An Unforgettable Evening of Inspiration: Grit to Glory Book Launch at UWI

Kingston, Jamaica – July 17, 2025

The Senior Common Room at the University of the West Indies, Mona, was transformed into a vibrant space of reflection, gratitude, and aspiration as over 150 distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the Jamaican launch of Grit to Glory, the powerful memoir of Dr. Garold Hamilton. This highly anticipated event was not just a book launch—it was a tribute to resilience, legacy, and giving back.

The evening was masterfully guided by Gillian Larmond, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. With elegance, confidence, and an expert touch, Gillian orchestrated the program seamlessly. Her warmth and professionalism created the perfect ambiance for the evening, keeping the audience engaged and the flow of the event perfectly timed. Her spectacular delivery and coordination added a layer of polish that made the night truly unforgettable.

Headlining the evening was Ambassador Senator the Hon. Audrey Marks, who delivered a deeply personal and moving keynote address. She recounted her decade-long friendship with Dr. Hamilton, which began after his feature on the iconic Profile television program. Ambassador Marks praised Dr. Hamilton as a true friend of Jamaica, a generous spirit, and a global professional whose philanthropic efforts through the DTR Foundation continue to uplift communities across the island.

The atmosphere was further enriched by Professor Densil Williams, Principal of UWI and longtime friend of Dr. Hamilton. Drawing from their shared history at Manning’s High School, Dr. Williams told heartfelt stories of a young Garold who selflessly tutored his peers in additional mathematics—an early sign of the servant leadership that would define his life. He also honored Dr. Hamilton’s father, Humphrey Hamilton, who once sold ice cream at Manning’s, often giving it away to students in need. “Charity,” he noted, “was embedded in Garold long before he wore any title.”

Adding an academic flourish to the evening, Professor Andrew Spencer, President of the Caribbean Maritime University, introduced the author. In a playful yet poignant speech, he referenced Dr. Hamilton’s middle name, “Mainlow,” connecting it to a life devoted to service. Professor Spencer’s remarks affirmed the book’s theme: a life of grit, purpose, and unwavering commitment to others.

Another significant highlight of the evening was the presence of Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health & Wellness, who was an honoured guest and a long-standing friend of Dr. Hamilton. In his remarks, Dr. Tufton praised Dr. Hamilton’s extraordinary journey, his dedication to nation-building, and his meaningful contributions to the health and infrastructure sectors, both through his professional work and his nonprofit, the DTR Foundation.

When Dr. Garold Hamilton finally took the stage, the room fell into a reverent silence. His 25-minute address was powerful, personal, and profoundly inspiring. He spoke candidly about his journey from Shaolin, Westmoreland, to becoming a global engineering executive—facing and overcoming adversity, staying grounded in purpose, and remaining committed to reaching back and lifting others. His message connected with every generation in the room—from students to CEOs, from community leaders to educators.

The guest list was as remarkable as the occasion. In attendance were:

•  Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health & Wellness
•  Julian Robinson, Opposition Spokesman on Finance
•  Stacey Knight, respected public figure and well-wisher
•  Allison Mais, Chief Operating Officer of VM Group
•  Sean Shelton, attorney and business partner in Real Equity
•  Roan Grant, contractor and Director of Real Equity
•  Enoch Gooden, CEO of LifeCall Ambulance Service
•  Several university lecturers, students, executives, and friends from the local and diaspora communities

The event underscored not only the magnitude of Dr. Hamilton’s journey, but also the reach of his impact. From boardrooms to inner-city communities, from real estate development to nonprofit education efforts, Grit to Glory tells a story that is uniquely Jamaican—and globally inspiring.

This wasn’t just a book launch. It was a gathering of minds, hearts, and history—a night where the past met the future, and hope stood tall in the pages of a memoir destined to move generations.