Jamaicizms

Dr. Fay Gyapong-Porter is a first-generation African-American raised in Brooklyn, New York by immigrant parents. Her mother was born in Cuba and raised in Jamaica. Her father was born and raised in Kumasi Ghana, West Africa. From an early age, the importance of education was instilled in her life by both parents. She had a curious mind, a very active imagination and many interests as a child. Her parents often quoted parables to live by from their respective cultures. In addition, her mother, Enid, a.k.a. "Nen", along with her Aunt Sybil and other Jamaican family members often recited old sayings which depicted life circumstances- big or small. These sayings always resonated with Dr. Fay, and she is happy to finally be able to fulfill her long-cherished dream of sharing some of her most salient memories of them with others in this whimsical way.