JAMAICAN media personality, author, and communications consultant Amashika Lorne has been appointed as brand ambassador for the upcoming Image – The International Music Festival scheduled to take place on Easter Sunday, March 31, in Portland.

Lorne, more recently known as Aunty Ama due to her cultural workshops, brings a wealth of experience and passion for Jamaica’s rich musical heritage. In a recent interview she shared her connection to music.

“Growing up, my parents exposed me to a range of artistes, fostering an appreciation for the diverse sounds that make up our musical landscape. This foundation was built upon when I started singing in the choir and playing instruments in prep school, and then when I started attending summer school at Edna Manley [College] of [the] Visual and Performing Arts annually,” she said.

“I’m grateful for the type of exposure I’ve had through my parents, my schooling, and travels around the world. This is something that I enjoy sharing with others, especially with younger Jamaicans.“

In 2021 and 2022 Lorne’s Create With Aunty Ama workshops formed part of the official Reggae Month calendar as she and special guests educated children about Jamaican music — specifically song lyrics, instruments, the various genres Jamaicans have given to the world, and our icons.

When asked about her favourite Jamaican artistes or music influencers the 33-year-old, who celebrated her birthday one day after the late reggae icon Bob Marley, expressed her eclectic taste that ranges from Bob Marley and the Wailers, Beres Hammond and Dennis Brown to contemporary stars like Vybz Kartel, Masicka, and J Capri.

“My dancehall will never stall, but there are times when a different tempo and pace is required based on the environment and mood that I’m in,” she laughed.

As an ambassador for Image – The International Music Festival, Lorne anticipates a well-organised festival and is “looking forward to the warmth of the people of Portland”.

She described the parish as a gem, a place to relax, reflect, and go inward.

Image – The International Music Festival promises to be a memorable addition to Jamaica’s event calendar, and Lorne’s role as ambassador ensures an unforgettable experience for festival-goers as she will be touring the parish and showcasing other activities and eco-tourism attractions that visitors can include as they plan their Easter-weekend festivities.