Rhona Dunwell and her daughters, Britanny and Courtney, celebrated at her ‘Triple Twenty’ 60th birthday celebration in Toronto. PHOTO BY SOPHIA FINDLAY BY SOPHIA Findlay DR ANDREW B. Campbell, a Jamaican Canadian educator and author known as ‘Dr ABC’, made a significant impact on the education landscape with the launch of his groundbreaking Dr ABC Educational Scholarship Foundation Canada and Jamaica, dubbed ‘Iron Sharpens Iron’, on February 4 at the Parkview Manor in Toronto. He announced his offering of almost $7,000 towards the fund, which included a personal donation of $5,000, with the rest a percentage from each ticket sale. Campbell noted that the seven scholarships were not only allotted to individuals pursuing their college/ university education, but earmarked as well for careers in the trades. Two will be for black students in Canada (The Journey Awards), another two for Jamaicans in Jamaica (The Adina Awards); two for the trades (The Toolbox Award), and another for someone in the LGBQ community (The ‘Invisible’ Award). Almost 200 guests, including the media and other stakeholders, witnessed the occasion as he outlined in his keynote address the importance of giving back to the community. “Keep yourself sharpened, because you can’t give what you don’t have. Too many of us are running on empty and are expecting to pour into others – not possible. If you force it, then you give a trickle, or dregs. Many of you are getting dregs – not because people are bad – they just don’t have anything left to offer you,” he stated from the podium. He said persons should be aware of the things that make them dull and that self-care is optimal, as anything less than to take care of ourselves is not proving our value and worth. “Self-care is a must, and as my mother used to say, ‘Disappoint your doubters, thus, stay sharp.’” Dr ABC is an esteemed assistant professor at the University of Toronto who is committed to advocating against racial discrimination and promoting inclusivity in the educational system. He is recognised for his exceptional work and was honoured by the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education’s prestigious 2022 award, Excellence in Initial Teacher Education. He was also an awardee, among two others–Pastors Eddie Jjumba and Judith James–at the Jamaican Canadian Association’s Boonoonoonos Brunch 2024, dubbed ‘Black Resistance’, last Sunday, February 11, in Toronto. Campbell was unapologetic about being his authentic self by having at least two outfit changes, while encouraging his guests to make bold moves, support each other by networking, share their stories, and give honest feedback. “Kotch the door for others when you don’t have the full access, because we live in a space where we are still fighting to get in. I know many people who are disappointed when they come to Canada – because it is not like they see on TV or Instagram – so be honest; tell what it takes and be prepared to help others. Inspire and share ‘how you got over’ by sharpening others; share information of black business owners, such as therapists, spa, gym … provide honest feedback to build them further and not encouraging mediocre, because we want to, and must support, our own. But we must also hold our own to that high standard we want,” he said. DJ Black Cat finished the high-energy afternoon but before a sumptuous three-course meal, while educator and author Canute Lawrence read from his hardcover book of poem, Pathology of a Pandemic. THE WEEKLY GLEANER | FEBRUARY 15 - FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 10 Single guy, aged 55 years old, is looking for a female companion, aged 40 – 55 years old for a serious friendship or relationship. Must enjoy going to the movies, dancing, bowling, drive out, shopping, cooking, swimming, dining out at bars and clubs. Interested person should call ANDREW at: 647.404.8462 WANTED: FEMALE COMPANION Dr ABC Educational Scholarship Foundation Canada and Jamaica launch Dr Andrew B. Campbell of the Dr ABC Educational Scholarship Awards giving the keynote address at the launch event. PHOTO BY SOPHIA FINDLAY Sharon Marley (centre) and her daughter Donisha Prendergast, along with moderator Master T, cut a birthday cake in honour of Bob Marley on his birthday, February 6, in Toronto. PHOTO BY SOPHIA FINDLAY I, ALONG with others, celebrated the late Bob Marley’s 79th birthday with his daughter Sharon Marley (three-time Grammy Award winner with Ziggy Marley and The Melody Makers) and her daughter, Donisha, his granddaughter, who continued the tradition that her grandmother Rita started with prayers, incense, and fellowship. The event was ‘A Conversation with Sharon Marley’ put on by the foundation Humanity Ova Vanity, headed by Donisha. It was held at The Don on Danforth, which attracted eager supporters who jammed to a nice vibe. Cornmeal porridge was served, birthday cake, vegan fare, Ethiopian coffee, and a tea made especially for Sharon, named ‘I’mperfect’. A replica of Bob and Rita’s first record shop in Trench Town was erected. Moderator for the evening was Master T, who skilfully interviewed Marley. She made several references to musician Grub Cooper, formerly of Fab 5 Band and various pantomime productions. As he was also in the house, she officially introduced him to the audience. He was asked to stand up for ease of reference, which earned him resounding applause. Marley was also on tour promoting her recording single with Big Youth (Steppah), which she performed at the Art Gallery of Ontario on Friday, February 9. The event also featured ‘RasTa: A Soul’s Journey’, which tells the story of Donisha’s journey to eight countries to explore the roots and evolution of Rastafari. GLOBAL JAMAICA Diaspora Council elected representative Rhona Dunwell held her 60th birthday party on Saturday, February 3 (though her actual date of birth is New Year’s Day, January 1), which was dubbed ‘Triple Twenty’, at the luxurious Sheraton Hotel in Toronto. It was nothing short of enchanting and was the epitome of elegance, exclusivity, and exquisiteness. With a