Maroon Queen lauds powerful women

Reggae artiste Maroon Queen was left inspired by the "raw feminine power" on display during the recent Queens Of Reggae Island Honorary Ceremonies (QORIHC) show.

"There were a lot of powerful women there with powerful stories whose contribution to the entertainment industry was finally and fittingly acknowledged. Kudos to the conceptualiser, Laurell Nurse, it was a very inspirational and touching event," she said. The QORIHC show took place at Courtleigh Auditorium in St Andrew to recognise the classes of 2022 and 2023. The inaugural event was staged in 2016.

Twenty-four women who have served in their respective fields for over 10 years were recognised for achievements in entertainment, media, and academia. Maroon Queen performed at the event doing songs, such as You Say, Black and Proud and her latest sngle, I Still Love You. She believes the show is an important event on the entertainment landscape.

"It was a monumental night for women in entertainment because the music industry has never treated them kindly. This is important for paving the way forward for the young girls coming up for their voices or their music to be heard. So this gives me more strength to continue my work of raising black awareness and consciousness," Maroon Queen said. Pamputtae, who was an awardee, also performed at the event.

Among the awardees were Althea Laing, model and lifestyle coach; Debbie Bissoon, media personality; Yasmine Peru, entertainment journalist; Sharon Schroeter, TV producer; Tifa, dancehall artiste; Gem Myers, singer; Professor Donna P Hope, editor and academic; Sher Luxury Doll, dancer and entrepreneur; Yendi Phillipps, public figure; and Brick & Lace, pop artistes/songwriters.