayor's Phoenix Award recipient, Leadership Sandy Springs alumni council member and 2010-11 GSCA Award Region VI Counsellor of the Year. She has received several other prestigious awards for her work in education and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Errol Ritchie is the owner of Tropic Products International Inc and a major importer/distributor of Caribbean-oriented products, serving wholesalers, retailers and restaurants in Georgia and adjoining states. Ritchie is an exclusive agent for many Jamaican brands and most farmers' markets in the Atlanta area. He attributes his success to: his extensive knowledge of the market, loyalty, integrity and proven marketing expertise; important factors that differentiate his company from the competitors and has resulted in its success."

Keynote speaker at the event was Dr Marcia Forbes and Dr Noel Erskine was the master of ceremonies. Among those present were: Gregory Bryan, husband of the recipient; Jamaican Consul Vin Martin, Patrick and Judith Silvera, Len and Barbara Haughton and attorney Bernadine Llayne.