Layla Gibbons, Manager, and Marketing Expert a.k.a Don Dada

Written by Crispy Christey

Layla Gibbons manager and marketing expert a.k.a as Don Dada's MOTHER

The exclusive interview with Layla Gibbons began with Crispy Christey asking, "Can you share how you came up with Don Dada's name?"

Layla Gibbons: "Certainly, Crispy. His name, Menelik Nesta Gibbons, was inspired by the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, with 'Nesta' paying homage to Robert Nesta Marley. The name Menelik Nesta stems from a promise I made to Bob Marley after a chance encounter in 1980 during Zimbabwe's independence celebrations."

In the interview with Layla, we asked her to elaborate on that encounter with Bob Marley.

Layla Gibbons describes her encounter with Robert Nesta Marley: "In 1980, I met Bob Marley in Harare, Zimbabwe, without knowing his fame. Our brief conversation centered on African history, particularly the Kingdom of Abyssinia. He encouraged me to delve into our shared history and, if I had a son, to name him after him. This conversation laid the foundation for my commitment to learn and preserve our history."

Crispy Christey curiously asked what it was like speaking to him before realizing his popularity.

Layla Gibbons proceeded to explain her initial meeting with Bob Marley: "Despite not knowing his fame at the time, the intensity and passion in his words left a lasting impact. Only after the inauguration did I discover his significance. His gift of the single 'Zimbabwe' holds sentimental value, and Bob Marley's influence on integrating Jamaican culture into Zimbabwe is still evident today."

We at Jamweekly Magazine asked Layla what she learned from the conversation she had with Robert Nesta Marley.

Layla Gibbons spoke sincerely about Bob Marley's message about the importance of learning, preserving, and passing down our history resonated deeply. "The subsequent research led me to understand the significance of our heritage, not just as Africans but as descendants within the diaspora."

Crispy Christey asked Layla why she felt it was important to keep the promise she made to Robert Nesta Marley.

Layla spoke about keeping the promise that was a commitment to honoring our history and heritage. It became clear that passing down this knowledge is crucial for current and future generations, fostering a sense of identity and unity among African descendants worldwide.

We at Jamweekly Magazine thank you, Layla Gibbons, for sharing this remarkable story. It's a testament to the enduring impact of meaningful encounters and the importance of preserving our cultural legacy. We look forward to featuring this side story in Jamweekly Magazine.