A day after their plight was highlighted, Pleasantville Secondary School Panjammers received news that JMMB Express plans to invest $20,000 to assist them in competing at the National Secondary Schools Panorama finals.
JMMB Express CEO Elson James responded to Guardian Media's exclusive story as the Panjammers pleaded with the public to assist them in getting a sponsor for the finals which are set to take place this weekend at the Queens Park Savannah Grand Stand.
After reading the story, James contacted JMMB Express San Fernando Manager Dominic Victor who reached out to the school to offer assistance.
"JMMB Express thought it pertinent to support this school as they are part of the San Fernando community which JMMB Express serve as well as our strong belief in investing in our youth, culture and music," James said in the statement.
“Personally, I hold the steelpan near and dear to my heart. I see the steelpan as a perfect representation of our people’s culture and creativity. I strongly believe in providing a positive avenue for youth to express their creativity and passion as it is much needed in today’s society, and the Junior Panorama competition is doing just that," he added.
The CEO said, "We need to help these young people today to make the right choices and help them succeed in their dreams and aspirations. Pleasantville Secondary School should also be given a fair opportunity to participate like any other school. We at JMMB Express would like to empower them to do just that."
Wishing the team the best in the finals, James said: " I am very proud to help my community in which we serve." He said the JMMB Express team will be doing a handover payment to the school soon.
The Panjammers consist of several first-time steelpan players who only started learning about the instrument last November. After six weeks of practice which often lasted for over five hours every day of the week, the students managed to earn a place in the finals.
Music arranger Curtis Marcelle who has been working daily with the band congratulated the students saying he was proud of their progress. The students have been practising at the NLCB Fonclair panyard which has a long-standing relationship with the school.
Despite the $20,000 investment by JMMB Express, the school still needs $15,000 for the transportation of the instruments. Marcelle is hoping that a contractor can donate a truck to transport the steelpans for the event.
Anyone wanting to assist the students by contributing snacks, lunch, and water can call 797-5489 or 369-5628 or make donations to RBC High Street San Fernando at Account #981100810.