By training and profession, Joy Spence is a chemist, but she is also globally recognized as the first woman to hold the title of Master Blender in the spirits industry. Her journey is one defined by a deep love for science and a determination to break barriers in fields traditionally dominated by men.

While attending Holy Childhood High School, a beloved chemistry teacher sparked Joy’s fascination with the subject. After that teacher’s passing, she made a personal commitment to pursue chemistry and become an expert in the field. That promise guided her through her studies at the University of the West Indies, where she excelled academically, served as President of the Chemistry Club, and graduated with the highest average in chemistry.

After a brief period teaching at her alma mater and the University of Technology, Joy was drawn into Jamaica’s spirits industry. In 1981, she became Chief Chemist at Wray and Nephew. Years of dedication and mentorship under Master Blender Owen Tulloch prepared her for a historic moment. In 1997, she became Master Blender, shaping the flavour of Jamaican rum enjoyed worldwide.

Among Joy Spence’s numerous accolades are the Jamaican National Honour of the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) conferred in 2017, an honorary Doctor of Science from the University of Loughborough and an honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of the West Indies.

In 2018, she received the National Medal for Science and Technology, the first woman to receive this award.

In 2017, Appleton Estate introduced the Joy Anniversary Blend, a limited-edition 25 Year-Old rum, to celebrate Joy Spence's 20th Anniversary as the first female Master Blender in the spirits industry.

Wray & Nephew has officially named the Appleton Estate rum tour the Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience, in honour of her remarkable contributions to the company.

Today, Joy Spence’s legacy continues through her ‘Foundation in Chemistry’ initiative, inspiring the next generation of young scientists across Jamaica.

In 2025, Hope Markes became the first black woman and Caribbean national to be elected as President of the 110-year-old Kiwanis International. An accomplished Kiwanian, community builder, and proud Jamaican, she has spent decades building a legacy of leadership and service.

Markes is a co-founder and charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Hopewell in Hanover. She previously served as Vice President of Kiwanis International from 2024 to 2025, after completing three years on the International Board of Trustees. Her leadership journey also includes serving as Governor of the Eastern Canada and Caribbean District during the 2013 to 2014 administrative year, guiding clubs across the region in service initiatives and membership growth.

Markes’ dedication to children and community development has earned her numerous prestigious honours. These include the George F. Hixson Fellowship, the Walter Zeller Fellowship through the Kiwanis Children’s Fund and The Eliminate Project, the Mel Osborne Fellow award, Champion for Children recognition from the Kiwanis Foundation of Canada, and the Godfrey Dyer Medallion from the Kiwanis Foundation of Jamaica.

Her impact is also being recognised across the Jamaican diaspora. The City of Lauderhill officially proclaimed January 8, 2026, as Hope Markes Day, honouring her decades of service and global influence.

Through service, vision, and determination, Hope Markes continues to blaze a trail for Caribbean women, proving that leadership rooted in service can inspire change around the world.

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