KINGSTON, Jamaica – Twelve remarkable individuals who have significantly shaped Jamaica’s agricultural landscape were recently honoured with the Agriculturalist Impact Awards 2023.

In a ceremony held on December 14 at the Medallion Hall Hotel on 53 Hope Road, Kingston, the awardees were honoured for their enduring contributions to agriculture, showcasing excellence in innovation, leadership, and professionalism over several decades.

Under the patronage of the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, Floyd Green, the awards ceremony celebrated the following distinguished recipients: Agriculturalist Winston Thomas; Agricultural Engineer Richard Powell; Agriculturalist Byron Henry; Agronomist specialising in Plant Protection Marina Young; Agricultural Engineer Joseph Gyles; Agrochemical Manager Graham Dunkley; Animal Health Technician Delroy Manya; Horticulturist Burrell Scarlett; Cane Farmer Bynard Bennett; Agronomist Reginal Burgess; Drip Irrigation Technologist Shalom Hodara and Veterinarian Clover Mattocks.

Minister Green, in his commendations, described the awardees as among the best and brightest in the agricultural community. He emphasised their pivotal role in mentoring young farmers and aspiring individuals in the field, encouraging them to pursue careers or businesses in farming.

“The Agriculturalist Impact Awards are a testament to the outstanding contributions made by these individuals in shaping our agricultural landscape,” Minister Green stated, applauding the awardees for their commitment to excellence.

At the same time, the publisher of The Agriculturalist Newspaper, Patrick Maitland highlighted the significance of these awards in reshaping the narrative surrounding the often-overlooked heroes within the farming industry. He emphasised the awards’ role in acknowledging the unwavering dedication of farmers, which frequently goes unnoticed.

“Agriculture is the cornerstone of Jamaican society and The Agriculturalist Impact Awards seeks to rectify the oversight by spotlighting these unsung heroes who play a crucial role in sustaining our nation,” Maitland added.

The awards ceremony, sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining and the Jamaica Dairy Development Board, underscored these organisations’ invaluable support in recognising the awardees’ outstanding contributions.

Hosted by the AgriLife Foundation, publisher of The Agriculturalist, the Agriculturalist Impact Awards 2023, brought together the agricultural community to celebrate excellence, foster innovation, and inspire future generations to continue the legacy of sustainable farming in Jamaica.