It was an evening defined by milestone reflections and a profound sense of purpose. On Saturday, February 28, Dr Karrian Hepburn Malcolm, National Commercial Bank’s head of wealth management, marked her 45th birthday in style at the ROK Hotel in downtown Kingston.

The ROKstone Pool Bar and Grill provided the perfect backdrop as loved ones and well-wishers acknowledged Hepburn Malcolm’s milestone. The celebrations also served as the unveiling of her latest ventures: Her memoir Discovering Purpose, the launch of the Dr Karrian Hepburn Malcolm Foundation, and the début of her single Purpose.

More than just an autobiography, Discovering Purpose provides a candid reflection on her path to success and the life lessons that shaped her. In tandem, her new foundation aims to empower the next generation through mentorship and essential resources, while also championing the fight against cancer.

Leading the proceedings, master of ceremonies Daniele Clarke shared an excerpt that captured the essence of Hepburn Malcolm’s inspiration for writing Discovering Purpose.

Combining an introduction of the guest of honour with a toast, the evening then turned to Hepburn Malcolm’s husband, Othniel. Joined on stage by their son, Zylan, Malcolm spoke warmly of his wife’s generosity in establishing the new foundation and the steadfast determination that has underpinned her professional success.

“What I really admire most about her is that she didn’t wait for the perfect moment. She created it. She wrote the book, she started the foundation and she recorded her song. Cheers to her and all the beautiful things that God has planned for you,” Malcolm toasted.

When she took to the podium, Hepburn Malcolm expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the many guests in attendance. She was quick to emphasise that the evening was more than a personal milestone; it was a testament to how her faith continues to shape her commitment to serving others.

“The turnout is overwhelming in a very good way. So for you to have come here it really means a lot to me, and I do not take it for granted. This night is not meant to be about me. It’s meant to be about God and my relationship with Him and allowing Him to use me as a vessel for good,” Hepburn Malcolm asserted.

That spirit of gratitude was beautifully captured when she led a soulful rendition of CeCe Winans’ Goodness of God during her remarks. After reflecting on the inspiration behind both her foundation and her memoir, Hepburn Malcolm captivated her guests with a soulful rendition of her single Purpose,
which was met with lusty applause.

Taking the stage to share the book’s origin story, publisher Sashell Daniel highlighted Hepburn Malcolm’s work ethic, noting the memoir was written in only two weeks. Daniel lauded her for the focus and drive shown since their initial meeting in November to ensure the book was ready for its February launch.

“From a publisher’s point of view, you are, like, no, it’s not possible. We normally take six or seven months to produce a book. But I was, like, OK, because I felt that this was a Kairos moment,” Daniel said. “We did the interviews in two weeks, got the manuscript done in another two weeks and she said ‘I want to use Christmas to review the manuscript and send it back to you’. And so she did!”

Beyond the praise, Daniel used the moment to urge guests to surround themselves with a circle of support that stands firmly behind their personal and professional aspirations.

“I just want to celebrate Dr Hepburn Malcolm for stepping into the moment. I would like to encourage you tonight that when you are birthing what God has placed on the inside of you, who stands with you matters. Who helps you matters,” Daniel said.

The floor then opened to those closest to Hepburn Malcolm. Long-time friend Kadean Bruce Miller joined cousins Stacian Bennett and Nickeisha Powe in sharing toasts and reflections in her honour.

“I want to thank you for 27 years of true, authentic friendship. We have dried each others tears through the rough times and have celebrated each other’s wins during the good times. As you carry on this journey of life, I pray the Lord will continue to bless you and keep you and order your steps.” Bruce Miller said.

“This journey of Karrian’s is not surprising at all. She has always been driven, very aggressive in a good way, and always striving for more. Even though this seems like a milestone, this is just the beginning of many more things to come,” Bennett said.

“What you see here is someone who has evolved over the years, someone who has embraced what life has presented to her and her perspective. It has not been the easiest journey but Karrian is very determined, and that determination was there even as a young child,” Powe recounted.

After the toasts, Hepburn Malcolm was serenaded by her guests with a rendition of The Happy Birthday Song as she and her husband cut a three-tiered vanilla cake from Sugabuzz Desserts. The celebrations reached a perfect conclusion as DJ Ranse maintained the momentum with a selection of the latest hits, while guests availed themselves of the opportunity to have their books signed.

Sharing the podium to deliver birthday toasts were cousins Stacian Bennett (left) and Nickeisha Powe.Karl Mclarty

Husband Othniel Malcolm and son Zylan took to the stage to share a birthday tribute to Karrian. Karl Mclarty

Dr Karrian Hepburn Malcolm showcased her range as she performed her single Purpose.Karl Mclarty

Joining in the celebrations for Hepburn Malcolm were her uncle, Mona Heights Primary School Principal Alex Hepburn and his registered nurse wife Talietha.Karl Mclarty