Amb Marks to receive RNFJ’s Inaugural President’s Award

Washington DC:

Former Jamaica Ambassador to the United States and Minister of Efficiency, Innovation & Digital Transformation in the Office of the Prime Minister, Audrey Marks, is to receive the inaugural President’s Award from the Maryland-based organisation Right Now for Jamaica (RNFJ).

RNFJ President Ron McKay, said that Ambassador Marks will be presented with the award recognising her ‘outstanding service and leadership, particularly unwavering commitment to Jamaica and her instrumental role in facilitating and mobilizing relief efforts after Hurricane Melissa’. The award will be presented at its first fundraising gala to be held under the patronage of Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson on March 28 in The Royal Ballroom, Maryland.

McKay said that Ambassador Marks’ continued advocacy, influence, and action have been a powerful example of what diaspora leadership looks like when it is rooted in integrity, compassion, and national pride. In the aftermath of the hurricane, her ability to mobilise support, engage key partners, and respond with urgency has made a meaningful impact on communities across Jamaica.

He emphasised that his organisation is especially grateful for the partnership and guidance received from Ambassador Marks as they move forward with their mission to provide immediate and long-term support through healthcare and education initiatives. In particular, their commitment to assisting and adopting the Percy Junor Hospital, which sustained significant damage while continuing to serve displaced and vulnerable citizens across central Jamaica, remains one of their key priorities.

MEANINGFUL PARTNERSHIPS

In January, Ambassador Marks was among nine ambassadors worldwide who were honoured with the 2026 Golden Heart Award by the Tree of Life Foundation International at a ceremony in Florida. In May 2010, upon assuming duties at Jamaica’s Embassy in Washington, DC, she became the first woman to serve as the country’s ambassador to the United States. When she returned to the post in September 2016, she achieved another milestone, becoming the only individual ever appointed to the position under two different administrations – first under former Prime Minister, Bruce Golding, and subsequently under current Prime Minister, Dr Andrew Holness.

Over nearly a decade representing Jamaica in Washington, Ambassador Marks deepened bilateral cooperation in the critical areas of security, trade, and investment. She also championed scholarship initiatives and university exchange programmes, opening pathways for young Jamaicans to pursue higher education in American institutions.

McKay said: “The gala reflects a broader movement among diaspora leaders and strategic partners to move beyond short-term response toward sustainable recovery and renewal. By convening public and private sector stakeholders in one space, the event fosters meaningful partnerships that will drive measurable impact across the island.

Proceeds from the event will go directly towards rebuilding efforts across critical sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in Jamaica.