Maurice Facey (left), past chairman Pan Caribbean Financial Services, greets Vernal and Frances Angus, parents of Danielle Angus (second left), who was awarded the Maurice Facey Pan Caribbean Scholarship during a breakfast held at Life of Jamaica on Thursday, November 23. Danielle is currently a student at the University of the West Indies and will use the funds to complete her tertiary education. - photo by Kamal Bankay

Hollywood movie director, Stan Lathan, and civil rights leader, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., are headliners of a host of guests expected to be at Upliftment Jamaica's gala tomorrow night in St. Thomas.

The organisation, based in the Whitehorses community, creates, supports and provides outstanding opportunities through health, education, entrepreneurship and sports to the people of the parish.

The gala in its sixth year, will be held at the old Goodyear factory in Morant Bay. The primary aim of the gala is to recognise those who have contributed to nation-building and the growth of the organisation.

The prestigious event will have broadcaster Fae Ellington as master of ceremonies.

Honours

Several persons will be honoured at the gala for their outstanding work within various sectors. Vincent HoSang, owner of Caribbean Food Delights in the United States of America; Professor Rex Nettleford; Clifton Bailey a.k.a. Capleton, entertainer; and, Mr. Lathan are among the awardees.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller will deliver the keynote address.

Russell Simmons, whose company, Rush Communications, has offered tremendous contributions and support to the community-based organisation, will be present at the gala, after his absence at last year's event.

Other expected guests are Musiq Soul Child, entertainer; Fonzworth Bently; Sean 'P. Diddy' Combs Butler; Bernard Hopkins, world boxing champ; and Tim Hardaway, former basketball star.

Upliftment is dedicated to reaching out and raising awareness, educating and inspiring people to create an empowering future for themselves, their environment and their homeland.

Tickets cost $6,000 single, $11,000 for couple and $60,000 for a corporate table of 10 seats.

Tickets may be purchased from Upliftment office in Whitehorses.