Hundreds of community members from across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) gathered at the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) in Toronto on Thursday, July 18, to show their support for the Hurricane Beryl relief benefit concert. The event, a testament to the spirit of solidarity and community support, featured some of Canada’s premier reggae and dancehall artists, who delivered top-class performances to an enthusiastic crowd.
For five hours, the JCA was filled with the sounds of reggae and dancehall as attendees sang and danced along. The lineup boasted an impressive array of talent, including JUNO winners Nana Mclean, Exco Levi, Kirk Diamond, and Kairo Mclean. Joining them were top stars like Com4th, Tonya P, Tiffanie Malvo, Blk Orchid, Eyesus, Steve Knight, Tréson, Micheal St George, Zackious Cooper, and Tony Anthony, all of whom volunteered their time for this worthy cause.
The concert kicked off with the singing of the Canadian anthem by Keisha Wright and Jamaican national anthem by the Consul General Kurt Davis and Consul Younna Magalhaes, setting a tone of unity and respect. This was followed by speeches, prayers, and a heartfelt recorded message from the Jamaica High Commissioner to Canada, Mrs. Marsha Coore-Lobban, who emphasized the importance of community support in times of crisis.
Hosts Danae Peart and Chris Hayles masterfully guided the evening, ensuring a smooth flow of performances and activities. Music for the event was provided by DJ Corey and Joshua Lucas, whose selections kept the energy high and the crowd engaged.
In addition to the stellar musical performances, the concert featured a variety of food, snacks, and drinks donated by several local restaurants. These generous contributions ensured that attendees were well-fed and added a festive atmosphere to the event. The support didn’t stop there; other companies donated items that were raffled and auctioned, further aiding the fundraising efforts.
The Hurricane Beryl relief benefit concert at the JCA was more than just an evening of entertainment; it was a powerful demonstration of community spirit and generosity. All funds made from the effort will be donated to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. The funds will go a long way in supporting those affected by the hurricane, and the event itself stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when people unite for a common cause. Together we can make a difference.