Leonie Forbes

Leonie Forbes, born on June 14 in Kingston, Jamaica, was a trailblazing actress, broadcaster, and media pioneer. Educated at institutions including Excelsior College and Durham College, she began her career as a typist with Sir Philip Sherlock at the University College of the West Indies before being introduced to radio through playwright Barry Reckord.

In 1955, she became one of the first voices on the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC), where she developed her skills in broadcasting and acting. With the support of mentors like Robin Michelin, she studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in England, earning a scholarship and a diploma in Radio, Television, and Stage. While in the UK, she appeared in numerous productions and BBC radio and television dramas.

Leonie returned to JBC in 1966 and later moved to Australia, where she acted, taught drama, and worked at IBM. On returning to Jamaica in 1970, she produced and presented television content, led the launch of JBC Radio Two FM, and directed the JBC TV Drama Workshop. In 1976, she was appointed Director of Radio Broadcasting.

A celebrated stage and screen actress, Forbes starred in numerous pantomimes, plays, and films including Children of Babylon, Club Paradise, and Milk and Honey. She co-authored The Re-Entry Into Sound, a foundational text for Caribbean broadcasters.

Honoured with the Order of Distinction (Officer Class), Silver and Bronze Musgrave Medals, and the Centenary Medal, Forbes also received the “My Life in the Theatre” medal in 2001 from the Mexican Theatre Centre. She was the mother of four children and left an indelible legacy in Caribbean arts and media.