Sisters to Sisters TV Mediathon

Raises JA$6.5 Million Dollars for Jamaica’s Young Women
by A. Frischauer-Bernard

Sunday, April 13, was a day of shared joy and pain, a celebration of lives and achievements, the ability to endure abuse and suffering, and to overcome through strength and determination. But most of all, it was about Sisterhood. The CPTC’s (Creative Production & Training Centre) studios were host to a live ‘Mediathon’ entitled “Sisters to Sisters,” under the International Women’s Day theme, “Financing for Gender Equality.”

Marcia Griffiths and Lady G Performed Together

Sponsored by the Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports (MICYS), the objective was to raise JA$10 million for the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation and the establishment of a shelter being built by the Bureau for Women’s Affairs for battered women.

There was an amazing presence of successful women of all professions, both participating and in attendance. Amongst these remarkable women lending their valuable time and talents were The Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange (Minister of Information, Culture & Sport), who’s to be thanked and commended for hosting and taking part in pioneering such a worthy event. Former Minister of Tourism, The Hon. Aloun N’dombet-Assamba, was one of many to share her personal experiences of abuse with viewers. Additional guests included Leonie Forbes, Denise Hunt, Jenny Jenny, Denise “Isis” Miller, and a contingent of media personalities. A truly regal selection of female performers, many of whom not only entertained but helped take calls live on the air, included Nadine Sutherland, Carlene Davis, Queen Ifrica, Cherine Anderson, Alaine, Etana, and D’Angel. One of the many highlights was Lady G performing a combination, very symbolic of sisterhood, with the legendary Marcia Griffiths. It is hoped that the sisterhood experienced at “Sisters to Sisters” will continue and reflect in the industry from this day forward.

Mamayashi (l) Cherine Anderson (2nd left), Macka Diamond (2nd right), Teasea, and Duane Bennett (c)

Many participants were required to make this event happen, and there was an awesome turnout of industry people who provided logistical support. Phone lines were setup to handle the vast amount of calls received and the pledges were numerous. Companies took notice of “Sisters to Sisters” and gave generously. Grace Foods pledged JA$1,000,000 and Anthony Abrahams, from News Talk 93FM, pledged $500,000 and JA$1,000,000 in advertising to the cause. In addition to corporate pledges, musicians Carol Gonzales, Cherine Anderson, and international star Nelly Furtado, who has often been affiliated with Jamaican music and culture, made pledges. Many children called into the studios, excited to take part and made pledges of whatever they could spare, JA$500 or JA$100 contributions, because every little bit helps, and every single donation counts. The fact that the younger generation was so happy to take part is further testimony to the success of the event overall.

After six hours of live performances, interviews and coverage on stations CVM and TVJ, as well as other cable and internet TV stations, including Negril TV, it was estimated that $6.5 million of the $10 million target had been raised! However, it is not over yet. For anyone wishing to pledge, there is still time to make your contributions to this extremely worthy cause. The deadline to reach the targeted goal of $10 million is May 30, 2008. You still have time!

To make a pledge contact the Women’s Center of Jamaica Foundation 1-876-929-7608, or contact editor@reggaereport.com for more information.