Reggae In The Fields
Saturday April 11th, 2026 with Junior Smith
Simulcast from The Jamaican High Commission, Ottawa
Special: 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference coming up June 14-18 2026, the focus ion "Re-building a More Climate-Resilient Jamaica"
Simulcast from The Jamaican High Commission, Ottawa
Special: 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference coming up June 14-18 2026, the focus ion "Re-building a More Climate-Resilient Jamaica"
Reggae in the Fields (www.ckcufm.com). Canada's longest running Reggae program on CKCU FM 93.1. 3:00-5:30 pm Eastern. Since 1976. Listen to the podcast by 6:00 pm
https://cod.ckcufm.com/programs/132/74962.html
| The Good Word Rev. Jacob Afolabi - Spoken Word |
| Welcome to the program—and today, we bring you a special broadcast that bridges past, present, and future… across borders, across generations, and across the global Jamaican family.
This year marks the 11th staging of Jamaica’s Diaspora Conference, a gathering that continues to unite Jamaicans from around the world under one shared vision—connection, collaboration, and nation-building. It’s a space where ideas take shape, partnerships are formed, and the voice of the diaspora is heard loud and clear. And as we explore the many dimensions of this important conference, we’re also celebrating a major milestone of our own—50 years of Reggae in the Fields. For half a century, this program has been a soundtrack to the diaspora experience—telling our stories, carrying our culture, and connecting communities right here in Ottawa and beyond. So today’s broadcast sits right at that intersection—diaspora dialogue and cultural legacy. Over the course of the program, we’ll take you behind the scenes and into the heart of the conference: • We begin with the Conference Manager, setting the vision and giving us insight into what it takes to bring this global gathering together. • Then, we hear from two voices—one reflecting on the experience of a past conference, and another preparing to attend for the very first time this June. • We’ll connect with this year’s corporate partner, the Jamaica National Group, to explore the role of economic empowerment in diaspora engagement. • We’ll also hear from representatives of the Diaspora Councils—both established and youth—on the importance of representation and the next generation of leadership. • From there, we’ll speak with the Minister of State responsible for Diaspora Affairs, as well as the Jamaican High Commissioner to Canada, reflecting the strong ties between Jamaica and its global community. • And we’ll highlight the Diaspora Day of Service, where words turn into action and commitment meets community impact. All of this, woven together with the spirit of Reggae in the Fields—a reminder that music, like the diaspora itself, is about connection, resilience, and identity. So, stay with us for this special presentation as we celebrate 11 years of the Diaspora Conference and 50 years of reggae on the airwaves—one nation, many homes, one people. |
| Exodus Bob Marley - single |
| Interview:Shani Reid, Project Manager for the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference,
As the Project Manager for the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, Shani Reid is the architect behind this year’s massive undertaking in Montego Bay. Shani’s task goes far beyond event logistics; she is managing the bridge between a global Diaspora eager to contribute and a nation navigating the vital recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. |
| Many Rivers to Cross Jimmy CLiff - single |
| Interview: Mrs. Simone Smart and Ms. Monica Reynolds.
The Diaspora Conference is more than a series of discussions—it’s a space where connections are built, ideas are exchanged, and identities are affirmed across borders. Today, we’re joined by two special guests—one who attended the last conference and can reflect on its impact, and another who is preparing to attend this June, bringing fresh expectations and perspective. |
| Solidarity Black Uhuru - single |
| Interview: Ms. Paulette Simpson, Executive for Corporate and Public Affairs.
Each year, the conference aligns with a leading corporate organization whose work reflects a strong commitment to national development and diaspora engagement. For this year’s staging, that role is being played by the Jamaica National Group—an institution with deep roots in community building and a long-standing connection to Jamaicans both at home and across the globe. |
| I feel Good Beres Hammond - single |
| A joint conversation between representatives of the
• Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (Ms. Lisa Rutty) and the • Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council (Mr. Steven Getten) Representing the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, we welcome Ms. Lisa Rutty—a respected community leader, entrepreneur, and advocate based in Canada. With over two decades of professional experience and a strong record of grassroots engagement, she has been instrumental in strengthening connections between Jamaica and its diaspora, particularly through community development, cultural engagement, and diaspora investment initiatives. Joining her is Mr. Steven Getten, representing Canada on the Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council. As part of a new generation of diaspora leadership, he brings a dynamic voice to issues of youth engagement, identity, and global connectivity, helping to ensure that younger Jamaicans abroad are actively shaping the future of diaspora relations. |
| Smile Jamaica Chronixx - single |
| Interview: The Honourable Alando Terrelonge, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, with responsibility for diaspora engagement.
In his capacity, Minister Terrelonge is the primary link between the Jamaican government and the millions of Jamaicans living overseas. His key focuses include: Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening the role of the Jamaican Diaspora as a vital partner in national development, investment, and knowledge sharing. Diaspora Engagement: Leading initiatives such as the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC) and preparing for the major biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conferences. Global Advocacy: Representing Jamaica on the world stage, including advocating for climate action and sustainable development at summits like the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS). |
| Country Road Toos and the Maytals - single |
| Interview: Her Excellency Marsha Coore Lobban, Jamaica’s High Commissioner to Canada.
As Jamaica’s senior diplomatic representative in this country, High Commissioner Coore Lobban plays a critical role in strengthening the relationship between Jamaica and Canada, while also engaging deeply with the Jamaican diaspora across communities such as Ottawa and Toronto. With a distinguished career in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, she brings extensive experience in diplomacy, international relations, and diaspora engagement. Her work continues to highlight the importance of Jamaicans abroad as key partners in national development and cultural connection. |
| Stick By Me John Holt - single |
| Interview: Dr. Silvanus Thompson, former member of the Diaspora Jamaica Council. Dr. Thompson
Dr. Silvanus Thompson, a respected voice within the Jamaican diaspora and a former member of the Diaspora Jamaica Council. Dr. Thompson has played an important role in strengthening the relationship between Jamaica and its global community, bringing thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to service. Among his many contributions is his involvement in initiatives such as the “Day of Service,” which highlights the power of collective action and the meaningful impact the diaspora can have in supporting communities both locally and abroad. His work reflects a passion for cultural identity, community development, and sustained engagement. |
| Til I'm Laid to Rest Buju Banton - single |
| Final Word Hyacinth Mason - Spoken Word |
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Good afternoon everybody how’s everybody doing on this fine Saturday afternoon respect everybody in here and out there listening, especially to junior Smith host with the most
3:02 PM, April 11th, 2026