Guinness gives back

The Arthur Guinness Foundation is to give close to $7 million to community social programmes locally.

This will form part of the world-wide celebration of the annual Arthur Guinness Day on September 27.

"This year, our celebration will be different. It will definitely be more significant as it will not only be a celebration of Sir Arthur but also of great Jamaicans who embody the characteristics of Sir Arthur by dedicating themselves to helping others," said Guinness brand manager Racquel Nevins.

"Guinness is a fine example of greatness not only as a world-renowned brand but also a great philanthropic movement. As a major brand in Jamaica, Guinness wanted to give back through outreach and assures that the funds will be put to very good use," added Nevins.

The community heroes being acknowledged at the Arthur Guinness celebrations will be assisted in their social community development initiatives, with the money coming from the Arthur Guinness Fund.

social programme

The money will be used by these nominees towards the social programme or institution of their choice.

According to Nevins, the individuals being celebrated are community heroes who have been nominated by their fellow community members and persons enrolled in the Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship in Montego Bay, which was partially funded by the Arthur Guinness Fund.

The Arthur Guinness Fund was established in 2009 as a standardised programme mandated to maintain Arthur Guinness' benevolence through the Guinness brand.

Guinness is one of the oldest stout brands on the market and a popular choice of drink.

Its founder, Arthur Guinness was not only a successful entrepreneur but also a well-respected philanthropist.

This year's celebration of Arthur Guinness Day in Jamaica will culminate at the National Indoor Sports Centre with performances by Sizzla, who was nominated as one of the Guinness dancehall icons, soca artiste Destra and Kerwin Du Bois as well as dancehall sensations PopCaan and I-Octane.