Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter

Employees of Nicholson Phillips (from left) Kerry-Ann Wilson, Sherise Gayle and Kerriann Mitchell have every reason to smile as their company took home the Entrepreneur Award for Small Business. --photos by Winston Sill / Freelance Photographer

The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce honoured its best on Thursday night at its 25th annual dinner and awards function held at the Hilton Kingston hotel.

With an MC in Paul Bitter who took no prisoners with his comedic salvos, and Wayne Armand and Richie McDonald providing music par excellence, there was no paucity of entertainment. The duo performed some well-loved favourites.

Dynamic speaker

For such an august occasion, an even more dynamic speaker epitomising excellence was required. Look no further than Lowell Hawthorne, president and CEO of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill. The man who has transformed the company into the largest Caribbean franchiser and producer of Caribbean baked products in the United States, lauded the JCC for its tremendous job in developing local businesses. He briefly described how the company had carved out a niche for itself, not only in the ethnic market, but in the mainstream fast food market.

"We are now giving the American favourite burger arun for its money," he said to loud applause. He would later give a sneak peek to the company's plans which include constructing kiosks in universities, hospitals and major highway rest stops. He really wowed the audience when he talked about the recently launched GK TV which will keep Jamaicans in the Diaspora abreast of what's happening on the rock. He had nothing but praise and hope for his island home.

"Heartened"

"I am indeed heartened by our achievements but I believe with all fervency that there is much more to be done. The Jamaica that was envisioned by our forefathers has begun to take shape," he said. He implored the local businesses to get involved in the affairs of the community, while calling for unity among Jamaicans everywhere.

Guests included David and Tina Matalon, Gregory and Michelle Mayne, Karen Turner, Patrick Gillings, Omar and Lezanne Azan, Camille Facey, Tony Ray, Tarun and Catherine Handa, Trudy Deans, Charles and Lisa Johnston, Kevin Bourke, Debra Lopez, Noel and Jackie DaCosta, Anthony Chang, Marjorie Kennedy, David Hall and Klao Lewis.