Great Jamaicans

Laurel Cameron Robinson was born in Kingston, Jamaica. She attended Stonehenge Infant School, Orange Hill All Age School, then at Montego Bay Commercial Institute. Laurel is also educated at higher education level, and had an interest in literature, and drama from a very young age. Her first performance on stage was at the tender age of ten, when she recited one of the Honourable Louise Bennett Poems at her school concert. Laurel aspired to be an actress and continued with her performances also in churches. She would also write poems, for her reflections. Laurel was keen to pursue a career in drama, but her dream never came true. After emigrating to England, she returned to writing and performing her poetry at charity events in theatres, the Jamaican Independence celebrations, Schools and Churches. She also performed at the 2012 pre-. Olympic concert held at Summerfield Park Smethwick. Laurel has gained an award for her Poem Windrush. She had the opportunity of reciting it at an event held in Birmingham, Nottingham, and The House of Lords in London. Laurel is a very devoted and caring person to her family and friends. enjoy writing and reading poems-especially patois poems.

When I write, I investigate my feelings and write about issues that I have a passion for and hold deeply in my heart. I The themes of my writing are universal, and are closely related to my Jamaican community. I am generally interested in literature, and I am inspired by people, nature and humour-and these are featured in my poems.

I write and entertain both young and old, and the themes of my poems may be seen thus: The greatness of Jamaicans Reaching out to the young people Unity Historical issues Projection of self-motivation Empowerment My poetry reading sessions help me to reflect on my themes, and the society in general. In my performances, I am deeply touched, and connected by the issues in my poems -especially the experiences of my ancestors, and the inhumane treatment they received in the past.

Writing the Patois language is very special to me, as it enables me to convey it in my poems to the audience. I hope that the message, will penetrate to more of my people as we continue to celebrate our independences in Jamaica - the land of my birth – and a paradise on earth. My message for Jamaicans is that we should continue to respect our nation and each other, and keep contributing to the progress of the nation as we work in harmony.