heartwarming dress code of ‘all black’, every guest added a touch of sophistication to the festivities. But it was the birthday girl herself who stole the show, stepping into the spotlight in a breathtaking, gold, sequinned dress designed exclusively for her, radiating absolute goddess vibes. Surrounded by close friends, beloved family, and supportive colleagues, Rhona’s milestone moment was showered with deserved praise and admiration. A special round of applause goes to her remarkable daughters, who orchestrated an unforgettable celebration with all the pomp and pageantry befitting a queen. As laughter filled the air and joyful conversations in every corner, guests relished the sumptuous delight of a five-course meal. And with the eye-catching 360 booth, everyone had the chance to capture memories, immortalising the spectacular evening as the pinnacle of entertainment, which also had a female vocalist and saxophonist. 11 A+ for Yvette Blackburn’s birthday soiree GREAT MUSIC, beautiful people, copious cuisine selections and premium beverages, are clear giveaways that you’re in for a treat, especially when it comes to celebratory occasions. Well, Yvette Blackburn’s birthday party, which happened on Canada’s Labour Day long weekend, Saturday, September 4, in Pickering, Ontario, Canada, was no exception to that rule. The Toronto District School Board elementary teacher and Canadian representative of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, in her invites, warned guests to wear shoes for dancing. She was not joking! The tented DJ aced the assignment, turning the backyard in a literal dancefloor as no one stood still. The outdoor setting was perfect for comfort and a most relaxing atmosphere. A food tent housed the delicious offerings of traditional Jamaican fare and some Italian dishes. An inviting dessert table with mouth-watering treats was evidently a hit by the end of the night. …if you’re hot, I’m at your spot! Yvette Blackburn (right) with Sophia Findlay. CONTRIBUTED THE WEEKLY GLEANER | SEPTEMBER 9 - 30, 2021 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | ADVERTISEMENT Findlay Finds… AMIDST THE fever-pitch vibe of the Masani Productions 28th Anniversary Rastafest showcase held recently at the popular Reggae Lane, Toronto, one couldn’t help noticing booths laden with exotic, eye-catching assortments of colourful African and Caribbean-inspired craft pieces. Of special note was the Love Jewelry and Accessories display of an eclectic mix of craft jewellery and other interesting artisan items. Shopping was easy, though it was hard to choose from the many designs and ware. Chef Selwyn Taste! … lasted TORONTO CAME alive during the summer with the re-opening of patios and a general ease of Covid-19 restrictions, so celebrated Jamaican Canadian chef, Selwyn Richards, brought a festive energy like no other to the spacious grounds of the Jamaican Canadian Centre, recently, when he hosted his ‘Chef Selwyn Taste!’ event. The Chef Selwyn Taste! has been conceptualized as ‘something uniquely different’ which was welcomed as a fresh idea for all in attendance. Multiple tents were set up as food stations to transform the locale into a frenzied buffet line of sorts for patrons, who really couldn’t get enough of the roll- out of tantalising new recipes. Mouth-watering entrées of Jerk Chicken Lasagne, Ackee and Smoked Salmon Val-au-Vent, Boneless Braised Oxtail sliders with Portabella Mushroom with Onion Jam (my fave), Boneless Jerk Chicken Breadfruit chips, Roasted Yellow Yams, Ratatouille, Rice & Peas with Mango Salsa, Roulade of Red Snapper Fillet and Candied Yams were among the scrumptious fare, infused with a traditional Jamaican base. To-die-for was the dessert choice of rum cake with grapenut ice-cream topped with Guava Jerk sauce and sprinkled with blueberries, and the taste of raspberries. Of course, mango cheesecake was among the Art of Catering production. The experience was truly a food lover’s dream! Exco Levi- Black Creek Mix IF THE Class Resto Lounge looked a bit scanty for the album launch of five-time Juno Award winner, Exco Levi, blame it on the COVID-19 restrictions for indoor gathering because the occasion of his CD release album Black Creek Mix- party on August 28, in Toronto was fire! DJ Wiz of VIBE 105 FM and Danae Peart, former CEO of VX3Exchange and VIBE 105 FM, turned up the heat but even this was not enough for the man of the evening, Exco, who brought the fuel, alongside Tiffanie Malvo, Krytixx, Eyesus, Tristan 5 Star among others. Journey Sound did not disappoint either with the execution of the tracks. Fall for lipsticks this fall THE MARY Kay brand is still thriving, and the latest catalogue boasts a new, improved formula, elegantly packaged for the wide selection of cosmetics. Brampton-based Jamaican beauty powerhouse Juliet Creary, a sales director with the brand boasts, “The Stiletto and Poppy red semi-matte lipsticks really pop, so there is no mistaking their truly high-pigmented colours. Both are in demand and suit most complexions.” Of course, I had to add those to my makeup arsenal. Was it necessary to have another lipstick? You bet! After all, it’s a new season; it’s Fall, and ladies, I daresay, it is the call for change. There is no denying the renewed energy that comes from incorporating a simple trend to one’s style. Loving the semi-matte formula because you can wear your mask without a smear campaign happening when you take it off. The colours brighten your face and your day. Creary is also a registered nurse and describes herself as, ‘a woman whose mission in life is to empower other women to look and feel their absolute best.’ Her forecast for the near future is owning the company’s pink Cadillac. “It’s a big deal and I’m planning for it,” she warns. Sophia Findlay is a style connoisseur and a Toronto-based journalist and content curator. | Email: sophia.findlay @gleanerna.net and/or sophiafindlay@bell.net | Instagram: sofifindlay | Twitter: Sophia Findlay1 60th birthday party Continuing the tradition
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