Kingston, Jamaica: Sunday, November 23 is the new date for the staging of the I LOVE JAMAICA Telethon being organised by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport to raise well needed resources for Hurricane Melissa relief efforts.
At a media briefing at the Ministry on Thursday, the Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, shared that the telethon forms part of a series of entertainment and sporting activities aimed at not only providing funds to assist those affected by the hurricane, but also to lift the spirit of the entire nation.
“A telethon symbolises what we do best in Jamaica. That is, we use our talent; we use our culture and togetherness to overcome adversity. The I LOVE JAMAICA Telethon, produced by my Ministry, presented by Red Stripe and powered by Digicel, will take place on a new date, Sunday, November 23, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. It will be carried live on national television stations – CVM, TVJ and PBCJ, and streamed across multiple local and international digital platforms. We will announce the full list of broadcast, streaming and media partners in the coming days,” said Minister Grange.
The telethon will be punctuated by uplifting performances featuring some of Jamaica’s most beloved artistes. Among those already confirmed are Tarrus Riley, Chris Martin, Lukie D, Alaine and Masicka.
“Every dollar raised will go towards hurricane relief. We appreciate every contribution from each member of our national family, including our corporate citizens, and we look forward to your contribution. Of course, there is the Support Jamaica website, supportjamaica.gov.jm and everything that is raised will be registered on that website. The OPM [Office of the Prime Minister] and the Minister of Labour and Social Security will have oversight.” she shared.
In addition to the telethon a series of concerts will take place in a number of cities in North America as well as in the United Kingdom. The concerts will showcase both veteran and contemporary Jamaican talent, along with international collaborators.
The I LOVE JAMAICA concert series will begin in London next Thursday, November 13 at the iconic KOKO Camden featuring Boy George of Culture Club, Ali Campbell of UB40, Emeli Sandé, Carroll Thompson, Janet Kay, Bitty McClean, David Rodigon and several others. There will also be a mega concert at the O2 Arena in London on December 21, 2025. The concert at the O2 will feature UB40 and Culture Club.
Other cities under consideration as well are Miami (December 7) led by Roger Lewis of legendary Reggae Band Inner Circle. International Reggae superstar Shaggy and Sharon Burke are also exploring other opportunities for that area.
New York will host its I LOVE JAMAICA concert on December 12 at the UBS Arena, produced by Bobby Clarke of IRIE JAM.
Additional concerts are being explored for Toronto, Washington DC, Los Angeles, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Nairobi (Kenya).
The sporting fraternity is also playing its part. Minister Grange noted that cricket legend Chris Gayle has pledged his support and will be partnering with the Caribbean Premier League on a number of initiatives to raise funds. The Jamaica Football Federation will also raise funds for hurricane relief
"The Jamaica Football Federation has agreed to allow the Reggae Boyz vs Curacao World Cup Qualifying match at our National Stadium on November 18 as a Relief Effort. The Jamaica Red Cross will be partnering with the JFF and the Ministry to collect donations from patrons at the match,” said the Minister adding that “the JFF is also exploring the possibility of international-friendly matches featuring the Reggae Boyz in the USA and the UK to raise additional funds.”
Presenting partner Red Stripe noted that the company’s commitment to nation building becomes ever more meaningful at this time. Head of Commerce at Red Stripe Sean Wallace pledged to support by giving back to Jamaica in this rebuilding and recovery process.
“When we come together, whether it be industry, government, artistes, and citizens alike, we're gonna be unstoppable. So, on behalf of the entire Red Stripe family, I thank everyone who continues to give, who continues to serve, and who is actually supporting our recovery efforts. Please continue to believe in this beautiful island that we call home,” said Wallace.
For Stephen Murad, Chief Executive Officer at Digicel, given the suffering taking place across the island at this time, it is imperative that something is done and supporting the telethon is just part of his company’s commitment to Jamaica at this time.
“We're in such a place that we are desperate to help. We need the world to step up and help Jamaica. But what I always love, which is why I made Jamaica my home, is the Jamaican spirit. The relentless spirit of Jamaicans cannot be broken and will not be broken. And I am happy to call this my home and stand side by side with our fellow Jamaicans. But we need your help and support, and we need it now” said Murad.
