ST JAMES, Jamaica — Day one of Elevated Talk, the spiritual development forum now on at Montego Bay Convention Centre, came to a premature end today when featured speaker Iyanla Vanzant fell ill.

Vanzant, an acclaimed motivational speaker, indicated when she came on stage that she was suffering from a stomach bug. She made light of it, cheered on by adoring patrons, but about 40 minutes into her scheduled two-hour set she left the stage.

She returned shortly after to advise patrons that she was unable to continue and invited them to tomorrow’s session at which point she intends to continue her presentation.

Vanzant, 62, had earlier spoken about what life teaches, being in touch with self, and the restrictions of the human experience.

The morning session of Elevated Talk featured American New Thought Minister Michael Beckwith and his wife Rickie Byars-Beckwith. Management consultant Dr Nsombi Jaja opened the afternoon session, followed by forum conceptualiser Patricia “Ricia” Leslie.

The two-day event closes tomorrow with  Ambassador Audrey Marks.