Sistahs Jammin' in Jamaica - an annual retreat for women to nurture, enrich, spoil themselves.

What Sistahs are saying about Sistahs Jammin’

Our sistah’s are not shy about expressing how they feel about their experience. Here’s what they have had to say over the years:

  • Sistahs Jammin is one of those, "You have to Be There" experiences. Each year there is a theme. In 2007 it was exploring your favorite "F" words like family, friendship, faith, fortune, etc. Mine was fulfillment.  We are asked to look at how your "F" word shows-up in your life.  How can you define it, substain it and allow it to grow. 

    In 2006 the theme was Free to Be Selfish.  Free to love and value yourself. Women take on many roles during their lifetime. It is OK to take timeout for yourself, love yourself and put yourself first. Self-love is a lesson some women find hard to master.
     
    2008's theme is Grown and Sexy.  Now what does that mean? Well, we are grown and sexy women.  You are a Grown and Sexy woman! 
    Star Waters is our life coach and Kay Holness is the founder of Sistahs Jammin'. Together they will provide us with directions and exercises which will allow us to focus on this theme and this part of our lives.
     
    Each year women are changed and freed by the Sistahs Jammin' experience. I would love for all of you to join us for Sistahs Jammin 2008, July 6-13.
    Ambassador Murray, CA

  • I have had the good fortune to have attended all four Sistahs Jammin'in Jamaica! Facilitator extraordinaire, Debrena Jackson Gandy was the reason I decided to travel to paradise to be one of the jammin' sistahs. We were enlightened and instructed on the mysteries of being a Bold, Bodacious, and Succulent Sistah, through her fabulous workshop. The backdrop to every day's sessions was the beautiful white sandy beaches of Negril, Jamaica. We ate breakfast, lunch and dinner, while enjoying the blue-green Caribbean waters and white sandy beaches.

    Kay matched me up perfectly with an incredible women from Oakland as my roommate. We were also roommates at Sistahs Jammin 2 by choice. We have remained close friends ever since. I have been blessed with several sistah friends who we still email, converse by phone, and visit each other to this day. We owe Sistahs Jammin' for our friendships.

    Which of the four years have been the best? I can honestly say they have all been the best in my eyes. Each one was totally different from the others.

    This is not the kind of retreat or conference that you go to once and casually say, "oh yes, I've been to that before." Each year is unique and stands alone in the experience, adventure, and fun you receive. If you miss one, well sistah, you've just missed something really special and wonderful.

    Like they say..."you had to be there to understand fully what I'm trying to tell you." Kay is brilliant. We do and go places the average tourist will never experience or see. Each year, the Jamaican Board of Tourism throws a party just for us! Now that's what I call being treated special!! I am proud to be one of the over 50 women who have jammed! I'll also be attending #5.

    I wouldn't miss it for the world. See ya at Coyaba Beach Resort in MoBay, my sistahs!

    Anita, Oregon
  • The chance to exhale, deeeeply, and commune with the waves, the trees, the fresh air and my sistahs. Powerful, insightful sessions that left me a changed woman, and rituals that renewed my spirit. If I could wave a magic wand and have one wish it would be this: That every sistah have the chance to attend "Sistahs Jammin' in Jamaica." Kay, thank you for bringing this unique and soul-satisfying gift to us.
    Debrena Jackson-Gandy- Author, Seattle, WA

  • "Sistahs Jammin' In Jamaica is all that the name implies and MORE: white-sandy beaches; sun-kissed bodies; warm waters; warm waters; baby soft breeezes that wrap around you and caress your every thought while engulfing your senses; food and drink that expand your palate and blow your mind; moving to the beat and partying on moonlit beaches; exploring the lush country-side; being "welcomed back home" by brothas and sistahs; PLUS the bonus of sistahshood.

    Meet like-minded sistah-women and share in a spritual experience that gently leads you through a series of workshops which expand your concept of who you are and sets you to exploring the possibilities of who you can be.

