London – It was an evening of glamour, gratitude, and generations at the St Lucia High Commission in Earl’s Court, as legendary singer Leee John of Imagination hosted a grand surprise celebration to honour his mother, Jessie Stephens MBE, who turned 98 this week.
Held within the ornate surroundings of the St Lucian Embassy, the intimate-yet-lavish gathering brought together family, friends, and members of the Caribbean diaspora to pay tribute to a woman whose quiet strength and dignity helped shape modern Britain.
Jessie Stephens is no ordinary matriarch. A Windrush-era pioneer who arrived in the UK from St Lucia in the 1950s, she built a life of resilience and purpose while raising a family that would go on to influence culture on a global scale.
Her son Leee John, best known for hits like “Just an Illusion” and “Body Talk,” credits her unwavering work ethic and pride in her Caribbean heritage as key to his own artistic journey.
“Tonight is not just a birthday,” John told guests. “It’s a moment to reflect on the living history my mother represents. She’s a foundation, not just for me, but for a generation.”
In her early years in the UK, Jessie Stephens worked as a nurse and civil servant, navigating a society where Black women were often excluded from opportunity. But through it all, she held firm to values of grace, kindness, and quiet leadership.
“Jessie was never one to shout about her contributions,” said one guest. “But she stood tall, raised her children with love and dignity, and helped countless others along the way.”
The evening’s tributes included performances, speeches, and traditional Caribbean fare. The atmosphere was celebratory yet heartfelt—an acknowledgment of a woman who has witnessed nearly a century of change and remained a steady force within her community. Jessie was also given an “This is Your Life” moment with a film to honour her.
Jessie was instrumental in securing the creation of the West Indian Cultural Centre—a vital space for community-building and political discourse in Haringey. Over the years, it has hosted influential figures such as Bernie Grant, Al Sharpton, and Derek Walcott, becoming a beacon for civil rights, culture, and dialogue. Today, despite its powerful legacy, the centre stands in a state of disrepair.
In a borough where spaces for the elderly, youth clubs and affordable work hubs are increasingly scarce, its continued existence and revitalisation are critical. Jessie remains a tireless advocate, fighting not just for the centre’s restoration, but for the wider needs of the community it serves. She believes that with the right support, the centre can once again become a thriving, inclusive hub for learning, creativity, and empowerment.
Jessie’s footprint extends far beyond her years. She is part of the tapestry of Black British history, a Windrush woman whose story reflects both hardship, hope and success.
As Leee John noted in closing, “My mother is the quiet force behind everything I am. Tonight, we give her flowers—while she can still hold them.”
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