In Pursuit of Joy - Joy Spence honoured

Master Blender Joy Spence flanked by husband Emile
and JWN Chairman Clement 'Jimmy' Lawrence

'In Pursuit of Joy’ was the witty title of last Thursday’s event held by J. Wray & Nephew Limited to honour Joy Spence, the first woman Masterblender in the world.  

Master of ceremonies Beverley Anderson-Duncan took us on a wondrous journey through Joy's life of excellence.

The Toasts were led by none other than Most Hon Juliet Holness MP and wife of the Prime Minister.  Who better to laud the multi-tasking Joy Spence, as they both have been exceptional at work-life balance, a great example for their fellow women.

Master of Ceremonies
Beverley Anderson-Duncan

Most Hon. Juliet Holness MP
toasts Joy Spence

The brilliant, humble Joy Spence was a chemistry whiz, who after graduating from UWI returned to her alma mater Holy Childhood High School, to teach the subject.  One of her former students, Dr Novelette McKnight, now a lecturer in Chemistry at UWI, said it was Joy Spence who made the subject so exciting, because of her creative methods of teaching.

After gaining her Master’s Degree with record breaking marks, Joy crossed over from academia to manufacturing at J.Wray & Nephew Limited, rising to the position of Director of Quality and Technical Services, from which she retired earlier this year.  However, her prized position as the company’s Masterblender continues, and will actually be escalated next year as noted by Wray & Nephew Chairman Clement ‘Jimmy’ Lawrence, and outlined by Gruppo Campari Global Brand PR Manager (Rums), Catherine McDonald.

Wyvolyn Gager, first woman Editor-in-Chief
at the Gleaner toasts Joy Spence

Gruppo Campari Global Brand PR
Manager (Rums), Catherine McDonald

The most moving moment of the event was the tribute by Joy’s daughter Tracy-Ann, who spoke about her mother’s unending generosity and her ability to serve both family and workplace fully. Congratulations Joy Spence – well deserved!