The event, hosted under the banner “Hope for Jamaica,” was more than just a concert — it was a cultural homecoming and a rallying cry for unity and recovery following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
Singer Tasha T
From reggae and gospel to spoken word, the performances celebrated the soul of Jamaican identity — its rhythm, resilience, and radiance. Every beat carried a message of hope, and the crowd responded with unmatched enthusiasm. Almost everyone came dressed in the bold black, green, and gold of Jamaica’s flag, and every mention of “Jamaica” from the stage drew thunderous cheers.
Among the nearly 1,000 attendees were several dignitaries: Her Excellency Marsha Coore-Lobban, Jamaica’s High Commissioner to Canada; Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow; Consul General Kurt Davis; Hon. Charmaine Williams, MP; MPP Tom Rakocevic; and King Nana Yaw Osam I of Ghana.
Dr. Sylvanus Thompson, Hope For Jamaica Disaster Relief Coordinator
According to Dr. Silvanus Thompson, Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Member and Hope for Jamaica Disaster Relief Coordinator, the event was the result of remarkable foresight and mobilization.
“When reports showed that Hurricane Melissa had reached Category 5 status, we knew Jamaica would face severe devastation,” Dr. Thompson said. “Two days before the hurricane made landfall, we assembled the Hope for Jamaica team and started planning.”
Within a week, flyers, radio promos, and online campaigns sparked a wave of support. On Thursday, November 6, the community turned up in droves — a living testament to the strength of the Jamaican spirit abroad.
Mayor of Toronto Olivia Chow
While Jamaica was the heart of the evening, Mayor Olivia Chow became its unexpected pulse. Her entrance caused an eruption of excitement as a reggae beat dropped and she made her way to the stage, moving and chanting with the ease of a seasoned dancehall performer. The crowd surged forward, phones in hand, capturing the unforgettable moment when Toronto’s mayor celebrated Jamaican culture — DJ-style.
The night was more than an event — it was a symbol of shared humanity and the enduring power of community. The Jamaican Canadian Association, entertainers, businesses, politicians, unions, media, and everyday citizens stood shoulder to shoulder, proving that the spirit of “One Love” is alive and thriving in the GTA.
As Dr. Thompson summed it up: “This was Jamaica’s night — but it was also Toronto’s moment to show love in action.”