Carol Ivey

From Lawrence Tavern to the Heart of Jamaican Broadcasting

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Born and raised in the tranquil community of Lawrence Tavern in rural St. Andrew, Carol embarked on a journey that would redefine her life and inspire many. Attending Oberlin High School, she faced the unique challenges that come with having a brother with Down syndrome. This experience shaped her perspective and instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and resilience.

A fateful encounter with Glenna Smith, the librarian at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC), who shared a similar journey as a mother of a child with Down syndrome, opened the doors to a new chapter in Carol's life. Glenna told her of an available position in JBC's library, and she applied and got the job. That was in 1973. Carol began her professional career in the library, diving into newspaper clippings, cataloging books, and assisting reporters with their research. Her work quickly expanded as she collaborated closely with the newsroom, proving herself invaluable in sourcing information that would impact broadcasts.

Carol’s ambition led her to Henderson Secretarial College, where she studied shorthand and typing. Balancing her education and work, she attended classes in the morning while dedicating her evenings to the library, all while nurturing a growing interest in television production.

Carol Ivey. Photo by: C. Ivey

Her career trajectory took another significant turn when Carol transitioned from the reference library to the film library, where she was trained in film editing. Here, she became responsible for reviewing movies before they aired, using a Steinbeck machine to splice out any derogatory content. After the broadcast, she would carefully reassemble the films, packaging them for their next destination across the Caribbean. Additionally, she took on the crucial task of compiling a reel of commercials each night for the following day's broadcasts.

As her skills and confidence flourished, Carol began collaborating closely with Don Bucknor, who conducted training sessions for JBC employees. Recognized for her talent, she was promoted to administrative assistant, taking charge of studio bookings and assigned ENG camera work. This pivotal role allowed her to delve deeply into local productions, including beloved shows such as Lime Tree Lane, Bankra Basket, Enter The Dojo, and Vibrations.

Notably, she served as the production assistant for the Schools Challenge Quiz, a role she still fulfills to this day, contributing her time and expertise to promote education through entertainment. Beyond her broadcasting achievements, Carol played an essential part in the JBC Sports Club, where she served as president and was an active member of the netball, softball, and volleyball teams. Her dedication to sports extended to playing professionally at Guantanamo Bay, embodying her passion for teamwork and competition. As a staff representative on the JBC Board, she further solidified her commitment to improving the workplace for her colleagues.

Seeking new challenges, Carol started her own business in property maintenance and took on freelance opportunities with TTP Marketing and Communication, owned by Angela Thame, a former producer of The Oprah Winfrey Show. Together, they worked on several high-profile events for the Prime Minister of Jamaica, showcasing Carol's versatility and talent. Carol's career path led her to Hot 102 FM, where she served as a sales coordinator. When Hot 102 was acquired by CVM, her expertise remained invaluable, as she transitioned into production and administration within the sales department. Following her time at CVM, Carol joined CAL Manufacturing as promotions and marketing manager, quickly immersing herself in the RJR’s Cross Country Invasion project, once again demonstrating her exceptional skill set.

Now retired, Carol has returned to the studio at Television Jamaica (TVJ), where she continues to play a pivotal role in the Schools Challenge Quiz, showcasing her lasting commitment to education and the next generation. An overachiever with an infectious zest for life, Carol loves to dance and thrives on meeting and engaging with people. With high moral standards and a genuinely caring nature, she listens deeply and encourages those around her. Carol's journey, filled with passion and perseverance, serves as a remarkable testament to her character and her impact on the Jamaican broadcasting landscape, leaving an enduring legacy that inspires all who cross her path