Yvonne Wilks-O'Grady has been included in the prestigious King's New Year Honour List 2024, receiving the Order of The British Empire (OBE) for her outstanding and extensive contributions to the fields of media, publishing, and charity. This well-deserved recognition acknowledges her remarkable impact on the media landscape in the United Kingdom and Jamaica.
Ms. Wilks-O'Grady has been a trailblazer in the media industry, leaving an indelible mark on both sides of the Atlantic. Her influence is felt across a variety of renowned publications, including Root Magazine, Voice Newspaper, The Weekly Journal, Pride Magazine, Readers Digest, TV Guide, New Woman Magazine, and Weekly Gleaner. Her dedication to excellence and unwavering commitment to promoting diverse voices have significantly enriched the landscape of ethnic media.
Returning to Jamaica in 1998, Yvonne Wilks-O'Grady played a pivotal role in the transformation of Radio Jamaica into the RJR Communications Group, and the relaunch of JBC/Super Supreme TV as Television Jamaica. Her leadership and strategic insights have left an enduring legacy in the media industry of both countries.
In addition to her achievements in media, Ms. Wilks-O'Grady has made contributions to charitable causes. Notably, her influence extends to the Genesis Academy, a school for children and young adults with disabilities and special needs. Her personal experiences, particularly as a parent to her daughter Savanna Wilks, who is on the extreme spectrum of autism, have been a driving force behind her dedication to supporting individuals with special needs.
The Jamaican diaspora community stands united in celebrating Yvonne Wilks-O'Grady's well-deserved recognition with the Order of The British Empire. Her contributions have not only elevated the representation of Jamaican heritage in the media but have also made a tangible and positive impact on society.
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