    Learn how to communicate more from your heart; expand your sensual experiences; experience friendship and sistahshood at a new level; let go of the old you and hang on as your self-esteem soars.

    You're having so much fun and you don't realize that you're doing that deep spiritual growth that usually comes through the pain of lonely introspection."
    Donna M., Portland, OR

  • Sistah's Jammin is a unique spiritual women's retreat that is annually coordinated by a native Jamaican (Karaine Holness) and it is in its 6th year of existence.

    It is an experience that you have to be open and receptive to receive. It may involve you confronting past hurts. However, Sistah Jammers provide a nurturing environment with the aid of a life coach(Star Waters), who share tools as you unveil, confront, reflect to eventually embrace and empower the real you. Therefore, it can be a life changing experience for you, as you discover your intended life's purpose.

    You will experience the essence of the Jamaican culture, local food, authentic driving to off the beat scenic places that no other travel or tour group will provide.

    You will laugh, party and remain connected with this group of Sistahs and past sistah Jammers throughout the year, either on your own or through Kay as a source of support, friendship and at times may help you with personal issues that may arise.

    Whatever is discussed or experienced in Sistah's Jammin remains a secret with the group. So plan on coming to Jamaica open minded to receive all that God intended you to receive.

    Jammer from '05, '06, '07

    Dr. Jackie Satchell-Jones, CT

  • I was in ill health when I was invited to and attended "Sistahs Jammin" 2002. I wasn't sure if I had the physical or emotional energy to come.

    I was told... "Sistah, just GET HERE, Jamaica is a VERY healing place."

    Those 7 days triggered a miracle in my life. The person (me) who returned home was transformed. I was changed by the magic of the surroundings, the powerful life improvement tools shared by Wellness Coach Star Waters and by the opportunity to share time with fun, interesting women.

    When you see me at Sistahs Jammin 2005, you will see someone who has "released" 100 pounds of unhealthy weight since 2002.

    No, I can't say Sistahs Jammin, in itself, did it. What it did do, though, was to be the intervention and catalyst that I needed to convince me that I was "Free To Be!" I was then positive that I needed to "walk into my greatness" as a healthy, happy and prosperous woman on this planet.

    Edna, OR
  • Dear Kay,

    As you ladies embark upon the next installment of "SISTAH'S JAMMIN"; I look forward to the outcome with much anticipation. As a loving partner of one of your staunch supporters and participates, I always look forward to the transformation, which has taken place in Quenette, as she returns from having spent several days with all of you. I continue to marvel as to how someone who appears to be so perfect (though I maybe a little prejudice) can return from "SISTAH'S JAMMIN" a better person, a more intuitive mother and an exciting supportive partner and "help mate."

    Most psychologists would agree that none us could begin to reach the pinnacle of success in relationships until we truly find, explore and understand ourselves. I believe that your weeklong event and your planned agenda go a long way in "hitting this mark" and improving the lives of all that participate.

    As you can tell, I have been blessed to be the beneficiary of what you accomplish. Not just for the week that you spend together, but for the continued support that you provide throughout the year.

    In closing, I hope that you have great fun and relaxation------ I wish you and "SISTAH'S JAMMIN" much success-------- I will be praying for the safe return of the entire group

    With Warmest Regards, George, TX

    George, A loving partner of a participant

  • My first contact with someone connected with Sistah's Jammin, other than Star, was you! Remember, our phone conversation while Star & I was traveling to Jamaica. You were very warm and cordial. Then our official introduction at the registration desk, I'll never forget, the BUMP! That did it! I knew then a bond was being established. Thank you for being you and sharing your homeland.

    I like to comment on the hotel employees, SUPERB!!! The greeting that Star and I received upon entering the hotel! They remembered Star right off and they approached her with welcome arms and smiles of great joy to see her. That said a lot to me! I've traveled many places, but never have I been treated so royal. They all went out their way to make our stay special. I am truly happy that you decided to keep Sistah's Jammin at Coyaba.

