The Jamaican High Commissioner, His Excellency Alexander Williams, was warmly welcomed to Watford on Monday 31 March, by Watford Borough Council’s Chairwoman Cllr Dawn Allen-Williamson.
The official visit was to celebrate Cllr Dawn Allen-Williamson's history-making as the First Black Person in history to hold this position, and the strong connections between Jamaica and the town.
During the visit, the High Commissioner met with representatives and organisations with connections to Jamaica to celebrate their contributions to the community and reaffirm the commitment to strengthening these cultural and social ties.
Representatives included:
- Luther Blissett OBE DL – Former Watford FC great, trailblazing England footballer and Freeman of the Borough who is a passionate advocate for diversity and representing his Majesty King Charles III.
- Clive Saunders OBE – Representing the Watford African Caribbean Association (WACA), which has been instrumental in supporting the African and Caribbean community in the area through education, cultural events, and advocacy.
- George Ruddock – Managing Editor of The Jamaican Gleaner, the longest-running newspaper in the Western Hemisphere, which continues to be a key voice in Caribbean affairs.
- Alecia Esson – Consort to the Chairwoman and founder of NxSteps Group Ltd, an early-stage company dedicated to empowering people with chronic gait-related conditions and lower limb injuries using wearable technology and AI.
Cllr Allen-Williamson said:
“It was a pleasure to welcome the Jamaican High Commissioner to Watford. Being of Jamaican descent and the first black Chairwoman for WBC, I was especially proud to host the High Commissioner. This visit was a great opportunity to celebrate the heritage and important contributions of the Jamaican and Caribbean community here in Watford.”
The High Commissioner expressed appreciation for the warm welcome, saying:
“I am delighted to have had the opportunity to visit Watford and engage with the Chairwoman of Watford Borough Council, Councillor Dawn Allen-Williamson. It is particularly significant and inspiring that she is not only Jamaican-born but also the first Black woman to hold this distinguished position—a testament to her groundbreaking leadership and remarkable contributions.”
“Our discussions underscored the enduring bonds between Jamaica and the United Kingdom, emphasising our shared commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and mutual respect. I was particularly interested in the initiatives underway in Watford aimed at fostering community development and enhancing social cohesion.”
“I eagerly look forward to strengthening the collaboration between Jamaica and Watford, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the warm hospitality and the productive exchange of ideas during this visit.”
The visit also featured a flag-raising ceremony, where the Jamaican flag was proudly hosted outside the council offices by puplis of Beechfield School.
