Fusion reggae artiste Stacey Mirander thoroughly enjoyed her role as a guest speaker during a distinguished Easter Brunch in honour of the cohort of first form students at Clarendon College, her alma mater.

The event featured beautifully presented dining for the first-formers, refined décor, and a delightful selection of desserts. The students were dressed in their finest attire to reflect the pomp and elegance of the occasion.

Mirander performed two of her original compositions, People Don’t Care and Have A Little Faith, both of which conveyed themes of resilience, self-belief, and purpose.

She further energised the audience with a spontaneous rendition of Three Little Birds by Bob Marley, performed in collaboration with the Clarendon College school band, a group of talented young student-musicians.

For Mirander, the visit inspired a wave of nostalgia.

“It was like I never left, it made me remember the first time I walked up to that school and went to Stuart Hall, remember how big it was and tiny I felt, surrounded by students I didn’t know. I didn’t know what to expect, and i saw that same first look on the faces of first formers, just shy, pensive, not talkative….it just brought me back to that time,” she reminisced.

A proud graduate of Clarendon College, Mirander has remained actively engaged with the school community, consistently supporting initiatives such as Teacher Appreciation Day and the annual Back-to-School Treat. Her continued involvement reflects a strong commitment to mentorship and community development.

“I first got them at ease, I broke the ice, asked how they were doing, and they started to smile, then they started to interact more, then I began to perform. There was a sweet breeze blowing through the venue, and it was a nice vibe, very easy, I was happy to be there to be doing that, my first performance in Jamaica,” she said.

Distinguished guests included alumna Dr Melissa Marballie of The Family Wound Care, who contributed prizes for student activities. Dr Joseph Wilson, a noted philanthropist recognized for his ongoing contributions to community advancement, was also present.

Mirander expressed sincere appreciation to David Wilson, Principal of Clarendon College. She also thanked Shirleen Jackson, Wenbert Thomas (music teacher), the school band, musicians, and the student body for their enthusiastic participation and support in making the event a resounding success.

“Ms Jackson organised that event so that the students could get a morale boost and see that ‘life isn’t so hard’. It was a gesture to give the students something to look forward to in the future. They got to dress up, there were some students who made their own outfits, very creative…by all indications, the students really enjoyed the event,” she said.

Mirander praised her alma mater’s commitment to fostering holistic student development through meaningful engagements that inspire excellence, creativity, and community spirit.

“We need more events like these,” she observed.