A vibrant, spirited exchange of cultures
Published:Tuesday | July 18, 2017 | 12:00 AMJanet Silvera
WESTERN BUREAU:
With a lot to celebrate, weeks after the signing of a peace treaty in their homeland, Colombians in Jamaica commemorated the start to Independence Day, at Tristan Alvarado and wife Laura Mazabel’s home at the Tryall Club, Hanover last Saturday.
Hosted in collaboration with Colombian Ambassador Roberto Garcia Marquez and his team at the High Commission, Alvarado and Mazabel placed the welcome mat at the door of their sprawling Zion Hill estate, showcasing that spirit of optimism that has united Colombia like never before.
The décor celebrated the land; the food was a culinary delight and the entertainment was authentic.
Entertainment was provided by 25 young Colombian athletes wearing national costumes representing different regions of the country, who danced with fervour and precision. Their performance was accompanied by a four-piece band that brought immense energy to hills surrounding the estate.
It was an evening of cultural and musical connection. It was evident that Jamaicans and Colombians are proud of their vibrant cultures.
The event played out beautifully, and it was easy for Ambassador Marquez to say these words with conviction:
“Now our goal is to take advantage of this unique positive momentum of the peace process to pursue economic stability and equity while working to improve the lives of the most vulnerable and poorest in our society.”
A number of investors in the tourism industry were in attendance, including officials of the DeCameron Resort, a Colombian company with three hotels on the island. Caribbean Producers Jamaica Limited’s Tom Tyler and fiancé Tiffany Edwards and songstress Tessanne Chin, were among persons who turned out for the celebration.