Eight high performance women selected as Women of Worth (WOW) were acknowledged in a reception hosted by the North Coast Times on Thursday last, May 8, at Couples Sans Souci Resort and Spa, St Mary. They are: Audrey Lecky, farmer, bakery owner and president of the Jamaica Bakers Association; Gilzene Rose Fearon, guidance counsellor and university lecturer; Judith Scott, retired senior accountant and service station manager; Donna McKoy, pharmacist and registered nurse; Yvonne Martin-Daley, senior superintendent and head of St Ann police; Valerie Martin-Wellington, company director and hardware manager; Lorna Lee Nation, head of College of Hospitality and Marjorie Robinson, retired registered nurse and community activist. All the women are highly involved with community and social activities. They are from Trelawny, St Ann and St Mary, three of the parishes covered by the North Coast Times.
Publisher of the North Coast Times, Franklin McKnight explained that the newspaper had been recognizing women through its annual WOW feature for the past five years but this was the first time the women were being brought together for anyone year and recognized outside of the features done on them. He explained the process of the company, each year getting nomination, then approaching the women to be selected and featured in The Times. He said all the women selected were “people you would be happy to associate with, women you’d be proud to call your mother or have as your wife or you’re your daughter emulate.” He said the women were all high achievers and had done well in their vocations and professions but it was their character that made them stand out.
Citations were read to each of the WOWs before being presented to the women. Guest speaker, radio personality, actress and broadcaster, Elise Kelly praised the women and, quoting Proverbs and citing the qualities of a virtuous woman, commended the eight. She said it was clear they had their dignity and purpose and she encouraged women to keep their lady like qualities while outperforming their male counterparts. Mr Kelly said “Let us continue to wow the world with our intuition, with our emotional strength, with our integrity, with our militancy and fair play.” She was introduced by Alesia Edwards and a presentation made to her by Orville Wright. During the programme, occasion was provided for the honourees to meet each other and guests. Tracey Facey, sales supervisor and chief architect of the function gave the vote of thanks. Entertainment was provided by Roselyn Bailey budding entertainer, and a graduate of College of Hospitality and Vocational Skills, Ocho Rios. Refreshment followed
