Upcoming Events: Free Publishing Information Session Every Wednesday Written by Karajah Yashar, Inspiring Authors Journalist | Chief Officer of Blackstone Publishing Website: www.bspbooks.com | Website: www.AxumFederation.org | Email: ziongates1930@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/KarajahYashar | Instagram: www.instagram.com/bspbooks1 KUOMagazine.com 51 Official Men & Women of Kulture
KUOMagazine.com 52 Official Men & Women of Kulture The Jamaican American Association of Central Florida Inc. (JAAOCF) marked a significant milestone this year, celebrating its 40th year of service to the community. To commemorate this occasion, the association kicked off the year by participating in the MLK Parade and Reception at the West Oaks Mall in Ocoee, Florida, on January 20, 2025. For the first time in the association's history, members of the JAAOCF "Success Club," led by Ms. Omaria Watson, participated in the after-parade reception, making it an unforgettable experience. The JAAOCF has been a long-term supporter of the parade, and this year's participation held special significance. I was privileged to initiate the JAAOCF Success Club's participation in the MLK Reception. My primary objective was to showcase the exceptional talents of our young members, while paying tribute to the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I extend my sincerest gratitude to the City of Ocoee organizers for their cooperation, guidance, and assistance. The tireless efforts of the organizers in promoting unity, equality, and diversity is impressive. Their dedication to preserving the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is truly inspiring, and the JAAOCF is proud to be a part of the event each year. The young members of the "Success Club" who participated in the reception were (Top L-R: Sanaa, Ms. Cannetta (Chairperson), Omaria, Ms. Anna (Recording Secretary), Onieka, (Bottom Middle L-R: Labella & Camila), “Jamaican American Association of Central Florida Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Memorable MLK Parade & Reception Participation”
KUOMagazine.com 53 Official Men & Women of Kulture I asked our young members about their experience participating in the MLK reception, and these are their thoughts: Labella: “It was fun and exciting to be at the MLK parade and reception, because I got to see lots of people celebrating, and it made me feel really happy and special.” Camila: "I felt proud to participate, and thought that if the older children could do it, then so could I." Sanaa: "It made me feel really good to participate, and it was nice to receive so many compliments. I was inspired by my parents to participate." Onieka: "I felt important and special to do it, because I felt I was doing something good for the community." Omaria: "It made me feel like I was doing some level of civic duty. I felt honored to participate, and would love to do so again if given the opportunity." The Jamaican American Association of Central Florida Inc. continues to uphold its mission to preserve, enhance, and promote cultural awareness, and to serve the Central Florida community and beyond. To learn more about our causes, initiatives and events, visit our website www.jaaocf.com. I invite you to join us in our mission to promote unity, diversity, and community service. Ms. Joan Edghill, M.Ed. Island To Island Contributing Writer Author & Poet of "Still We Smile" (under the pseudonym Joan M. Scott-Lewis) President of Jamaican American Association of Central Florida Inc. (JAAOCF) Vice President of This Is Jamaica Inc. | Ambassador for The Strength to Breathe Inc. Contributing Writer on Florida Sun Newspaper. Host of the show “Community Chat” on www.crrfm.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/joanedghill | Instagram: www.instagram.com/joanedghill Email: sljoanm@gmail.com | Website: www.JAAOCF.com Members of the JAAOCF "Success Club" participate in the MLK Parade and Reception.