    My next contact was with SaEnya! Fifthteen minutes in this lady company I was on a different spiritual high and where I stayed the entire week of Sistah's Jammin.

    The meeting of the other sistah's participants, the openness to share of one another, the meeting at 6:00 AM with the beautiful hot sun beaming down on us in the clear blue Caribbean Sea for prayer every morning was just awesome. What a way to start the day! It was very inspirational for me.

    I must comment on Sistah's Jammin facilitator. Sistah Star, was awsome. She knows her stuff! It was just great how unknown sistah's responded in group sessions under her directions. The objective, Free To Be, was certainly met by all.

    I liked how all the sistah's accepted and respected each other for who they were. The sistah's togetherness throughout the week was a joy to see. It's not often a week spent with unknown females can end as a blissful occasion. True bonds were established.

    Yes, Soon come! You will see me at the next Sistah's Jammin!

    Love ya!

    Jamaica Jane, Portland, OR

  • I am one of the 'Elders' that has Jammed with the 'Young Uns' for the past two years. I have been blessed in my life time to have travelled the World. No one in a million years would have told me that I would have taken a journey to Jamaica with women whom I've never met and it would have such an impact on my life.

    Before Sistahs Jammin' in Jamaica I was a retired grandmother who had devoted the rest of my life to God and the Church. After Sistahs Jammin' I became a Student in the New York City Adult Ed Program,  still committed to my God and Church. Being in the presence of those 'Sistahs' especially the facilitator Star Waters asking "Can you teach an old dog new tricks" "Put self first" "No! a complete sentence"  these words got me on this wonderful journey.

    The sistahs call to let me know that they are very proud of 'Me' and they will be there for my graduation. I cannot wait.

     Thank you ladies for Never giving up. May God continue to Bless each and everyone of you and your families.

    Kathy, New York, NY

  • I knew of Sistahs Jammin' in it's planning stages but I had no interest in going. I thought "why should I go with all these women I didn't even know" not to mention... I am Jamaican.

    I thought about going ony when I came to a crossroad where I thought I needed time to look at me, and because I heard of all the wonderful things others had to say. So, I decided to go. Thinking back, it was the best thing I ever did for me. It has changed me in so many ways. The suppressed me? Not anymore. I think of my new sistahs everyday. They are my family always - Sistahs bonded forever.

    Mae, New Haven, CT
  • A thought drops like a pebble in a never-ending stream. Ripples follow. Such is the effect of a solitary thought that falls into one's spirit. In my case, however, the ripples became waves.

    Sitting at my desk at work, one mid-June morning, wondering and worrying and wandering in my mind as to how I would celebrate my 40th birthday on July 10, since my original plans had to be abandoned, the thought suddenly came to me to contact Kay and find out if it was too late to register for the 9th Sistahs Jammin' event a few weeks away. An e-mail led to online chats, and then to a meeting in person, and before I knew it, I had a room booked two weeks before my weekend arrival, all without any hitches or glitches. For me, that was confirmation that the universe wanted me to be there. And what an awesome and amazing experience it was with the fabulous, fierce, and fearless sistrens of Sistahs Jammin' in the superb setting of the Rose Hall Hilton Resort & Spa in Montego Bay!

    Looking back, I cannot think of a more fitting way to have celebrated my 40th birthday weekend. I made new friends in Star, Wanda, April, and Jackie; soaked up the gorgeous scenery; connected with the Creator and Nature in our thankful circle on the beach after sunrise, with the music of the waves accompanying our voices; was satisfied with sumptuous meals and excellent service; grooved to the pulsating beats of reggae, hip-hop and soca at Mo’Bay’s best seafood, bar, and nightclub on the waterfront, Pier One; conquered my fear of heights tubing with Wanda at the Resort’s Waterpark; and dined in elegant style at the Three Palms restaurant. De Amaretto Reef did baad! In the final moments, when the last hug had been exchanged, and goodbye uttered, it dawned on me, like yet another pebble falling into the pool of my thoughts, that it wasn’t the end, although it had felt like it at the bittersweet time. I had been rejuvenated and restored to enter a new phase of my life journey, borne by the waves of what had been an incredible experience.

