Old Harbour diaspora to honour Lewin, Dr Blake in New York

The annual fundraising event will be held at Antun’s in Queens, New York on May 24.

Both gentlemen are bonafide sons of Old Harbour, with Lewin spending his formative years at Bodles, while Blake is a known native of Church Pen. 

Though their career paths have diverged, each has made an indelible mark in their respective fields. Today, Dr Blake is one of the most respected figures in New York’s public school system and is recognized as a trailblazer and dedicated educator.

The Old Harbour diaspora group praised him as a visionary with unwavering integrity, embodying the ideals of a truly great Jamaican. 

Dr Blake is “one who possesses an intellectual vision, enormous energy, and an unwavering integrity which exemplifies the ideals of a truly great Jamaican,” stated the Old Harbour diaspora group. 

Meanwhile, Lewin, the sole surviving founding member of Fairlane Holdings Group – parent company of Ojay Koolers and Jamaica Bedding – has contributed significantly to Old Harbour through decades of quiet philanthropy. 

“Lloyd will not showcase the things he’s doing for others; he would rather work behind the scenes to impact the lives of those who come in contact with him,” the association noted. “The unfailing support and partnership with his siblings have been invaluable… He never fails to give all honour and glory to God for his goodness towards him.”

As a registered charity in both the U.S. and Jamaica, the Old Harbour and Friends Association focuses on improving education and healthcare in its hometown while supporting charitable causes in New York. In 2002, it was named Best Jamaican Social Club/Association in New York for its philanthropic work. 

To ensure its legacy endures, the organization has established a youth arm, led by young professionals who once benefited from its initiatives. 

Former Prime Minister Bruce Golding, who hails from Old Harbour, is among some of the most distinguished Jamaicans recognised by this august body, as well as Dr Dexter B Gordon, a highly respected professor of African American history, who grew up in the fishing community of Old Harbour Bay.