Jamaican Women of Florida (JWOF) first anniversary celebration

FT. LAUDERDALE  – The Jamaican Women of Florida, Inc. (JWOF) marked its first anniversary last Saturday, April 19, 2014 with an eventful Reggae/Jazz Brunch and Fashion Show, at the Broward Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale.  This was also a celebration of their accomplishments so far.

Some 200 patrons came out on a rainy Easter Saturday morning to extend support to the nearly 50 strong membership of professional women and associates, among them the 19 founding members who were instrumental in launching the group with a goal of mentoring, networking and personal development.

To begin the second year of events, the JWOF launched its Powerful Women…Next Generation” Scholarship which was awarded to high school graduate, Miss Jaime Ariel Noicely, who will be attending Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in the Fall.

Next Generation Scholarship Winner

With humility, Miss Noicely was enthusiastic and strong-willed about her honor, which she said “signifies hope and promise” as she embarks on her ambitious goal to pursue a career as an attorney.

The renewable scholarship valued at $1,000 will be awarded annually to a first or second generation Jamaican-American female high school student, “and will encourage the recipient to achieve her four-year educational goal at a tertiary institution” according to JWOF’s President, Dahlia Walker Huntington, Esq.

In her address, Mrs. Huntington also outlined a year of activities accomplished by her team, adding that JWOF continues to explore collaborative efforts locally and partnerships in Jamaica to enhance the mission of the organization.

Keynote Address – Cedella Marley

Special guest to the JWOF’s anniversary was Cedella Marley, Chief Executive Officer of the Marley Group of Companies and daughter of world famed reggae icon, the late Robert Nesta Marley.

Recently appointed global Ambassador for Jamaica’s Reggae Girls, Ms. Marley was presented with a monetary donation from JWOF’s Vice President, Cheryl Wynter, indicating that this contribution would form part of the fundraising efforts for the national female football program.

An accomplished woman herself, the singer, dancer, fashion designer and entrepreneur praised the members of JWOF as they embarked on initiatives to better the role of our Jamaican women across the globe.

“I am excited and empowered sharing room with a group of powerful Jamaica women” she added.

Jamaica’s Deputy Consul General, Dale Jones also congratulated the team of Jamaican women and supporters for their commitment and dedication at improving the image, raising awareness and value of contribution of women as they also engaged in development of young females in our society through mentorship, fundraising and support initiatives. The office of Consul General serves as Honorary Chair of the Jamaican Women of Florida.

After a sumptuous buffet which included Jamaican favorite ackee and saltfish, patrons were entertained by Jamaica’s jazz genius, Eugene Grey and his five-piece band as they performed hits from his repertoire of medleys – jazz, folk and reggae. He was joined by another Jamaican talent, songstress Sabrina Williams, who brought the house down with her selection of nostalgic reggae rhythms.  Guests spontaneously enjoyed receipts of giveaways and spot prizes throughout the event.

Models graced the runway wearing high fashions by Jamaican designer, Hope Blake-Wade of Hope Wade Designs, New York, as she introduced her fashion trend to South Florida from her 2014 line. Feminine pieces in flowy and ethnic fabrics, color, and unique designs on stage blended with the stunning array of fashion pieces worn by the patrons at the event.

The models also showcased a line of swimwear created also by Jamaican designer Denise Heffes of Spunk Swimwear, Inc.

The fashion show segued into the highlight of the day which featured JWOF’s Signature Shopping Spree  – as women gathered at the Marketplace spending on one-of-a-kind items from clothing and footwear, accessories – bags and jewelry – gourmet foods, books and flowering plants by vendors from Jamaica, New York and Florida. And emotions were evoked as old friends reunited, and there was time for networking, molding new friendships, and enrolment for new members to this vibrant organization.

The event flowed with enthusiasm and zeal from Mistress of Ceremonies, Sherylle Francis, Esq.  The invocation was done by Mrs. Janice McIntosh, Chief Representative of Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), Florida, while the vote of thanks were read by Alison Smith, Esq.

Title sponsor for the Reggae/Jazz Brunch & Fashion Show was PNC Bank with additional support from The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), For Jamaica; Angels 4U (Jamaica); Crichton Mullings & Associates; Friends of Good Shepherd; Golding Law Group; Goldson Spine; Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel, LLP; Law Offices of Denzle G. Latty, PA; Law Offices of Dahlia Walker, PA; Maars Auto; Reading Pays More; Robinson Law & Mediation; Laparkan Shipping and Victoria Mutual Building Society (VMBS) among others.