    Now, I cherish the memories, until the next Sistahs Jammin’. Thanks, Kay, for introducing and initiating me into the strength of this sisterhood.

    One love.
    Nadine, SJ 2009

  • Well, I'm writing about a Spiritual event that happened to me on the trip and once I got back home.  I had picked  a gratitude rock from a group of rocks that had been brought back from an excursion for me and others who wasn't able participate,  to choose from.

    Seven days after returning home, I was sitting in my bed rubbing my gratitude rock and having my daily morning prayer, when I noticed that my gratitude rock was in the shape  of "MY" right foot. You can actually see the heel, arch and toe area in the rock. I know the sistahs that attended this past year event, can remember how my feet was swollen and borthering me. The rock not  only was in the shape of "MY" foot, but it had a crease in it. I've had two ankle surgeries in this foot. The crease is in the same area where my incision is at. I also have three pins in the top of  my foot and believe it or not, there is a hole in the  top of this rock.  I AM TRULY GRATEFUL!!!  AND I BELIEVE!!!

    This was just an awesome retreat. Can't wait to  return next year.

    Opal, CA
  • I may as well take this time to give you my most memorable moments jammin' this year. It started out being picked up at the airport with our own personal 'SIGN' and driver and seeing Star and Kay waiting was GREAT!!! I felt really special. My next moment was going to the Rastafarin Community. That was a very spritual day for me. I felt so comfortable that day with my life AND body. My body felt as though it had been set free through the spirits. Learning how to eat the coconut and what it represented was a good thang TOO:>) That day I also became aka Chocolate:>) Another fun thing was the day when we all got up and did the slide at lunch. That was fun!!! I also enjoyed going to Negril for the Hedonism II dinner show. Seeing us in our colorful togas and embracing something totally different was invigorating. I really felt grown and sexy that night. I could go on and on, because I enjoyed all my time with my sistahs jammin. From the morning ritual of walking into the ocean to the evening dinners and conversations. It is a real blessing to be in the presence of such inspirational, loving, caring and fun women from all walks of life. When I'm with my sistahs I KNOW that everything is going to be alright. Well Star, I hope this helps. Just typing this brought back such sweet memories. Thanks for the memories, Girlfriend:>) And thanks for being YOU.
     
    Love Ya!
    Opal AKA Chocolate, CA

  • I am writing this note to let you know what exactly sistahs Jam-min in Jamaica means to me. I was one of the first group to take the journey five years ago. A journey that I have never forgotten. The memories that I brought back with me are priceless. The things I learned about myself and others changed my life for the best. The workshops worked wonders on my relationships, the exercise, was a freeing experience-swinging our bodies in the sun with a balmy breeze blowing across our temples allowed me to be me. I left Jamaica knowing that I was special, a phenomenal woman. We were family, I had all my sisters with me!!! There were no perpetrator there. Just real love and acceptance. Those precious sisters are still in my life, today!!

    Thank you for acting on the vision God gave you,

    Your sis.

    Pamela, CT

  • Dear Beautiful Black Queen,

    You are the moon and the stars. You shine like the sun on a hot summer's day. I love everything about you; from the top of your fully white twists, to the bottom of your ashy little toes. I have been in love with you for at least a year now-and it feels wonderful. You are like the window of reality in my fantasy world and my fantasy in an ever changing world of chaos and despair. You make me realize that I AM LOVED and I have an endless amount of UNCONDITIONAL love for you. I was lost until I found you. I am nothing without you. I thank God for you. Mostly, I am in love with you because you finally allow me to be.
    Thank you.

    Love Eternally,
    Me

    Pinkie, Georgia