KUOMagazine.com 54 Official Men & Women of Kulture
KUOMagazine.com 55 Official Men & Women of Kulture
KUOMagazine.com 57 Official Men & Women of Kulture “Honoring Women’s Voices with Mrs. Elaine Witter” March is Women’s History Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements, resilience, and impact of women across all industries. From leadership to innovation, women continue to break barriers and create lasting change in their communities. Since its founding in 2016, Caribbean Rhythms Radio Network (CRR Network) has been a dynamic online platform dedicated to serving the global Caribbean community that reaches Afro-Caribbean, English, Spanish, Creole, and African American listeners in over 65 countries. With a diverse lineup of programming, it delivers community services, live news from Florida, the Caribbean, and the BBC, health and wellness insights, emergency service updates, and motivational and spiritual content. The network also provides a platform for in-depth interviews with community leaders, doctors, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and professionals from the Caribbean Diaspora. Beyond radio broadcasting, CRR Network actively promotes Caribbean entertainment, organizing concerts and cruises featuring legendary artists such as Bunny Rugs, Glenn Washington, Richie Stephens, Everton Blender, Richie Spice, Mikey Spice, John Holt, Mighty Sparrow, Sean Paul, Frankie Paul, Lady Saw, Lady Patra, and more. Today, I am honored to welcome Mrs. Elaine Witter, Manager of Caribbean Rhythms Radio Network (CRFM.com), its impact on the Caribbean community, and the exciting future ahead for an exclusive interview with KUOMagazine.com. With a distinguished career in broadcasting, Mrs. Witter has been instrumental in amplifying Caribbean culture and voices, paving the way for greater representation in the media. Through her leadership, she has not only uplifted the voices of many but also set a powerful example for women striving to make an impact in the industry. Mrs. Witter, thank you for taking the time to share your journey and insights with us in celebration of “Women’s History Month.” Debbie: How do you think women can support and uplift each other in the workplace? Thank you, Ms. Debbie, for giving me the opportunity to speak with you on behalf of the CRR Network in honor of Women's History Month. I believe women can support and uplift each other in the workplace by fostering a caring and collaborative environment. This includes showing kindness to coworkers, taking initiative as team players, and ensuring that tasks are completed with excellence. Additionally, mutual respect is key—regardless of one’s position. One of my guiding principles comes from Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." If we approach our work with this mindset daily, we can create a workplace where support and encouragement thrive. Debbie: Could you share with our readers your career journey and how you became the manager of Caribbean Rhythms Radio Network(crrfm.com)? My career journey began in 1988 when I obtained my BSN in Nursing, followed by a master’s degree in nursing in 1993. Although my background is in healthcare, I have always had a deep love for music. In 2020, I started streaming music on CRR Network, and in 2024, I stepped into the role of manager. It has been an exciting transition, blending my passion for music with leadership in the media. Continues on page 58
KUOMagazine.com 58 Official Men & Women of Kulture Debbie: In your opinion, how can the radio industry better support and promote women's voices and perspectives? The radio industry can better support and promote women's voices by providing more opportunities for women to become broadcasters, allowing them to express their views and concerns freely. A great example of this is within the CRR Network, where approximately 70% of our radio hosts are women. This representation is essential in ensuring that women’s perspectives are heard, valued, and amplified. Debbie: As we approach Women’s History Month in March 2025, what message would you like to share with women? My message to women is this: "Nothing comes easy. Follow your dreams and vision, work hard, and don’t let anyone or anything deter you. Trust God, and trust your journey—you will succeed." Debbie: How has your personal and professional journey prepared you for your current role as the manager of CRFM.com? My personal journey prepared me for managing CRR Network because of my lifelong love for music. Having lived in New York for over 40 years, I grew up listening to Jamaican radio hosts and spending weekends at various clubs. Music was my way of relieving stress while attending nursing school. This early exposure made it easy for me to curate and appreciate a wide range of music. On the professional side, I have been a registered nurse for nearly 40 years, holding both a BSN and a master’s degree in nursing. My first leadership role was as a Nurse Manager in Ambulatory Care in Brooklyn, NY, and I continued in various managerial roles throughout my career. In total, I have spent 27 years in management, which has given me the skills and experience needed to lead CRR Network effectively. I truly believe that God’s blessings and my leadership background have prepared me for this role. Thank you again, Ms. Debbie, for this opportunity to share my journey with CRR Network. Thank I appreciate KUOMagazine for recognizing women in leadership and amplifying our voices during Women’s History Month. It is an honor to be part of this celebration, and I hope my story inspires others to pursue their passions fearlessly. Thank you once again, Mrs. Witter, for this exclusive interview. Throughout our conversation, you have shared invaluable insights on the power of women supporting one another, the journey to leadership, and the critical role of media in amplifying women's voices. Your story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and purpose. As we celebrate Women’s History Month and beyond, let us remember that our voices, our stories, and our leadership truly matter. May we continue to uplift and inspire one another, creating spaces where all women can thrive and succeed. On behalf of KUOMagazine.com, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Elaine Witter for her time, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the industry. Your work continues to inspire, and we honor you today and always. Written by Ms. Debbie “Jolly” Jarrett De Source: Kallaloo 4 De Soul Contributing Writer Poet, Motivational Speaker, Writer, Journalist, Actress, Emcee Public Relations Officer, Jamaican Cultural Connection, Inc. Friday Words of Wisdom Show | Fridays at 9AM EST on www.crrfm.com Website: www.jccnow.com
KUOMagazine.com 59 Official Men & Women of Kulture
KUOMagazine.com 60 Official Men & Women of Kulture
KUOMagazine.com 61 Official Men & Women of Kulture