More diaspora Jamaicans recognised with national honours

Elaine Grant-Bryan, Jamaica’s honorary consul to Atlanta, sees the increase in diaspora figures receiving national awards as a sign to Jamaicans abroad that their contributions to the country are appreciated. Ten Jamaicans who live in the United States and Canada were recognised in diverse fields at the National Honours and Awards ceremony at King’s House on October 19. Grant-Bryan, honorary consul in Atlanta since 2018, was awarded the Order of Distinction (Officer Class) for service to the diaspora. “I believe it’s good for the diaspora to see that we are included. This is an award that’s usually given to Jamaicans in Jamaica, so for those of us in the diaspora it will encourage us to work even harder. It’s a positive movement,” she said. The number of diaspora recipients increased by four in 2026 compared to last year. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, based in Canada, received the Order of Jamaica (OJ), the country’s fourth-highest national honour. The Government cited her contribution to nation-building in Jamaica and Canada. Others awarded the OD (Commander Class) were Don Topping, for his contribution to Jamaica’s broadcasting industry; Dr Evan Dale Abel, chair of the Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, for his contribution to medicine in endocrinology; and Dr Wesley Junior Hall, chancellor of the University of Toronto, for his contribution to nation-building in Jamaica and Canada. Officer Class (OD) awardees also include Gary Williams, founder and chairman of Children of Jamaica Outreach (COJO); Claudette Powell, chair of the Jamaica Diaspora Health Task Force; Karl Hale, for contribution to philanthropy and sports; and Susan Wendy Hart for contribution in philanthropy and community development. Roy Another Walters, known as DJ Roy, received the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service for his contribution to broadcasting. — Howard Campbell