Seven overseas Jamaicans honoured at Governor General's Achievement Awards

Seven Jamaicans living abroad have received the Governor General's Achievement Awards for their contributions to national development and the strengthening of ties between the diaspora and Jamaica.

The annual honours programme underscores the role overseas nationals play in building a more resilient Jamaica through sustained partnership. Recipients were drawn from communities in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Africa, Asia, mainland Europe, the Caribbean, and South America.

Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Kamina Johnson-Smith, State Minister Orlando Terrelonge, and Permanent Secretary Ambassador Sheila Sealy-Monteith were among those present at the ceremony.

The Governor General said the seven awardees exemplify steadfast service to Jamaica and significant achievement in their respective fields. Lisa Rutty was recognised for diaspora engagement and humanitarian support. Kristina McPherson was honoured for mentorship and immigrant empowerment. Asha Richards received an award for migration advocacy and disaster response work in the United States.

Dr. Richard White was cited for advancing education and access to social services. Carl Samuels was recognised for preserving Caribbean heritage and strengthening communities. Dr. Sandra Collidrawan was honoured for contributions to diaspora mentorship and youth development. Dr. Nickoline Johnson was awarded for strengthening trade, educational exchange, and cultural cooperation between Jamaica and China.

The Governor General urged members of the diaspora to continue supporting national development and the preservation of Jamaica's legacy, while encouraging younger generations to remain connected to their roots and contribute to the country's growth and resilience.

The Governor General said the honours represent the nation's gratitude for the recipients' persistence and continued devotion to Jamaica, and reaffirm a resolve to deepen engagement with diaspora communities through meaningful opportunities for service, mentorship, and national development.

In closing, the Governor General said the true measure of a nation is not found in its size or wealth, but the willingness of its people to help each other—a quality reflected in the story of Jamaica and its diaspora.