Louise Bennett-Coverley, OM, OJ, MBE was a Jamaican poet, folklorist, and cultural icon whose work championed the use of Jamaican Patois in literature. Affectionately known as "Miss Lou," she became a beloved figure known for her witty, insightful poetry and performances that celebrated the lives, struggles, and humor of ordinary Jamaicans. Educated at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, Miss Lou worked to establish the validity of local languages for literary expression, defying colonial norms that often dismissed the language as inferior. Her poetry collections, including Jamaica Labrish and Anancy and Miss Lou, are celebrated for their clever social commentary and vibrant storytelling. In addition to her literary achievements, Miss Lou was a popular broadcaster and television host. Her radio program, The Lou and Ranny Show and her TV series, Ring Ding connected her with generations of Jamaicans, teaching children the value of their heritage and the richness of Jamaican folklore through storytelling and music. Throughout her life, Louise Bennett-Coverley received numerous honors, including the Order of Jamaica (OJ) and the Norman Manley Award for Excellence, solidifying her status as one of Jamaica's greatest cultural ambassadors. Miss Lou’s legacy continues to inspire, reminding the world of the strength and beauty of Jamaican identity and oral traditions. She passed away on July 26, 2006.