Lloyd Dixon
- tcollins66
- Mar 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 22
The Inspiring Journey: From Trench Town to the World
Lloyd Dixon's story is one of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Growing up in Jamaica and attending Trench Town Comprehensive High School, he laid the groundwork for a lifelong career in media that would take him from humble beginnings to the forefront of the industry.
Lloyd’s journey truly began when he joined the National Youth Service in 1976. He was placed at the Jamaica Movement for the Advancement of Literacy (JAMAL), where he was a part of the entity’s film and radio unit. Despite the less-than-ideal equipment available at the time, Lloyd thrived in this environment. There, he caught the attention of key figures at JAMAL, including General Manager Joyce Robinson in the media landscape, and film and lighting expert John Swaby. They recognised his potential and subsequently helped him to secure a scholarship for training at Visnews, an international news agency based in London, England.
By 1981, Lloyd was seconded from JAMAL to the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) as a cameraman in the news department. It was there that he faced his first significant assignment: capturing an interview with music legends Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, affectionately known as the Rhythm Twins. This pivotal moment marked the start of an incredible journey through the vibrant and often tumultuous world of Caribbean media.
Lloyd Dixon’s career was not without its challenges. As a cameraman, he found himself documenting political meetings and violence across Jamaica and the region. His work took him to various corners of the Caribbean as well as to the United States and Canada, where he captured significant events on film, adding layers of depth to the stories he told through his lens. After the JBC closed its doors, he seamlessly transitioned to Television Jamaica (TVJ), where he continued to hone his craft. Known for his exceptional time management skills, Lloyd developed a reputation for approaching tasks methodically and logically.
His mantra— 'Myself, Time, and Order'—encapsulates his philosophy:
Myself: Lloyd Dixon constantly challenges himself and holds himself to the highest standards of performance.
Time: His superb time management skills allowed him to juggle the demands of a fast-paced industry while delivering quality work on schedule.
Order: Lloyd's logical and orderly approach ensured that every project he undertook was executed with precision and care.
One of the most profound aspects of Lloyd Dixon's career has been his deep commitment to mentorship. In a media landscape where knowledge is often closely guarded, he stands out as a beacon of generosity and openness.
He believes that the true measure of success lies not just in personal achievement but in lifting others as well. He invested time in mentoring countless young individuals entering the media industry.
Recognising the challenges that newcomers face, he was a trusted guide, offering insights drawn from years of experience. His approach is rooted in compassion and understanding; he often shares not just technical skills but also the nuanced lessons learned from facing the industry’s various trials. Whether it’s advice on handling high-pressure situations, enhancing storytelling techniques, or mastering the latest technology, he was always ready to lend his expertise.
What made his mentorship particularly special is his warm and approachable demeanour. He is known for his infectious laughter and genuine personality, creating an environment where young professionals feel comfortable seeking guidance. He believes that laughter can break down barriers and foster connections, and he often uses humour to ease the tensions of learning and growth. His commitment to making mentorship an enjoyable and enriching experience has left a lasting impact on those he has inspired.
Upon retiring, Lloyd didn’t step away from the camera. Instead, he continued his passion for capturing life's moments by recording weddings and other private events. His legacy is not only found in the stories he captured on film but also in the countless individuals he inspired along the way. Lloyd Dixon’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, mentorship, and a passion for media. From the classrooms of Trench Town to the international stage, his story reminds us that with determination and an unwavering commitment to excellence, anything is possible.
