AJN Local Heroes & Be Inspired Youth Gala and Awards Ceremony

The Association of Jamaican Nationals is a registered charity and representative group comprised of Jamaicans and friends. Our mission is to enhance, promote, and serve the Diaspora community throughout the United Kingdom. Since its establishment in 1990 (formerly known as The Institute of Jamaican Nationals), our organisation has diligently facilitated direct and indirect communication between its members and government and non-governmental departments both domestically and internationally. We cater to the needs of residents and returning residents alike. We are pleased to announce that our prestigious gala and awards ceremony will be held once again at our usual venue, the Holte Suite, Aston Villa FC. This year's event holds particular significance as we commemorate the landmark occasions of Windrush and NHS 75th. In addition to our customary awards, we will be presenting special recognition awards to honour these significant milestones. Event Date: October 14th 6:30 pm - Carriages 2:00 am Our annual award ceremonies have consistently fostered unity and cohesion within the wider community. They provide a crucial historical context by paying tribute to the Jamaican National Heroes while also recognising the positive virtues of Jamaican culture and its people. Moreover, these ceremonies serve as a testament to the remarkable contributions made by Jamaicans to the economic, social, political, and community fabric of the United Kingdom. The objectives of this year's gala and awards ceremony are threefold. Firstly, it provides a platform for Jamaicans and friends in the UK to celebrate Jamaica's National Heritage Week and Black History Month while acknowledging the invaluable contributions of individuals who have tirelessly and selflessly worked towards the advancement of their communities. We proudly honour them as Local Heroes while also recognising our young people in the community with the 'Be Inspired Youth Award.' To ensure the recognition of deserving individuals, we kindly request your nominations for the Local Heroes and Be Inspired Youth Awards. In your nominations, please highlight the exceptional contributions made by the nominees to their communities, emphasising their embodiment of hope, strength, and resilience. Specific examples, projects, initiatives, or actions that showcase their outstanding efforts will greatly enhance their chances of being acknowledged. Nominees can be recognised for various criteria, including but not limited to volunteer work, leadership in community projects, advocacy for social causes, educational initiatives, and innovative approaches to addressing community challenges. The event serves as the primary means through which our organisation raises vital funds to support its operations and our nominated charities. Additionally, we aim to establish and develop a legacy program focusing on the youth within our communities. We are delighted to announce that Professor Keven Fenton CBE, FFPH, London Regional Director at the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, will grace us as our esteemed guest speaker. Additionally, we anticipate the presence of distinguished representatives from the Jamaican High Commission, The Office of the Lieutenancy, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, and other dignitaries. The event will also feature a diverse array of local, national, and international entertainment to captivate our esteemed guests. The evening promises to be a truly enchanting experience. You will savour a rum punch reception followed by an exquisite four-course meal complemented by fine wines. Our international speaker will enlighten and inspire you, while a diverse range of entertainers will captivate your senses. Following the awards presentation, you are invited to dance the night away to the enchanting sounds of the Caribbean. For those seeking networking opportunities, our audience of approximately 500 individuals includes community leaders, business owners, and esteemed figures. We eagerly anticipate your presence at this remarkable gala and awards ceremony, where we will collectively celebrate the accomplishments and positive impact of our community. Please join us in honouring the individuals who have made a profound difference in our society.