THE enticement of job opportunities often leads many young professionals to a life overseas but for entrepreneur Danielle Lowe, the pull of her Jamaican roots and a deep commitment to her family’s legacy proved stronger.

After building a successful career in Canada, Lowe made an unexpected decision to return to her hometown of St Ann’s Bay in 2021, with a vision to not only revitalise the family business but also spark tourism and help contribute to community development in the area.

What began as a brief three-month visit soon evolved into a life-altering choice. Lowe chose to stay in Jamaica and join forces with her father, Edwin, in managing and expanding their family business, In Dee Goes Sports Bar and Lounge, popularly known as Edwin Bar.

Inspired by the desire to create a unique space for the community, Lowe took on the challenge of renovating the upstairs area, transforming it into a lounge.

This lounge was designed to offer something special — a place where customers can relax, bring a date, or enjoy drinks and finger food with friends.

The creation of the lounge represents not just an investment in the family business but also a commitment to the community, offering a sophisticated and welcoming environment that sets it apart from the bustling sports bar downstairs.

Lowe’s father, a resident of St Ann’s Bay for more than 30 years, had developed the bar into a lively community hub where locals gather before and after work, drawn by its inviting atmosphere.

With features like sleek, flat-screen televisions; a pool table; and gaming machines, the bar is a bustling focal point in the town. The addition of the lounge, with its air-conditioned comfort and occasional event rentals for video and photo shoots, introduces another layer to the bar’s appeal, offering a more intimate and upscale experience for their customers.

Her return to Jamaica was not just about stepping into her father’s shoes — it was about infusing the business with fresh energy and ideas.

Lowe brought back with her a passion for digital marketing and branding, skills she honed through a nanodegree in digital marketing during her time in Canada.

But beyond the business, her goal is to make a meaningful impact on the community she loves.

Coming back to St Ann’s Bay was more than just a move; it was a mission.

“My dad is the only one left in Jamaica of his siblings — they all migrated decades ago — and I am truly following in his footsteps as all my siblings are abroad. We are both Canadian citizens, and being here is a choice.

“It’s about believing in the opportunities here — in what his parents and family have started — and honouring the family legacy. I wanted to take everything I had learned and use it to breathe new life into our family business and uplift the community that I grew up in,” said Lowe.

“Jamaica holds a very special place in my heart. Edwin Bar is a symbol of our resilience and togetherness, and I’m committed to making it a cornerstone of our town’s future, hoping and working towards a better future for the town,” added Lowe.

She also sees the sports bar as a way for travellers to experience the authentic Jamaica she knows and loves.

Her passion for tourism is matched by her vision for St Ann’s Bay, a town which she believes has the potential to be a vibrant tourism spot.

She envisions promoting local markets, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences that celebrate the town’s rich history and natural beauty.

Lowe has returned home with the hope that the locals will embrace her and the new life she is working to infuse into the bar and the community.

People in the community already regard Edwin Bar as a beloved fixture, a place where familiar faces gather to share drinks and create lasting memories, but Lowe has also introduced new entertainment options, including Karaoke Nights, Old Hits sessions, and Ladies’ Night — all of which, she said, have been met with enthusiastic support.

Looking ahead, Lowe has big plans for the bar and lounge.

She dreams of making Edwin Bar a must-see attraction, blending the traditional vibe of a local rum bar with elevated service, design, and branding.

Additionally, Lowe is committed to implementing a paid work training programme for students, ensuring that the business remains a vibrant and welcoming space for all.

According to Lowe, her return to Jamaica has not been without its challenges but she remains undeterred, driven by her desire to see St Ann’s Bay thrive.

She hopes her efforts will inspire others with roots in Jamaica to consider investing in their communities, bringing fresh ideas and energy to the table.

Danielle Lowe (left) talks with employees of In Dee Goes Sports Bar and Lounge (from second left) Sharion Forbes, Keke Williams , Annakay Radcliffe, and the bar’s founder Edwin Lowe.