Ms Diane Ellis

The experience as guest editor has been a chance of a lifetime and one for which I will always be grateful. The Gleaner's team of reporters, photographers, editors and sub-editors is dedicated, committed and work to exacting standards. To have had the opportunity to be exposed to that process was awesome.

Our experience underscored the importance of the media's role as change agents. The Gleaner reporters responded favourably and enthusiastically to our suggested topics and their work has generated constructive dialogue, opinion and ideas from other media and members of the public, and also served to accelerate the peace movement in communities.

The result affirms that peace in Jamaica can be achieved with the support of the media and other agencies whose involvement is critical in fostering a change in attitudes and behaviour.

Many persons have responded positively to the edition and by extension, the work of the Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA). A neighbour, who is a qualified counsellor, has even volunteered to expand her work in schools as a result of the publication.

We are encouraged by The Gleaner's support and trust that this will continue as the VPA and other organisations work to rid Jamaica of violence.

Diane Ellis

Communication adviser