Legacies honoured in closing month of celebrating dads
Published:Monday | July 1, 2024 | 7:42 PMAshley Anguin/Gleaner Writer
The National Commercial Bank (NCB) recently hosted a special Father's Day Cocktail event at Reading Heights in St James in a heartwarming celebration of fatherhood that marked the culmination of a month-long tribute to fathers and father figures across Jamaica.
The event, themed 'Honour Dad's Legacy', took place on June 27 and provided attendees with a festive experience complete with delectable cuisine and entertainment by the popular Coppershot.
This gathering was part of NCB's June-long initiative dedicated to recognising and honouring fathers for their invaluable contributions to their children, families, communities, and society at large.
Throughout the month, NCB organised a series of events aimed at celebrating the pivotal role fathers play in fostering strength, integrity, and resilience in Jamaican society.
The Gleaner spoke with several fathers at the event, each sharing their unique perspectives on fatherhood and its importance in shaping the future of Jamaica.
Horace Gyles, owner of HBG Associates Chartered Accountants, the proud father of an 18-year-old son, spoke passionately about the multifaceted nature of fatherhood. For Gyles, being a father extends far beyond providing material support as it also encompasses nurturing, safeguarding a child's future, and serving as a family protector.
“It is your job to ensure that the children are okay mentally, emotionally, spiritually. There are so many things it means to be a father,” Gyles stated.
Gyles' journey to fatherhood was marked by both loss and joy. After experiencing the heartbreak of losing his first child, he later welcomed a son with profound gratitude.
“I said, 'God, you finally gave me a child, and I want to be a good father to this child. My only child',” said Gyles.
“To see my son become an adult has been rewarding. He is now 18 years old, and I have no issue with him with school, his behaviour, nothing bad. I am proud of him and proud of myself and my wife for raising a child like him,” he added.
When it comes to celebrating Father's Day, Gyles values simplicity and togetherness, which reinforces the bonds of family unity. His family attends church and enjoys preparing meals together on the day.
In offering advice to fellow fathers, Gyles underscored the importance of sacrifice, open communication, and attentive listening. He encouraged fathers to guide their children while allowing them to develop their individuality. Gyles firmly believes that increased paternal involvement in Jamaican homes could lead to a more positive society.
His son, present at the event, corroborated Gyles' commitment to fatherhood, praising his spiritual guidance and helpfulness.
“In fact, on the way here we were talking about coming to this thing being held to honour fathers here and how we should trust in God along with our own work,” the son indicated.
Exciting and enjoyable
Roxroy Kerr, father of six and owner of Principal Cesspool and Mobile Toilets, described fatherhood as the most exciting and enjoyable experience a man could look forward to. Kerr recalled the excitement he felt upon learning that he would become a father. This was particularly significant as he himself is an “only child, grandchild, and great-grandchild”.
For Kerr, the most rewarding aspect of fatherhood is ensuring his children's health and education.
“Also, you cannot have an influence in their lives without you bonding with your children. Children, most of the time, will listen to you, but they will also imitate what you do. So a great relationship requires time invested and great listening,” Kerr told The Gleaner.
“Very important because children tend to listen to the father more. Fathers have that authoritative figure, and so it is very important to be in the home with the children and to spend time with them,” he added.
Richard Wallace, immediate past president of the Negril Chamber of Commerce and Industry, on the other hand, spoke of the excitement and hope that came with the news of fatherhood. He guides his children to becoming even greater versions of himself.
Wallace's approach to celebrating Father's Day is rooted in everyday actions, where he strives to be a consistent role model, provider, and inspiration for his children. He finds the greatest reward in his children's love, respect, and appreciation for his efforts.
“I believe most of the problems we are having in Jamaica and in the world is as a result of poor parenting. I believe if more fathers were a part of their children's lives in a meaningful way, we would have a better and gentler society, more productive, and we would live in a better world,” Wallace explained.
The NCB Father's Day Cocktail event not only honoured these dedicated fathers but also highlighted the broader societal impact of engaged fatherhood and gifted them a gift box with a bottle of Whiskey.