MONTEGO BAY, St James – FOR Carmelita McCallum August 6, 2023 turned out to be the best birthday ever. That’s the day she received one of St James’ highest honours, the Mayor’s Special Award, which has become a highly anticipated part of Independence Day celebrations in Montego Bay.

The 59-year-old was presented with the coveted award in recognition of the excellent work she has been doing in her community of Hendon, Glendevon, over the years.

“It is wonderful and I’m extremely happy. It’s the best present on my birthday,” an obviously elated McCallum told the Jamaica Observer.

Decked out in the black, green and gold colours of Jamaica’s national flag, she beamed with pride as she collected her plaque from deputy mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon.

While McCallum said she “never expected” the award, those who have worked alongside her or benefited from her good deeds were not surprised.

The modest crowd that turned out for Sunday’s ceremony heard how the cookshop operator, dubbed the mother of her community, graciously provided meals and back-to-school supplies for children in her neighbourhood.

She’s now busy preparing to help yet another batch of students.

“Yes I will try to give the back-to-school supplies; [I’m] currently working on the sponsorship for the things I want to donate,” McCallum told Observer West.

While her worthy cause has received support from sponsors over the years, she has for the most part used her own resources to provide needy students with lunch money and other forms of assistance. Also, relatives have joined her in improving the aesthetics of their community by clearing the roads of overgrown bushes and shrubs.

“My husband will do the cutting and we do the raking,” McCallum explained.

McCallum’s relatives were on hand for Sunday’s joyful ceremony, just as they have been while she toiled to make their community better.

“Today is her birthday and I feel so good to see them award her for her good work in Glendevon – and we give thanks and praise for what she has achieved,” said her elated sister, Paulette Lewis. She noted that she has been among those who have worked alongside McCallum as she cleaned up the roadsides.

Also among those bursting with pride was Nakesia Stephenson.

“I’m lost for words. She is a great mom and I just want to say I’m so proud of her. I just want her to keep it up and continue being the good person that she is,” she said.

McCallum was one of 15 individuals who received the Spirit of Independence and the Mayor’s Special Award for their contribution in areas including community service, media, education, and national security.

Among those lauded was sporting sensation Kemba Nelson who was recognised for her contribution to track and field. However, the former Mount Alvernia High School student was unable to attend the ceremony because of commitments related to the upcoming World Championships in Budapest. Her mother Sandra Nelson accepted the award on her behalf.