Concert with a cause - Shaggy, Lila Ike for star-studded benefit show

Promotional Consultant Sean 'Contractor' Edwards expressed optimism about the Issa Trust Foundation's concert will be a resounding success.

The concert, set for May 17 at the Couples San Souci Resort in St Mary, will feature Grammy-winning superstar Shaggy and powerhouse singer and songwriter, Lila Ike.

"Shaggy's rise as a top Jamaican reggae artiste and his global success as a Grammy winner makes him a perfect fit for this event. We're confident fans will flock to the San Souci venue to see him perform live," Contractor said.

The benefit show, dubbed For the Children, aims to raise funds to bolster Jamaica's health infrastructure. In previous years, the concert has drawn international stars such as Air Supply and Michael Bolton, as well as homegrown talents like Third World, Tarrus Riley, Tessanne Chin and Koffee.

"We are predicting another sold-out show. Shaggy's popularity is undeniable, and I believe this concert will be a memorable experience for both fans and supporters of our cause," Contractor said.

This year's staging will also commemorate the Issa Trust Foundation's 20th anniversary. Proceeds will go toward the construction of the Mary Issa Paediatric and Adolescent Health Centre in Ocho Rios, St Ann.

"The upcoming Shaggy concert promises to be an unforgettable night, one that underscores the foundation's commitment to health and hope for Jamaica's future," Contractor said.

Chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation, Paul Issa, expressed his confidence that this year's concert will be another resounding success.

"We are expecting another sold-out show, if not better, and the real winners will be our healthcare system and, by extension, the Jamaican people," said Issa.

"This event is about more than entertainment; it's about making a tangible difference. The Mary Issa Health Clinic, which we hope to complete on schedule, will provide essential medical services to the residents of Runaway Bay and surrounding areas."

Paul Issa, chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation, also voiced his optimism about the event's impact.

Diane Pollard, president of the Issa Trust Foundation, is inviting Jamaicans "to join us for a night of world-class entertainment and community spirit, knowing that their support will translate into healthier lives for many Jamaicans".

"Every ticket sold, every dollar raised, brings us closer to our goal of enhancing healthcare facilities and services across Jamaica," Pollard said.