KINGSTON, Jamaica – The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) will hold a gala in Miami later this year to honour brothers Paul and Lee Issa for their contributions to education and healthcare in Jamaica.

Paul and Lee, sons of the late Abe Issa, have spent decades making humanitarian and philanthropic contributions to their communities.

The AFJ gala will highlight the foundation’s most ambitious project to date- the construction of the Mary Issa Pediatric and Adolescent Health Centre in St Ann.

The upcoming AFJ gala will seek to raise critical funds for the project. The facility aims to provide essential healthcare services for children and adolescents, addressing a pressing need in the community.

Paul, who is also chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative.

“I couldn’t be more pleased that they [the AFJ] will be recognising what we have been doing- the American Friends of Jamaica is a marvellous non-profit organisation that has raised funds for many local charities over the years,” he said.

Sean Edwards, spokesperson for the foundation, highlighted its ongoing commitment to community health.

“President of the foundation Diane Pollard and a team of doctors from Connecticut Children’s Hospital will be in Jamaica from February 28 to March 14 to participate in a Neonatal Nurses Essential Training and Skills Program. This initiative is vital for enhancing healthcare in our communities,” he stated.

The impact of the Issa family’s philanthropic work has not gone unnoticed, according to a release from the Issa Trust Foundation. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Juliet Holness commended the brothers for their unwavering commitment to charitable causes.

“Lee and Paul Issa represent the spirit of generosity that characterises the Issa family and is embodied in the work of the Issa Trust Foundation. Their dedication to supporting noble Jamaican causes is commendable,” she remarked.
Paul also spoke fondly of his brother.

“I’m very happy they are honouring my brother Lee’s achievements in business in tourism, retail, and housing,” he stated.

“He has quietly accomplished a great deal over the years.” he added.

The gala will be held on April 5 .

– Horace Hines