Catherine 'Cathi' Levy
- tcollins66
- Mar 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 10
Transforming Young Lives Through the Arts
In an era where screens often dominate the childhood experience, Catherine Cathi Levy has emerged as a beacon of creativity and inspiration for children. As a producer at Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC), Ms. Levy contributed to the transformation of the landscape of children’s television, creating a platform that not only entertained but also educated young minds. Her passion for the arts and her dedication to nurturing talent in the younger generation have left an indelible mark on countless lives.
She captured the hearts of the Caribbean in 1983 when she was crowned Miss Jamaica World, triumphing over 19 other contestants. Her grace and poise propelled her into the international spotlight as she represented Jamaica at the Miss World contest, where she secured an impressive fourth place. However, it was not just her beauty that made an impact; it was her vision for empowering youth through the arts that would define her legacy.
Five years after her reign as Miss Jamaica, she became a pioneer in her own right by launching the Cathi Levy Little People and Teen Players Club. This performing arts troupe welcomed children between the ages of five and 18, providing them with an unparalleled opportunity to engage in the magic of theatre. Under her guidance, young performers explored their potential through singing, dancing, and drama, fostering a sense of community and self-expression that many had never experienced before.
Ms. Levy's influence stretched far beyond the members of her troupe. Many of her former students have gone on to achieve remarkable success in various artistic fields. Notable alumni include esteemed music lecturer and performer Michael Sean Harris, talented singers Duane Stephenson and Tami Chynn, and members of the celebrated National Dance Theatre Company. This creative lineage speaks volumes about the profound impact that she has had on the lives of these young individuals, igniting their passions and propelling them toward fulfilling careers.
Her commitment to children’s programming at JBC reflected her belief in the transformative power of the arts. Catherine Cathi Levy understood that television could do more than entertain; it could inspire and uplift. By producing engaging content that resonated with young audiences, she instilled life lessons, nurtured creativity, and fostered a love for the performing arts.
Her legacy extends beyond her professional achievements; it lies in the dreams she has helped cultivate. By providing a nurturing environment where children could express themselves freely, she enabled countless young people to dream big. Her dedication to arts education has equipped these children with the tools needed to navigate life's challenges, transforming them not only into artists but also into confident individuals ready to take on the world.
In a world where art has the power to shape futures, Catherine Cathi Levy stands as a remarkable example of how one person can ignite a fire within a generation. Her impact on the lives of children—through her productions, her troupe, and her unwavering belief in the power of the arts—is a testament to the change that creativity can bring. Through her efforts, she has woven a tapestry of talent, hope, and inspiration that will resonate for years to come.