When Dr Marlene Street Forrest was informed that she would be conferred with the Order of Jamaica (OJ), one of the highest orders on the land, by Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen on October 20, she initially thought it was a prank.

“At first, I thought it was a prank call, but when I was told where the call was coming from, I knew that it was not a prank,” she said.

After realising it was not a prank, Street Forrest said the level of emotion she felt was very difficult to describe.

“I am very humbled to be so honoured. I have worked hard for the betterment of Jamaica and the people, but did not do so for any honour. I will continue to work for the good of Jamaica on whichever platform I am on. I will work to make sure Jamaicans succeed,” she said.

Street Forrest has been leading the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) for the last 23 years, first as general manager and then as managing director.

For her, this award is the icing on the cake, given that she intended to retire in December of last year, but remained at the helm while a search continues for her replacement.

Through her leadership, the JSE was, in 2015 and 2018, designated the best-performing stock market in the world.

Street Forrest credits the award to her team at JSE, family and friends. She also pointed out the support they have given her over the years and stated that she could not have achieved all she had without their support.

Dr Street Forrest is being recognised for her exceptional service in the field of capital market development.