Seven-time Festival Song winner Eric Donaldson made his first appearance as the newly minted brand ambassador for Give Back Jamaica at the organisation’s third annual Primary School Appreciation Awards a few weeks ago.

Donaldson, who is originally from St Catherine, won the Jamaica Festival Song competition in 1971 (with Cherry Oh Baby), 1977 (Sweet Jamaica), 1978 (Land of My Birth), 1984 (Proud Jamaican), 1993 (Big it Up), 1995 (Join De Line) and 1997 (Peace and Love).

At the Primary School Appreciation Awards which took place at the Lucky Valley Primary School in Bog Walk, St Catherine, Lucky Valley Primary received an award as the top honoree for its outstanding dedication to student achievement and community engagement.

St John’s Primary School and Friendship Primary were recognised as runners-up, showcasing the vibrant educational spirit across Jamaican primary schools.

The Give Back Jamaica Primary School Appreciation Award is sponsored by New Jersey-based Bold, Active, Determined Men 4 Christ (B.A.D.), a Christian men’s initiative that encourages men to embody specific characteristics in their faith and lives.

In an interview with Observer Online, Kenrick Bennett, principal of Lucky Valley Primary, said, “This award recognises not only our students’ achievements but also the tireless efforts of our teachers and the community.”

Donaldson says his role will assist the organisation’s mission to empower and inspire Jamaica’s youth.

“Joining Give Back Jamaica allows me to give back to the community that has given me so much. Education is the foundation of our future, and I’m honoured to support the next generation,” Donaldson said.

Hosted by Hopeton Brown, President of Give Back Jamaica, and Kenrick Bennett, Principal of Lucky Valley Primary, the celebration brought together students, educators and community leaders. The programme featured dynamic performances by students and showcased the artistic talents of recording artistes including IBrave.

Brown said Donaldson was chosen as the organisation’s brand ambassador because of his philanthropic efforts.

“We are thrilled to welcome Eric Donaldson as a champion for Jamaican education. His legacy and commitment to our youth inspires us all. His tireless humanitarian work was what stood out and helped in our decision to have him as our brand ambassador,” said Brown.

He explained the significance of the Give Back Jamaica Primary School Appreciation Award.

“The Give Back Jamaica Primary School Appreciation Award is an annual initiative that invites staff, students, parents, families, friends, and community members to participate by voting for their preferred primary school. The school receiving the highest number of votes is awarded 50 pairs of school shoes. Harbour View Primary was honoured in 2023, Devon Primary received the award in 2024, and Lucky Valley Primary is this year’s recipient,” said Brown.