Kingston, Jamaica: – LASCO’s commitment to recognising and empowering Jamaica’s professionals extends far beyond its annual awards Nurse and Nursing Student of the Year awards. Through a comprehensive programme of mentorship, professional development, and community engagement, LASCO ensures that honourees continue to make a lasting impact long after the ceremonial spotlight fades.
For over two decades, LASCO through the LASCO Chin Foundation, in partnership with the Nurses Association of Jamaica (NAJ), the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), and the Ministry of Education and Youth, has celebrated excellence in healthcare, law enforcement, and education. The LASCO Nurse of the Year, Nursing Student of the Year, Police of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Teacher of the Year, and Principal of the Year are not just titles of prestige; they come with year-long opportunities designed to support career growth and amplify the voices of these professionals.
Each year’s winners receive a platform that includes leadership training, public speaking engagements, and advocacy roles within their respective sectors. In addition, LASCO facilitates networking opportunities with industry leaders and policymakers, ensuring that these outstanding professionals can influence positive change. The recognition programme also extends into community initiatives, with past winners leading outreach efforts, mentorship programmes, and professional development workshops. Whether through health fairs, educational forums, or crime prevention initiatives, LASCO awardees are empowered to drive national progress beyond their workplaces.
A day at the factory
LASCO recently hosted an engaging and insightful tour at its White Marl, St. Catherine factory facilities, welcoming an esteemed cohort from the 2024-2025 Nurse and Nursing Student of the Year, Police of the Year, and Teacher, TVET Teacher and Principal of the Year recognition programmes. The tour provided an exclusive look at LASCO’s operations, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence and community development. Attendees gained valuable knowledge of the brand’s dedication to quality and efficiency, making for an enriching experience that highlighted LASCO’s continued impact across various sectors.
The day kickstarted with a look into the Dry Blend (Powders) Plant where long-serving team member Daniel Strachan, Plant Manager, led the tour, explaining the need for precision in combining the raw materials that make the beloved LASCO Food Drink to adding the final seal of excellence to the packages. Following, the group visited the Liquid Plant, a tour led by Cleverick Doughorty, Liquid Plant Manager, who provided insightful information on quality assurance and safety on the job. The day ended with a presentation by Danielle Cunningham, Corporate Communications Manager at LASCO, where participants gained more insight into the history and products. The day concluded with the breaking of bread, allowing for valuable conversations and connections among the participants, joined by John De Silva, Managing Director, LASCO Distributors Limited and Lisa chin-Watts, Deputy General Manager, LASCO Manufacturing Limited.
Lisa Chin-Watts, General Manager at LASCO Manufacturing Limited expressed that, “the factory tour is particularly special as it is an opportunity to share in the spirit of excellence that unites the LASCO Ambassadors with the valuable staff at our production facilities and of the foundation.”
“Whether in healthcare, law enforcement, or education, each of the awardees from the recognition programmes have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving Jamaica through community development and that aligns with LASCO. I rest assured that they all left understanding our company’s purpose beyond the machinery, certifications, and production lines – and that is what truly makes LASCO exceptional,” Chin-Watts added.
Sustaining a Legacy of Excellence
LASCO Chin Foundation (LCF) representatives emphasised their goal to foster lifelong partnerships and a lasting pipeline of exemplary professionals who not only excel in their fields but also drive innovation and advocacy within their sectors. By continually investing in professional development, the foundation remains steadfast in its mission to honouring and uplifting Jamaica’s dedicated public servants. Professor Rosalea Hamilton, CEO of LCF reinforced this, stating, “The idea that a good teacher is also a good student holds true for all nation builders. At LCF we are constantly seeking knowledge to better guide beneficiaries. The factory tour was a valuable opportunity to engage with the awardees and gain insight into their outreach programmes and challenges.”
With the next award cycle on the horizon, LASCO looks forward to welcoming another cohort of exceptional nurses, law enforcement officers, and educators, into its legacy of excellence, ensuring that the impact of the programme resonates throughout Jamaica for years to come.
